Lab Tests Abbreviations and Acronyms Complete List

A1A	Alpha-1 Antitrypsin	An inherited disorder that may cause lung disease and liver disease.
A1c	Hemoglobin A1c	This test tells you your average level of blood sugar over the past 2 to 3 months
AB	Antibody	a blood protein produced in response to and counteracting a specific antigen. Antibodies combine chemically with substances which the body recognizes as alien, such as bacteria, viruses, and foreign substances in the blood.
ABG	Arterial Blood Gas	You may have an ABG test to detect lung diseases.
ABRH	ABO Group and Rh Type	It is Your Blood Group
ABT	Antibody Titer
ACA	Anti-Cardiolipin Antibodies
ACE	Angiotensin Converting Enzyme	Drugs called ACE inhibitors are used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, diabetes and kidney diseases.
ACL	Anterior cruciate ligament	Commonly injured part of the knee
ACID PHOS	Acid Phosphatase	an enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of phosphate esters in an acidic environment.
ACP	Acid Phosphatase	an enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of phosphate esters in an acidic environment.
ACT	Activated Clotting Time	commonly used to monitor treatment with high-dose heparin before, during, and for a short time after medical or surgical procedures
ACTH	Adrenocorticotropic Hormone	(ACTH) plays a large role in how your body responds to stress.
ADA	Adenosine Deaminase	It is Protein.  type of white blood cell that plays a role in the immune response to infections.
ADHD	Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder	A behavior disorder
AFB	Acid-Fast Bacillus	bacteria that causes tuberculosis and certain other infections.
AFIB	Atrial fibrillation	A disturbance of the rhythm of the heart
AFP	Alpha Fetoprotein	a tumor marker test measures the level of AFP in your blood.
AG	Antigen	An antigen is any substance that causes your immune system to produce antibodies against it.
AIDS	Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome	Infection caused by human immunodeficiency virus
ALA	Aminolevulinic Acid	used in combination with photodynamic therapy
Alb	Albumin	blood test is a type of liver function test
Alk Phos	Alkaline Phosphatase	You may have a blood test for ALP to detect liver or bone disease.
ALP	Alkaline Phosphatase	You may have a blood test for ALP to detect liver or bone disease.
ALS	Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis	Also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease
ALT	Alanine aminotransferase	You may have a blood test for ALT to detect liver disease.
AMD	Age-related macular degeneration	An eye problem
ANA	Antinuclear Antibody	ANA test looks for antinuclear antibodies in your blood
Anti-HBc	Hepatitis B Core Antibody	indicates a past or current hepatitis B infection
Anti-HBe	Hepatitis Be Antibody	Determining infectivity of hepatitis B virus (HBV) carriers
Anti-HBs	Hepatitis B Surface Antibody	indicates that a person is protected against the hepatitis B virus.
Anti-HCV	Hepatitis C Antibody	test that looks for hepatitis C antibodies in the bloodstream.
APT	Stool for Fetal Hemoglobin	This is a screening test for fetal versus maternal blood
aPTT	Activated Partial Thrombin Time
ASN	Antibody Screen
ASO	Antistreptolysin-O
ASP	Aspirin Resistance
AST	Aspartate aminotransferase	You may have a blood test for ALP to detect liver disease.
AT III	Antithrombin-III Activity
B12	Vitamin B12
BMP	Basic Metabolic Panel
BNP	Brain Natriuretic Peptide
BUN	Blood Urea Nitrogen	You may have a blood test for BUN to detect kidney disease problems.
C1	Complement C1, Functional
C1Q	C1Q Binding Assay
C2	Complement C2
C3	Complement C3
C4	Complement C4
Ca	Calcium
CA-125	Cancer antigen 125	CA 125 test measures the amount of the protein cancer antigen 125 in your blood.
CBC	Complete Blood Count	A blood test that measures many properties of the cells in your blood
CBCD	Complete Blood Count with Differential
CEA	Carcinoembryonic Antigen
CH50	Complement Immunoassay, Total
CK	Creatine Kinase
Cl	Chloride
CMB	CKMB Panel
CMP	Comprehensive Metabolic Panel
CMV	Cytomegalovirus	A common virus
CMV Ag	CMV Antigenemia
CO	Carbon Monoxide
CO2	Carbon Dioxide
COHB	Carboxyhemoglobin
CONABO	Confirmatory Type
CPK	Creatine Phosphokinase (Creatine Kinase)	You may have a blood test for CPK to see if you’ve had a heart attack.
CPR	Cardiopulmonary resuscitation	An emergency procedure whose heart has stopper or is no longer breathing
Cr	Creatinine
CRCL, CrCl	Creatinine Clearance
CRD	Cord Type and DAT
CREAT	Creatinine
CRP	C-Reactive Protein	You may have a blood test for CRP to see if you have   inflammation or heart problems.
Cu	Copper
D Bil	Direct Bilirubin
DAT	Direct Antiglobulin (Coombs) Test
DCAS	DAT and AB Screen
DHEA	Dehydroepiandrosterone
DHEAS	Dehydroepiandrosterone-Sulfate
DIFM	Differential
Dig	Digoxin
EOS	Eosinophils
EPO	Erythropoietin
ERA	Estrogen Receptor Assay
