Kroppsvätskeanalys

Kroppsvätskeanalys, or body fluid analysis, is a broad term encompassing the laboratory examination of various biological fluids produced by the human body. The purpose of such analysis is to aid in the diagnosis, monitoring, and management of diseases and conditions. Common body fluids analyzed include blood, urine, cerebrospinal fluid, synovial fluid, pleural fluid, peritoneal fluid, and amniotic fluid. Each fluid type has specific tests and interpretive guidelines tailored to its composition and the physiological context it represents.

Blood analysis is perhaps the most common, providing a wealth of information about a patient's health through tests like complete blood count (CBC), blood chemistry panels (e.g., electrolytes, glucose, kidney and liver function tests), and coagulation studies. Urine analysis, often referred to as urinalysis, can detect urinary tract infections, kidney disease, and metabolic disorders. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis is crucial for diagnosing infections of the central nervous system, such as meningitis, and certain neurological conditions. Synovial fluid analysis helps in diagnosing joint disorders like arthritis and gout. Pleural and peritoneal fluid analyses are used to investigate effusions in the chest and abdominal cavities, respectively, often to identify infections or malignancy. Amniotic fluid analysis plays a role in prenatal diagnosis.

The methods employed in body fluid analysis are diverse and include microscopy, chemical assays, immunological tests, and molecular techniques. Accurate interpretation of results requires consideration of the patient's clinical history, physical examination findings, and other diagnostic information. The sensitivity and specificity of these analyses are critical for providing reliable diagnostic information.