Antenatal Profile Comprehensive near me in Mohali
Understanding Antenatal Profile Comprehensive in Mohali
What is Antenatal Profile Comprehensive in Mohali?
An Antenatal Profile Comprehensive is tailored to monitor the health of both the pregnant woman and the growing baby. This profile helps in the early detection and management of pregnancy complications, while also assessing the risk of infections, ensuring the well-being of both. It is widely available at an affordable price in Mohali with Tata 1mg labs.
An Antenatal Profile Comprehensive contains 41 tests including complete blood count (CBC) to detect anemia, blood group and Rh factor to check for Rh factor compatibility, Hb HPLC test to detect blood disorders, such as thalassemia and sickle cell disease, blood sugar levels for gestational diabetes, thyroid function for optimal thyroid health, and specific screenings for infectious diseases like HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and syphilis. Early detection of these illnesses through this profile allows for timely interventions, ensuring comprehensive prenatal care for a healthy pregnancy. Usually overnight fasting (8-12 hours) is required before going for a Antenatal Profile Comprehensive test. However, drinking water is acceptable.
What does Antenatal Profile Comprehensive measure?
Contains 48 testsAn ANC profile is recommended for pregnant women, particularly during the first trimester. This profile includes tests to detect maternal conditions that may affect fetal development. It helps to detect and address potential health risks to minimize complications and safeguard the health of the expecting mother and child.
Prenatal testing includes blood tests, such as complete blood count (CBC), hemoglobin, blood group, and Rh factor, to assess overall health and check for anemia, Rh factor incompatibility, and hemoglobin disorders. Other tests in this profile, such as VDRL, HIV, and HBsAg tests, help identify infections that can be transmitted from a mother to her unborn baby, such as syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis B. This profile also includes blood sugar tests to screen for gestational diabetes, a thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) test that helps screen for thyroid-related health complications, and urine examination to detect urinary tract infections (UTIs), protein in the urine (a sign of gestational diabetes or preeclampsia), and other kidney-related issues in the expecting mother.
Hb HPLC (Hb Variants Estimation by HPLC)
An Hb HPLC (Hb Variants Estimation by HPLC) test is used to identify and quantify different types of hemoglobin in the blood to diagnose and monitor specific blood disorders. Different types of hemoglobin are Adult type (HbA2), Fetal type (HbF), Hemoglobin S (HbS), Hemoglobin C (HbC), and Hemoglobin E (HbE), etc.
Normal types of hemoglobin include:
- Hemoglobin (Hgb) A: The most common type of hemoglobin in healthy adults
- Hemoglobin (Hgb) F: Fetal hemoglobin, which is found in unborn babies and newborns. HgbF is replaced by HgbA shortly after birth.
A deranged level of HgbA or HgbF might indicate certain types of anemia.
Abnormal types of hemoglobin include:
- Hemoglobin (Hgb) S: This type of hemoglobin is found in sickle cell anemia, an inherited disorder that causes the body to make stiff, sickle-shaped red blood cells. Sickle cells can get stuck in the blood vessels, causing severe pain, long-term infections, and other complications.
- Hemoglobin (Hgb) C: This type of hemoglobin is associated with hemolytic anemia that develops when your red blood cells are destroyed more easily than normal red blood cells or have a shorter life span than normal red blood cells.
- Hemoglobin (Hgb) E: This type of hemoglobin is mainly found in people of Southeast Asian descent and may be associated with mild anemia or no symptoms.
- Hemoglobin (Hgb) D: Hb D disease (HbDD) is characterized by mild hemolytic anemia and mild to moderate splenomegaly. Hb D Punjab occurs with the most significant prevalence in Gujarat and Sikhs of Punjab.
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CBC (Complete Blood Count)
The CBC (Complete Blood Count) test evaluates red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs}, and platelets. Each of these blood cells performs essential functions–RBCs carry oxygen from your lungs to the various body parts, WBCs help fight infections and other diseases, and platelets help your blood to clot–so determining their levels can provide significant health information. A CBC test also determines the hemoglobin level, a protein in RBC that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of your body. Evaluating all these components together can provide important information about your overall health.
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Differential Leukocyte Count
- Differential Neutrophil Count
- Differential Lymphocyte Count
- Differential Monocyte Count
- Differential Eosinophil Count
- Differential Basophil Count
There are five types of WBCs: neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils. A Differential Leukocyte Count test measures the percentage of each type of WBC in the blood. Leukocytes or WBCs are produced in the bone marrow and defend the body against infections and diseases. Each type of WBC plays a unique role to protect against infections and is present in different numbers.