ESR	Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate	A blood test for inflammation
ETOH	Ethanol
FBS	Fasting Blood Sugar (Glucose)
Fe	Total Iron
FEP	Free Erythrocyte Protoporphyrin
FFN	Fetal Fibronectin
FFQ	Fecal Fat
Fol	Folate
FSH/LH	FSH/LH Evaluation	If you are a woman, you may have a blood test for FSH to evaluate fertility.
FT3	Free T3
FT4	Free Thyroxine
G2PP	2 Hour Postprandial Glucose
G-6-PD	Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase
Gamma GT	Gamma Glutamyl Transferase
GCT	Glucose Challenge Test
GDS	Gestational Diabetes Screen
GFR	Glomerular filtration rate	A test of kidney damage
GGT	Gamma Glutamyl Transferase
GH	Growth Hormone
Glu	Glucose
H&H	Hemoglobin and Hematocrit
Hapto	Haptoglobin
HAV	Hepatitis A virus	A virus that causes one type of liver disease
HbA1c	Hemoglobin A1c
HBeAb	Hepatitis Be Virus Antibody
HBeAg	Hepatitis Be Virus Antigen
HBsAb	Hepatitis B Surface Antibody
HBsAg	Hepatitis B Surface Antigen
HBV	Hepatitis B virus	A virus that causes one type of liver disease
hCG	Human Chorionic Gonadotropin
hCG (urine)	Urine Pregnancy Test
HCT	Hematocrit	A virus that causes one type of liver disease
HCV	Hepatitis C virus	A virus that causes one type of liver disease
HDL	High Density Lipoprotein	A type of cholesterol, also known as “good” cholesterol
HFP	Hepatic Function Panel
HGB	Hemoglobin	A blood test measurement
HgbA1c	Hemoglobin A1c
HGH	Human Growth Hormone
HIAA	5-Hydroxyindoleacetic Acid
HIV	Human Immunodeficiency Virus	The virus that causes AIDS
HPV	Human Papilloma Virus
HSV	Herpes Simplex Virus
iCa	Ionized Calcium
IFE	Immunofixation Electrophoresis
IgA	Immunoglobulin A
IgE	Immunoglobulin E
IGF	Insulin-Like Growth Factor-I
IgG	Immunoglobulin G
IgM	Immunoglobulin M
INR	Prothrombin Time
Jo-1	Jo-1 Antibody
KB	Kleihauer-Betke
K	Potassium
Lact(o)	Lactoferrin
LD	Lactate Dehydrogenase
LDH	Lactate Dehydrogenase
LDL	Low density lipoprotein	A type of cholesterol, also known as “bad” cholesterol
LFT	Liver Function Tests
LH	Luteinizing Hormone
Li+ or Li	Lithium
MetHb/MetHgb	Methemoglobin
Mg, Mag	Magnesium
MIC	Minimum Inhibitory Concentration
MMA	Methylmalonic Acid
Mn	Manganese
Mono	Mononucleosis
NA	Sodium
NEOTY	Neonate Type and DAT
NEOXM	Neonate Type and XM
Nh4	Ammonia
NTR	Newborn Type and Rh
PAP	Pap Smear OR	You may need a PAP test to detect cervical cancer.
	Pap Smear & HPV DNA Test OR
	Prostatic Acid Phosphatase
Pb	Lead
PBG	Porphobilinogen
PCP	Phencyclidine
PEP	Protein Electrophoresis
PHOS	Phosphorus
PKU	Phenylketonuria
PLT or PLT	Platelet Count
PO4	Phosphorus
PRL	Prolactin
PRU	P2Y12
PSA	Prostate Specific Antigen
PT	Prothrombin Time	A measure of blood clotting
PTH	Parathyroid Hormone	You may have a blood test for PTH to detect    parathyroid disease.
PTT	Partial Thromboplastin Time	A measure of blood clotting
QIG	Quantitative Immunoglobulins
RBC	Red Blood Cell	A type of blood cell
RET	Reticulocyte Count
RF	Rheumatoid Factor
RFP	Renal Function Panel
RhIG (Eval)	RhIG Evaluation
RPR	Rapid Plasma Reagin
RSV	Respiratory Syncytial Virus	A virus that causes infections in children
Scl-70	Scleroderma Antibody
SHBG	Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin
SIFE	Serum Immunofixation Electrophoresis
Siro	Sirolimus
SPEP	Serum Protein Electrophoresis
SSA	Sjögren’s Syndrome A Antibody
SSB	Sjögren’s Syndrome B Antibody
SSDNA	Single Stranded DNA
T Bil	Total Bilirubin
T3	Triiodothyronine	You may have a blood test for T3 to detect thyroid disease.
T4	Thyroxine	ou may have a blood test for T4 to detect thyroid disease.
Tacro	Tacrolimus
TBG	Thyroxine Binding Globulin
TGL	Triglycerides
Theo	Theophylline
TIBC	Total Iron Binding Capacity	A test that measures the amount of iron in your blood
TORCH	TOxoplasmosis, Rubella Cytomegalovirus, Herpes simplex	A newborn will have this test to check for infections. Sometimes the mother also needs the test.
TP	Total Protein
TREP	Treponemal Antibodies
Trep Ab	Treponemal Antibodies
TRH	Thyrotropin Releasing Hormone
Trig	Triglycerides
TRXN	Transfusion Reaction Evaluation
TSH	Thyroid Stimulating Hormone	You may have a blood test for TSH to detect thyroid disease.
TSI	Thyroid Stimulating Immunoglobulin
TT	Thrombin Time
TYSC	Type and Screen
UIFE	Urine Immunofixation Electrophoresis
UPE, UPEP or
Ur Prot Elect	Urine Protein Electrophoresis
VCA	Viral Capsid Antigen
VDRL	Venereal Disease Reference Lab (Syphilis Test, CSF)
Vit A	Vitamin A (Retinol)
Vit B1	Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)
Vit B12	Vitamin B12
Vit B2	Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
Vit B6	Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
Vit C	Vitamin C
Vit D	25-Hydroxy Vitamin D
VLDL	Very Low Density Lipoprotein
VMA	Vanillylmandelic Acid
VZG	Varicella zoster IgG
WBC	White Blood Cell Count	A type of blood cell
Xa	LMW Heparin
XM	Type and Crossmatch
Zn	Zinc
ZPP	Zinc Protoporphyrin	A compound found in red blood cells

