bloodtesting

Blood testing refers to laboratory analysis of a blood sample to assess health, diagnose disease, guide treatment, and monitor conditions. Tests measure cells, proteins, electrolytes, metabolites, antibodies, and genetic material, and are used in routine screening as well as for specific clinical questions.

Common test areas include hematology (complete blood count); chemistry panels (liver and kidney function, electrolytes, glucose); lipid testing; coagulation studies; serology and infectious disease markers; and hormonal or genetic tests. Routine panels include basic metabolic panel, comprehensive metabolic panel, lipid panel, and HbA1c.

Specimens are usually collected by venipuncture, with fingerstick samples used for some point-of-care tests. Blood may be processed into serum or plasma, and some tests require rapid handling. Results are reported by a laboratory after quality-controlled analysis.

Interpretation relies on reference ranges that vary with age, sex, and lab methods. Tests can be affected by diet, time of day, medications, or sample quality. Limitations include false positives or negatives and the need for repeat testing to confirm or monitor changes.

Testing is performed in clinical laboratories with safety measures to minimize pain, bleeding, and infection risk. Results inform medical decisions, treatment response, prognosis, and preventive care. privacy and proper handling of results are essential components of modern blood testing.