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Red Blood Cell Count
The Red Blood Cell Count test measures the total number of red blood cells in your blood. RBCs are the most abundant cells in the blood with an average lifespan of 120 days. These cells are produced in the bone marrow and destroyed in the spleen or liver. Their primary function is to help carry oxygen from the lungs to different body parts. The normal range of RBC count can vary depending on age, gender, and the equipment and methods used for testing.
Hb (Hemoglobin)
An Hb (Hemoglobin) test measures the concentration of hemoglobin protein in your blood. Hemoglobin is made up of iron and globulin proteins. It is an essential part of RBCs and is critical for oxygen transfer from the lungs to all body tissues. Most blood cells, including RBCs, are produced regularly in your bone marrow. The Hb test is a fundamental part of a complete blood count (CBC) and is used to monitor blood health, diagnose various blood disorders, and assess your response to treatments if needed.
Platelet Count
The Platelet Count test measures the average number of platelets in the blood. Platelets are disk-shaped tiny cells originating from large cells known as megakaryocytes, which are found in the bone marrow. After the platelets are formed, they are released into the blood circulation. Their average life span is 7-10 days.
Platelets help stop the bleeding, whenever there is an injury or trauma to a tissue or blood vessel, by adhering and accumulating at the injury site and releasing chemical compounds that stimulate the gathering of more platelets. A loose platelet plug is formed at the site of injury and this process is known as primary hemostasis. These activated platelets support the coagulation pathway that involves a series of steps, including the sequential activation of clotting factors; this process is known as secondary hemostasis. After this step, there is a formation of fibrin strands that form a mesh incorporated into and around the platelet plug. This mesh strengthens and stabilizes the blood clot so that it remains in place until the injury heals. After healing, other factors come into play and break the clot down so that it gets removed. In case the platelets are not sufficient in number or not functioning properly, a stable clot might not form. These unstable clots can result in an increased risk of excessive bleeding.
Total Leukocyte Count
The Total Leukocyte Count test measures the numbers of all types of leukocytes, namely neutrophil, lymphocyte, monocyte, eosinophil, and basophil, in your blood. Leukocytes or WBCs are an essential part of our immune system. These cells are produced in the bone marrow and defend the body against infections and diseases. Each type of WBC plays a unique role to protect against infections and is present in different numbers.
Hematocrit
The Hematocrit test measures the proportion of red blood cells (RBCs) in your blood as a percentage of the total blood volume. It is a crucial part of a complete blood count (CBC) and helps in assessing your blood health. RBCs are responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to different parts of the body. The hematocrit test provides valuable information about your blood's oxygen-carrying capacity.
Higher-than-normal amounts of RBCs produced by the bone marrow can cause the hematocrit to increase, leading to increased blood density and slow blood flow. On the other hand, lower-than-normal hematocrit can be caused by low production of RBCs, reduced lifespan of RBCs in circulation, or excessive bleeding, leading to a reduced amount of oxygen being transported by RBCs. Monitoring your hematocrit levels is essential for diagnosing and managing various blood-related disorders.
Mean Corpuscular Volume
The Mean Corpuscular Volume test measures the average size of your red blood cells, which carry oxygen through your body. This test tells whether your RBCs are of average size and volume or whether they are bigger or smaller.
Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin
An MCH test measures the average amount of hemoglobin in a single red blood cell (RBC). Hemoglobin is an iron-containing protein in RBCs, and its major function is to transport oxygen from the lungs to all body parts. This test provides information about how much oxygen is being delivered to the body by a certain number of RBCs.
Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration
An MCHC test measures the average amount of hemoglobin in a given volume of RBCs. MCHC is calculated by dividing the amount of hemoglobin by hematocrit (volume of blood made up of RBCs) and then multiplying it by 100.
Absolute Leucocyte Count
- Absolute Eosinophil Count
- Absolute Neutrophil Count
- Absolute Basophil Count
- Absolute Lymphocyte Count
- Absolute Monocyte Count
The Absolute Leucocyte Count test measures the total number of white blood cells (leucocytes) in the given volume of blood. It examines different types of white blood cells such as neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, basophils and eosinophils. These cells tell about the status of the immune system and its ability to fight off infections and other conditions like inflammation, allergies, bone marrow disorders etc.