VLDL cholesterol: Is it harmful?

What is VLDL cholesterol? Can it be harmful?

Answer From Francisco Lopez-Jimenez, M. D.

Very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol is produced in the liver and released into the bloodstream to supply body tissues with a type of fat (triglycerides).

There are several types of cholesterol, each made up of lipoproteins and fats. Each type of lipoprotein contains a mixture of cholesterol, protein and triglycerides, but in varying amounts. About half of a VLDL particle is made up of triglycerides.

High levels of VLDL cholesterol have been associated with the development of plaque deposits on artery walls, which narrow the passage and restrict blood flow.

There’s no simple, direct way to measure VLDL cholesterol, which is why it’s normally not mentioned during a routine cholesterol screening. VLDL cholesterol is usually estimated as a percentage of your triglyceride value. An elevated VLDL cholesterol level is more than 30 milligrams per deciliter (0.77 millimole/liter).

The best way to lower your VLDL cholesterol is to lower your triglycerides. Losing weight and exercising regularly are key, and you might also want to avoid sugary food and alcohol in particular. Medications also can help.

With

Francisco Lopez-Jimenez, M.D.

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• Prickly pear cactus
• Eggs and cholesterol

July 10, 2020

Show references

1. McPherson RA, et al., eds. Lipids and dyslipoproteinemia. In: Henry’s Clinical Diagnosis and Management by Laboratory Methods. 23rd ed. St. Louis, Mo.: Elsevier; 2017. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed April 23, 2018.
2. VLDL cholesterol. Lab Tests Online. http://labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/vldl/tab/glance. Accessed April 23, 2018.
3. Rosenson RS, et al. Hypertriglyceridemia. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed April 23, 2018.

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CBC, CMP, UA, Thyroid, & Lipid Health Tests

Our Standard Health Test Panel is combination of lab tests and includes our Basic Health Test Panel, our Thyroid Panel with TSH, and our Complete Blood Count (CBC). Together these test panels measure and evaluate the body as a whole and include a cholesterol breakdown.

