Blood test
A laboratory analysis of blood that measures cells, chemicals, proteins, or other substances to assess health, diagnose disease, or monitor treatment.
Complete blood count: A blood test that counts red cells, white cells, and platelets and measures related features. It is one of the most common panels for assessing blood cells and screening for illness.
Venipuncture: The insertion of a needle into a vein to collect blood or administer treatment. It is the usual method for collecting samples for laboratory testing.
Lipid profile: A set of blood measurements, commonly including cholesterol and triglycerides, used to assess lipid-related cardiovascular risk. It helps estimate cardiovascular risk and guide prevention or treatment.
Urinalysis: Laboratory examination of urine to detect substances, cells, and signs of disease. It samples waste filtered by the kidneys rather than substances measured directly in blood.
Medical diagnosis: The identification of a disease or condition from clinical evidence. Blood results contribute evidence but usually require interpretation alongside symptoms and examination.
Blood chemistry: Laboratory measurement of dissolved chemicals in blood, including electrolytes, glucose, and metabolic products. These measurements show how organs and metabolic systems are functioning.
Capillary blood sampling: Collection of a small blood sample from a fingertip or heel puncture. It offers an alternative to venous collection for selected tests and settings.
Hemoglobin A1c: A blood test that estimates average blood glucose over roughly the preceding two to three months. It is used to diagnose and monitor diabetes over time.
Imaging test: A diagnostic procedure that creates images of internal structures using techniques such as ultrasound, X-rays, or MRI. Imaging shows anatomy, while blood tests measure circulating cells and substances.
False positive: A test result that indicates a condition is present when it is actually absent. Unexpected abnormal blood results can trigger follow-up even without the suspected disease.