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Mean Platelet Volume
An MPV test measures the average size of the platelets in your blood. Platelets are disk-shaped tiny cells originating from large cells known as megakaryocytes, which are found in the bone marrow. After the platelets are formed, they are released into the blood circulation. Their average life span is 7-10 days.
Platelets help stop bleeding whenever there is an injury or trauma to a tissue or blood vessel by adhering and accumulating at the injury site, and by releasing chemical compounds that stimulate the gathering of more platelets. After these steps, a loose platelet plug is formed at the site of injury, and this process is known as primary hemostasis. These activated platelets support the coagulation pathway that involves a series of steps including the sequential activation of clotting factors; this process is known as secondary hemostasis. After this, there is a formation of fibrin strands that form a mesh incorporated into and around the platelet plug. This mesh strengthens and stabilizes the blood clot so that it remains in place until the injury heals. After healing, other factors come into play and break the clot down so that it gets removed. In case the platelets are not sufficient in number or are not functioning properly, a stable clot might not form. These unstable clots can result in an increased risk of excessive bleeding.
PDW
The PDW test reflects variability in platelet size, and is considered a marker of platelet function and activation (clot formation in case of an injury). This marker can give you additional information about your platelets and the cause of a high or low platelet count. Larger platelets are usually younger platelets that have been recently released from the bone marrow, while smaller platelets may be older and have been in circulation for a few days. Higher PDW values reflect a larger range of platelet size, which may result from increased activation, destruction and consumption of platelets.
RDW CV
The RDW CV test which is part of red cell indices, helps identify characteristics of red blood cells. RDW (red cell distribution width) measures the variations in the sizes of red blood cells, indicating how much they differ from each other in a blood sample. RDW is expressed as RDW-CV, a coefficient of variation. A higher RDW may suggest more variation in red cell sizes, while a lower RDW indicates more uniform red cell sizes.
FBS (Fasting Blood Sugar)
A fasting blood sugar test measures the glucose level in the body under overnight fasting conditions. Glucose serves as the body's energy currency and is broken down through metabolism to produce energy. Hormones and enzymes produced by the liver and pancreas control this process. The hormone insulin, produced by the pancreas, regulates blood glucose levels. When these levels are high, such as after a meal, insulin is secreted to transport glucose into cells for energy production. Elevated glucose levels in the body after fasting may indicate a risk of developing prediabetes or diabetes, which can be of two types- Type 1, caused by little or no insulin production, and Type 2, caused by insulin resistance or decreased insulin production.
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VDRL-RPR (Rapid Plasma Reagin)
The VDRL-RPR (Rapid Plasma Reagin) test looks for antibodies (specific proteins) that react to syphilis in the blood. This means the test doesn't find the actual bacteria that cause syphilis. Instead, it looks for antibodies against substances given off by cells that have been harmed by the bacteria. Antibodies are a specific type of protein produced by your immune system to fight off any invaders, such as bacteria, viruses, or toxins. Detecting these antibodies can help your doctors know if you have syphilis. Untreated syphilis can spread to your eyes, blood vessels, heart, and brain. But it can be easily cured if treated in the early stages.
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TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Ultrasensitive
The TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Ultrasensitive test measures the levels of TSH hormone in the blood. TSH is produced by the pituitary gland located in the brain. Its function is to stimulate and regulate the functioning of the thyroid gland. It signals the thyroid gland to increase or decrease the production of thyroid hormones T3 and T4 (essential for regulating our body’s metabolism, temperature, heart rate, and growth) when their levels are low or high, respectively. Therefore, when the levels of T3 & T4 decrease, the pituitary gland is stimulated to release TSH. This high TSH level, in turn, stimulates the thyroid gland to release more thyroid hormones (T3 & T4); the vice-versa happens when the levels of thyroid hormones increase.
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Blood Group ABO & RH Factor Test
The Blood Group ABO & RH Factor Test determines your blood type and Rh factor. Healthcare providers can ensure compatibility and prevent adverse reactions during medical interventions by identifying an individual's blood type and Rh factor. This test is essential for various medical procedures, including blood transfusions, organ transplants, and prenatal care.