The Standard Health Panel includes the following tests:

• Lipid Panel – Measures cholesterol levels and triglycerides
• Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) – A combination of 14 health tests
• Complete Blood Count (CBC) With Differential Test
• Routine Comprehensive Urinalysis With Microscopic Examination on positive results
• Thyroid Panel with TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone)

This wellness test panel covers a broader scope of organ and body system health including:

• Heart
• Liver
• Thyroid
• Circulatory System
• Kidneys
• Glands
• Nerves
• Bones
• Muscles

The Lipid Panel is used to measure overall cholesterol levels in the body. Lipids are various forms of fat in the body and include cholesterol types. Higher levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL, also known as “bad cholesterol”) are associated with increased risk of heart attack.

LDL helps cause atherosclerosis, a hardening of the arteries that leads to plaque build-up and heart attacks. This lipid panel measures levels of: Total Cholesterol, HDL – “Good Cholesterol”, LDL – “Bad Cholesterol”, and Triglycerides.

The Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) measures blood sugar (glucose) levels, electrolyte and fluid balance, kidney function, and liver function.

The 14 measurements included in the CMP help to provide a look at the overall health of the body and its metabolism and chemical balance, and can help diagnose certain conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, and liver disease. The CMP aids in determining how the liver and kidneys are functioning and where glucose, calcium, protein, sodium, potassium, and chloride levels stand. CMP tests are often ordered as part of routine blood work or recommended by doctors as part of an annual physical.

The CMP blood test panel measures levels of:

• Albumin
• Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)
• Calcium
• Carbon dioxide (Bicarbonate)
• Chloride
• Creatinine
• Glucose
• Potassium
• Sodium
• Total Bilirubin and Protein
• Alanine aminotransferase (ALT)
• Alkaline phosphatase (ALP)
• Aspartate aminotransferase (AST)

In addition to the previous 14 measurements, the CMP also includes these calculated measurements:

• BUN/Creatinine Ratio (calculated)
• Albumin/Globulin Ratio (calculated)
• Globulin (calculated)

The Complete Blood Count (CBC) with differential and platelets test helps to give an overall view of general health and screens for a broad scope of diseases and conditions. Certain cells called circulating blood cells travel throughout the body. Certain circulating blood cells provide oxygen to other cells in the body, while others help your body fight off infections. Healthlabs.com’s CBC test panel tests for the three types of circulating blood cells: white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. This test includes testing for 10 different parameters (or features) of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. CBC testing is routinely recommended by doctors and can help doctors understand why patients may exhibit fatigue or easy bruising. It can even help them diagnose conditions such as anemia.

Our CBC Test Panel includes:

• Red Blood Cell Count (RBC) – Measures the amounts of red blood cells in the blood. Red blood cells transport oxygen throughout the body.
• White Blood Cell Count (WBC) – Measures the amount of white blood cells in the blood. White blood cells defend the body against infections and foreign bodies.
• Hematocrit – The percent of red blood cells in the blood.
• Hemoglobin – A protein that transports oxygen or carbon dioxide in the blood.
• Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) – Measures the average volume of red blood cells in the blood.
• Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH) – The amount of hemoglobin per red blood cell.
• Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) – How concentrated the hemoglobin is in a given volume of red blood cells.
• Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW) – Measures the difference of red blood cell size or volume in a blood sample.
• Percentage and Absolute Differential Counts – Measures the relative amounts of different white blood cell types within the blood.
• Platelet Count – Measures the amount of platelets (fragments and particles of cells) in the blood that are crucial for blood clotting.

Our Urinalysis with macro and microscopic examination is a 12-panel test that examines a urine sample and analyzes numerous levels and elements within the urine.

Our Urinalysis Test Panel analyzes:

• The urine sample color
• Appearance
• Specific gravity
• pH
• Protein levels
• Glucose
• Ketones
• Occult blood
• Leukocyte esterase
• Nitrite
• Bilirubin
• Urobilinogen

A urinalysis is important in accessing the chemical constituents in the urine and the relationship to various disease states. Microscopic examination helps to detect the presence of abnormal urine cells and formed elements. A urinalysis can detect abnormalities of urine; help diagnose renal diseases, urinary tract infection, urinary tract neoplasms, systemic diseases, and inflammatory or neoplastic diseases adjacent to the urinary tract.

Our Thyroid Test Panel with TSH includes:

• T3 uptake (Triiodothyronin)
• T4 (Thyroxine)
• T7 (Free-T4 Index)
• TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone)

The thyroid is an endocrine gland that not only controls metabolism, but also secrete hormones that are necessary for growth, development and nearly every physiological process in the body.

