Why do lab tests sometimes need repeating?
Lab tests sometimes need to be repeated to double-check results. This ensures accuracy, especially if the initial results were surprising or unclear. Problems with the original sample or errors during testing can also require a retest. Repeating tests helps monitor changes in a patient's condition or treatment.
What is the difference between a screening test and a diagnostic test?
A screening test detects health issues early, like mammograms for breast cancer or cholesterol tests for heart disease. A diagnostic test confirms or excludes a disease in symptomatic individuals, such as biopsies for cancer or MRI scans for brain tumours. Lab services in Kochi offer screening and diagnostic tests.
Can a blood test detect other specific conditions like heart, liver, or kidney problems?
Yes, blood tests can detect heart, liver, and kidney conditions. They measure cholesterol, triglycerides, and cardiac enzymes like troponin for heart problems. Liver function tests (LFTs) measure enzymes like ALT, AST, and bilirubin for liver health. Kidney function tests measure creatinine and BUN levels.
Can cancer be detected with a blood test?
Blood tests detect cancer by identifying abnormal protein or cell levels, like PSA for prostate cancer or CA-125 for ovarian cancer, and through CBCs that detect abnormal blood cells. However, they can't confirm cancer alone and are part of a larger diagnostic process with imaging and biopsies.
What does a routine blood test check for? What does routine lab work include?
Routine blood tests check health indicators like blood cells, electrolytes, and kidney and liver function by measuring cell counts, glucose, and enzyme levels. Routine lab work includes CBC, blood sugar, cholesterol, kidney and liver function tests, urine tests, BMP, CMP, thyroid function tests, and infection screenings.
How is a urine sample collected?
Collecting a urine sample is easy. You get a cup and instructions from the healthcare provider. After cleaning, you pee into the toilet and the cup midstream without touching it. Seal it and return it. This ensures a clean sample for accurate testing.
How is a blood sample collected?
A blood sample is collected through a simple process. First, the healthcare provider cleans the skin and ties a band around your arm. Then, they use a needle to draw blood from a vein. After enough blood is collected, they remove the needle and apply a bandage.
Are lab tests accurate?
Yes, lab tests are generally accurate. They are conducted by trained professionals using advanced equipment and stringent quality control measures. However, accuracy can depend on factors like sample quality, test type, and following preparation instructions. We are committed to providing accurate results through our lab services in Kochi at Aster Medcity.
Why are lab tests important?
Lab tests are important because they help diagnose health conditions, monitor diseases, and plan treatments. They provide accurate information about your health, which is essential for detecting issues early, tracking progress, and ensuring you get the right care.
What laboratory types do we have?
We have many specialised labs to provide complete diagnostic services. These include biochemistry, haematology, bacteriology, mycology, serology, histopathology, neuropathology, renal pathology, pulmonary pathology, haematopathology, bone pathology, onco pathology, microbiology, and a fully-equipped blood bank. Each lab focuses on specific tests for accurate and fast results.