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HIV Combo (Antigen And Antibody) Test
An HIV Combo (Antigen And Antibody) Test simultaneously detects HIV p24 antigen and antibodies associated with HIV 1 & 2. The HIV p24 antigen is the most abundant HIV protein and its detection is used clinically to diagnose an HIV infection early on since HIV-specific antibodies are not detectable in a very recently acquired infection. HIV-1 was discovered first and is the most widespread, whereas HIV-2 is more than 55% genetically different from HIV-1. The transmission rate of HIV-2 is also slower than HIV-1.
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Urine R/M (Urine Routine & Microscopy)
The Urine R/M (Urine Routine & Microscopy) test involves gross, chemical, and microscopic evaluation of the urine sample.
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Gross examination: It involves visually inspecting the urine sample for color and appearance. Typically, the urine color ranges from colorless or pale yellow to deep amber, depending on the urine’s concentration. Things such as medications, supplements, and some foods such as beetroot can affect the color of your urine. However, unusual urine color can also be a sign of disease.
In appearance, the urine sample may be clear or cloudy. A clear appearance is indicative of healthy urine. However, the presence of red blood cells, white blood cells, bacteria, etc., may result in cloudy urine, indicating conditions such as dehydration, UTIs, kidney stones, etc. Some other factors, such as sperm and skin cells, may also result in a cloudy appearance but are harmless.
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Chemical examination: It examines the chemical nature of the urine sample using special test strips called dipsticks. These test strips are dipped into the urine sample and change color when they come in contact with specific substances. The degree of color change estimates the amount of the substance present. Some common things detected include protein, urine pH, ketones, glucose, specific gravity, blood, bilirubin, nitrites, and urobilinogen.
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Microscopic examination: This involves the analysis of the urine sample under the microscope for pus cells, red blood cells, casts, crystals, bacteria, yeast. and other constituents.
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Urobilinogen
The Urobilinogen test measures the amount of urobilinogen present in the urine. Urobilinogen is a substance formed from the breakdown of bilirubin, a by-product of old red blood cells processed by the liver. This test plays a key role in assessing liver function and detecting liver diseases.
Under normal circumstances, the liver converts bilirubin into urobilinogen. Some of this urobilinogen is reabsorbed into the blood, excreted by the kidneys, and then eliminated from the body through urine. However, when liver function is impaired, the amount of urobilinogen in the urine can change. Hence, the Urobilinogen test serves as an important indicator of abnormalities such as liver disease or blockage of the bile ducts.
Ketone
The Ketone test measures the presence of ketone bodies in the urine, which are metabolic byproducts produced when the body breaks down fat for energy in the absence of sufficient carbohydrates. This process, known as ketosis, typically occurs during states such as prolonged fasting, strict low-carbohydrate diets, or in certain medical conditions like uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, particularly type 1 diabetes. In diabetes, for instance, the test can help identify diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a serious complication characterized by high levels of ketones that can lead to an acid-base imbalance in the blood. The presence of ketones in the urine can be an important marker for monitoring metabolic states and managing conditions that affect blood sugar levels.
Nitrite
The Nitrite test measures the presence of nitrites in the urine sample. Nitrites are chemicals formed by the conversion of nitrates by certain bacteria. Under normal conditions, urine does not contain nitrites. However, when bacteria that cause urinary tract infections (UTIs) are present, they convert nitrates (which are normally found in the urine) into nitrites. Thus, the presence of nitrites in urine is an indication of a bacterial infection, making the Nitrite test a key tool in diagnosing UTIs.
Colour
The urine colour test primarily measures the concentration and colour of urine to provide insights into an individual’s overall health. It assesses hydration status, with clear to light yellow urine indicating good hydration and darker shades suggesting dehydration. It can also detect urinary tract infections (UTIs) through unusual colours like cloudy or reddish urine, signaling the presence of blood or pus. Abnormal urine colours, such as dark brown or amber, may indicate liver conditions like hepatitis or cirrhosis, while pink, red, or brown urine can reveal the presence of blood, signaling kidney issues, trauma, or potential malignancies. The test can reflect dietary influences and supplement intake, with certain foods and vitamins causing colour changes. It can also highlight metabolic disorders, such as porphyria, which may cause purple urine. Additionally, medication effects and potential exposure to toxins can be inferred from changes in urine colour, making this test a comprehensive indicator of overall health and potential underlying conditions.
Appearance
The urine appearance test measures:
Colour: The urine colour indicates the presence of substances like bilirubin, blood, or medications in the urine, providing clues about liver function, hydration levels, or underlying health issues.
Clarity: The urine clarity assesses the transparency of urine, which can reveal the presence of cells, proteins, or other particles that may indicate infections or kidney disease.
