Medical laboratory tests are essential tools for diagnosing and monitoring health conditions. This guide from First Care Medical Lab helps you understand common laboratory tests and their importance.
Haematology Tests
Complete Blood Count (CBC) is the most common test, measuring red cells, white cells, haemoglobin, and platelets. It can detect anaemia, infections, and blood disorders. Genotype testing identifies HbAA, HbAS, HbSS patterns important for sickle cell disease.
Clinical Chemistry
These tests analyse chemicals in your blood. Blood sugar tests detect diabetes. Lipid profile checks cardiovascular risk. Kidney and liver function tests monitor organ health. Electrolytes assess body fluid balance.
Microbiology
Culture and sensitivity tests identify bacteria causing infections and determine which antibiotics are effective. Common samples include urine, stool, wound swabs, and sputum.
Serology
These tests detect antibodies and antigens in blood. Used for HIV screening, Hepatitis B & C testing, typhoid diagnosis, and other infectious disease detection.