What do the results mean? If your results show higher than normal levels of GGT, it may be a sign of liver damage. The damage may be due to one of the following conditions: The results can’t show which condition you have, but it can help show how much liver damage you have. Usually, the … Read more
What is a respiratory pathogens (RP) panel? A respiratory pathogens (RP) panel checks for pathogens in the respiratory tract. A pathogen is a virus, bacteria, or other organism that causes an illness. Your respiratory tract is made up of parts of the body involved in breathing. This includes your lungs, nose, and throat. There are … Read more
What is a bone density scan? A bone density scan, also known as a DEXA scan, is a type of low-dose x-ray test that measures calcium and other minerals in your bones. The measurement helps show the strength and thickness (known as bone density or mass) of your bones. Most people’s bones become thinner as … Read more
What do the results mean? Your sample will be placed on a slide and treated with the Gram stain. A laboratory professional will examine the slide under a microscope. If no bacteria were found, it means you probably don’t have a bacterial infection or there weren’t enough bacteria in the sample. If bacteria were found, … Read more
What is an allergy skin test? An allergy is an overreaction, also known as a hypersensitivity, of the body’s immune system. Normally, your immune system works to fight off foreign substances like viruses and bacteria. When you have an allergy, your immune system treats a harmless substance, like dust or pollen, as a threat. To … Read more
What is a salicylates level test? This test measures the amount of salicylates in the blood. Salicylates are a type of drug found in many over-the-counter and prescription medicines. Aspirin is the most common type of salicylate. Popular brand name aspirins include Bayer and Ecotrin. Aspirin and other salicylates are most often used to reduce … Read more
What is an acetaminophen level test? This test measures the amount of acetaminophen in the blood. Acetaminophen is one of the most common medicines used in over-the-counter pain relievers and fever reducers. It is found in more than 200 brand name medicines. These include Tylenol, Excedrin, Nyquil, and Paracetamol, which is commonly found outside the … Read more
What is an anoscopy? An anoscopy is a procedure that uses a small tube called an anoscope to view the lining of your anus and rectum. A related procedure called high resolution anoscopy uses a special magnifying device called a colposcope along with an anoscope to view these areas. The anus is the opening of … Read more
What is a complement blood test? A complement blood test measures the amount or activity of complement proteins in the blood. Complement proteins are part of the complement system. This system is made up of a group of proteins that work with the immune system to identify and fight disease-causing substances like viruses and bacteria. … Read more
What is amniocentesis? Amniocentesis is a test for pregnant women that looks at a sample of amniotic fluid. Amniotic fluid is a pale, yellow liquid that surrounds and protects an unborn baby throughout pregnancy. The fluid contains cells that provide important information about your unborn baby’s health. The information may include whether your baby has … Read more