Odor: The urine odor detects abnormal smells that may indicate infections or metabolic disorders affecting the urinary system.
By examining these aspects, doctors can gain insights into hydration status, kidney function, and potential health conditions affecting the urinary tract. This comprehensive evaluation aids in timely diagnosis and management of potential urinary tract problems.
Specific Gravity
The urine Specific Gravity test measures the concentration of solutes in the urine, reflecting the kidneys' ability to concentrate or dilute the urine in response to varying hydration levels. By comparing the density of urine to that of water, the test provides insights into the balance of fluids and substances like salts, waste products, and other solutes. This test is important because it helps diagnose and monitor various medical conditions, including dehydration, kidney disease, diabetes insipidus, and other disorders affecting kidney function, enabling timely and appropriate medical interventions.
Pus Cell
The pus cells test measures the presence and quantity of pus cells in urine samples. This test helps identify urinary tract infections (UTIs) and other inflammatory conditions of the urinary tract. Doctors perform this test to promptly diagnose and manage urinary tract-related disorders, ensuring timely treatment and management.
Epithelial Cell
The Epithelial Cell test measures the presence and quantity of epithelial cells shed into the urine. This test helps doctors understand urinary tract health by identifying abnormalities such as infections, inflammation, or damage to kidney tubules. Different types of epithelial cells in urine, including squamous, transitional, and renal tubular epithelial cells, provide specific insights into the nature and location of urinary tract issues. This test aids in diagnosing conditions affecting the urinary system and guides appropriate treatment strategies based on the findings.
Casts
The urinary cast test measures the presence, and quantity of casts in a urine sample. These casts are cylindrical structures formed from coagulated proteins and cells within the kidney's tubules. By identifying and quantifying the different types of casts, such as red blood cell casts, white blood cell casts, granular casts, and hyaline casts, the test provides valuable insights into kidney health. The presence of specific types of casts can indicate underlying kidney conditions, such as glomerulonephritis, kidney infections, acute tubular necrosis, and chronic kidney disease. This test helps doctors diagnose, monitor, and manage kidney-related issues, guiding appropriate medical interventions and treatments.
Crystals
The Crystals test measures the presence, type, and quantity of crystals in a urine sample. Crystals can form from various salts and minerals in the urine, and their identification helps diagnose underlying conditions such as kidney stones, urinary tract infections, or metabolic disorders. The test provides insights into potential urinary tract issues by detecting specific types of crystals, such as calcium oxalate, uric acid, or struvite crystals. By analyzing the crystals, doctors can determine the severity of the condition, monitor the effectiveness of treatment, and guide preventive measures to maintain optimal urinary tract health.
Protein Urine
The Protein Urine test detects the presence of proteins in the urine sample. Essential proteins are typically retained in the blood by healthy kidneys, but their presence in urine can indicate kidney damage or dysfunction. Conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and certain kidney diseases can cause increased protein leakage into the urine. This test is crucial for assessing kidney health and detecting abnormalities that may require further investigation or intervention.
Ph for Urine
The Ph for Urine primarily measures the acidity or alkalinity of urine by assessing the balance of hydrogen ions in the urine. It provides insights into an individual’s metabolic and kidney function, with acidic urine suggesting conditions like metabolic or respiratory acidosis, and alkaline urine indicating potential metabolic or respiratory alkalosis. The test can also reflect dietary influences, such as high protein diets may lead to acidic urine, while fruit-rich diets may result in alkaline urine. Abnormal pH levels can indicate conditions such as urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and certain metabolic disorders. Additionally, the test helps to monitor the impact of medications and supplements on urine pH, making it a valuable tool for comprehensive health assessment and diagnosis.
Urine Glucose
The Urine Glucose test measures the presence or absence of glucose in the urine sample. Normally, glucose is filtered out by the kidneys and reabsorbed into the blood, so it should not be detectable in the urine. When glucose appears in the urine, it indicates that blood glucose levels may be elevated beyond the kidneys' reabsorption capacity.
Urine glucose is a useful test to check how well your body is managing glucose levels and kidney function. It helps diagnose and monitor diabetes, provides insight into blood sugar control, and can indicate potential issues with kidney function.
Yeast
The urine yeast test measures the presence of yeast cells in the urine sample. The presence of yeast cells can indicate an infection or an imbalance in the urinary tract's natural microbial environment. Yeast is a type of fungus that naturally resides in small amounts on the skin, in the mouth, and in the intestines. However, when it overgrows, it can cause infections, such as yeast infections in the urinary tract which require medical attention. Therefore this test is crucial for identifying fungal infections, particularly those caused by Candida species, and plays a vital role in guiding appropriate treatment strategies.
Red Blood Cells
The Red Blood Cells test measures the presence and amount of red blood cells (RBCs) in a urine sample. The primary purpose of the test is to detect hematuria, a condition characterized by the presence of blood in the urine. Hematuria can be either visible (gross hematuria) or invisible to the naked eye (microscopic hematuria), and the RBC Urine Test is capable of detecting both. It serves as an early indicator of various underlying health conditions ranging from urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney stones, and kidney disease, to more serious conditions such as bladder cancer or trauma to the urinary tract. Early identification of hematuria through the RBC Urine Test can prompt timely treatment and management of these conditions, which can significantly improve patient outcomes and prevent complications.
Leucocyte Esterase
The Leucocyte Esterase test measures the presence of leukocyte esterase (an enzyme released by white blood cells) in urine samples, which are typically present when there is an infection or inflammation in the urinary tract. Common conditions associated with elevated leukocyte esterase levels include urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney infections (pyelonephritis), and interstitial cystitis. When the body's immune system detects pathogens such as bacteria, it sends white blood cells to the affected area to combat the infection, leading to an increase in leukocyte esterase levels in the urine. Thus, the Leucocyte Esterase test serves as a marker for these underlying issues ensuring early detection and appropriate treatment.
Blood
The Blood test measures the presence of blood in the urine sample, indicating potential issues within the urinary system or kidneys. This test is crucial for diagnosing conditions such as hematuria, urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney stones, kidney disease, or even certain cancers that can cause bleeding in the urinary tract.
Depending on whether the blood is visible to the naked eye (macroscopic hematuria) or only detectable under a microscope (microscopic hematuria), doctors can assess the severity and potential causes of the bleeding. By analyzing the presence of blood in the urine sample, doctors can determine the appropriate course of treatment and management, ensuring timely intervention to address underlying health concerns affecting urinary tract and kidney function.
Bacteria
The Bacteria test measures the presence and amount of bacteria in the urine. Normally, urine is sterile, but the presence of bacteria indicates an infection in the urinary system. This test helps diagnose UTIs, bladder infections, and other related conditions, guiding appropriate treatment plans.
Bilirubin
The Bilirubin test measures the levels of bilirubin present in the urine. Bilirubin is a by-product of the breakdown of old red blood cells, processed by the liver. This test is crucial in assessing liver function and detecting liver diseases.
Normally, the liver converts bilirubin into a form that can be excreted into bile and eventually eliminated from the body. When liver function is impaired, the amount of bilirubin in the urine can change, serving as an important indicator of abnormalities such as liver disease or bile duct blockage.
Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Antibody
The Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Antibody test determines the status of current hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection or past HCV infection that has been resolved. This test, therefore, helps your doctor to guide an appropriate treatment plan. HCV causes liver inflammation and is classified into acute hepatitis infection and chronic hepatitis infection.
- Acute hepatitis C: This occurs in the first six months after exposure to the hepatitis C virus. In the early stage of the infection, acute hepatitis C is mild and may cause no symptoms. For this reason, most people do not know they have this infection.
- Chronic hepatitis C: If your body is unable to fight off the virus, you can develop a chronic hepatitis C infection. Progression from acute to chronic hepatitis C is common, occurring in about 75-85% of patients. Detecting chronic hepatitis C at the early stage is important to prevent future complications, such as liver failure, and initiate effective treatment.
The Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Antibody test is used for screening for anti-HCV antibodies. A reactive result needs to be confirmed by other more specific NAT/ nucleic acid tests before final diagnosis.
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Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg)
The Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) test detects the presence of a specific protein on the surface of the Hepatitis B virus (HBV) in the bloodstream. This protein, HBsAg, serves as a crucial marker for identifying HBV infection. This is a screening test and the diagnosis of any reactive HBsAg result relies on additional supplemental tests like anti-HBs antibody and total anti-HBc antibodies. Confirmation can be done using nucleic acid tests like HBV DNA by PCR. The Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) test is essential for identifying individuals who require medical intervention, such as antiviral therapy, and for implementing measures to prevent the spread of Hepatitis B virus to others.
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