We have thousands of labs throughout the US. Go to our find a lab page to find one near you.

Blood tests – Common types

Blood tests can be used to:

• help diagnose a condition
• assess the health of certain organs
• screen for some genetic conditions
• monitor treatment

This page describes some commonly used blood tests.

Blood cholesterol test

Cholesterol is a fatty substance mostly created by the liver from the fatty foods in your diet. It is vital for the normal functioning of the body.

Having a high level of cholesterol can put you at risk of serious problems. This includes heart attacks and strokes.

A simple blood test can measure blood cholesterol levels.

The test is usually performed early in the day. You may be asked to fast for 12 hours before it. This is to make sure that all food is completely digested and won’t affect the result.

Blood gases test

A blood gases sample is taken from an artery, usually at the wrist. It’s likely to be painful and is only carried out in hospital.

They use a blood gas test to check:

• the balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in your blood
• the balance of acid and alkali in your blood (the pH balance)

Blood glucose (blood sugar) tests

A few tests can diagnose and track diabetes by checking the level of sugar (glucose) in the blood.

These include the:

• fasting glucose test – where a health professional checks the level of glucose in your blood after fasting. Fasting is when you don’t eat or drink anything other than water for at least 8 hours
• glucose tolerance test – where a health professional checks the level of glucose in your blood after fasting, and again 2 hours later after you have a glucose drink
• HbA1C test – a test done at your GP surgery or hospital to check your average blood sugar level over the past 3 months

Blood glucose test kits may be available to use at home. These only need a small ‘pin-prick’ of blood for testing.

Blood typing

This is to check what your blood group is. You will need this test before donating blood or having a blood transfusion.

If you need a blood transfusion the laboratory will match your blood with donor blood.

Blood typing during pregnancy

Blood typing is also used during pregnancy. There’s a small risk the unborn child may have a different blood group from their mother. This could lead to rhesus disease. Rhesus disease is when the mother’s immune system attacks her baby’s red blood cells.

If your blood type is rhesus negative, you will have to get an anti-D injection in a hospital. An anti-D injection stops your immune system attacking your baby’s blood cells.

Cancer blood testing

Different blood tests can help to diagnose certain cancers. These can also check if you’re at an increased risk of developing a particular type of cancer.

These include tests for:

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) 

This can help diagnose prostate cancer. It can also detect other problems such as an enlarged prostate or prostatitis.

CA125 protein 

A protein called CA125 can show ovarian cancer. But it can also be a sign of other things such as pregnancy or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).

BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes

Certain versions of these genes can increase a woman’s chance of developing:

• breast cancer
• ovarian cancer

You may get this test if these types of cancer run in your family.

Chromosome testing (karyotyping)

This is a test to examine bundles of genetic material called chromosomes.

It may be possible to detect genetic abnormalities by:

• counting the chromosomes (each cell should have 23 pairs)
• checking their shape

Chromosome testing can help:

• to diagnose disorders of sex development (DSDs), such as androgen insensitivity syndrome
• couples who have had repeated miscarriages, to see if a chromosomal problem is the cause

Coagulation tests

You may get a coagulation test to see if your blood clots in the normal way.

If it takes a long time for your blood to clot, it may be a sign of a bleeding disorder, for example, haemophilia or Von Willebrand disease.

You may be on an anticoagulant such as warfarin. Your doctor or nurse may order a coagulation test called the international normalised ratio (INR). This monitors the dose of anticoagulant and checks that your dose is correct.

C-reactive protein (CRP) test

This is a test used to help diagnose conditions that cause inflammation.

Your liver produces CRP. If there is a higher concentration of CRP than usual, it’s a sign of inflammation in your body.

Electrolyte test

Electrolytes are minerals found in the body.

They include:

They perform jobs like maintaining a healthy water balance in your body.

Changes in the level of electrolytes can have various possible causes.

These include:

• dehydration
• diabetes
• certain medications

Full blood count (FBC)

FBC is also known as complete blood count (CBC). It is a test to check the types and numbers of cells in your blood.

These include:

• red blood cells
• white blood cells
• platelets

The FBC is also used to check your haemoglobin. Haemoglobin is the iron-rich protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to the body.

This can help give an overview of your general health. It also provides important clues about certain health problems you may have.

For example, an FBC may show signs of:

• iron deficiency anaemia or vitamin B12 deficiency anaemia
• infection or inflammation
• bleeding or clotting disorders

Genetic testing and screening

For genetic testing the laboratory usually extracts a sample of DNA from your blood. They then search the sample for a specific genetic change (mutation).

Genetic conditions that can be diagnosed this way include:

• haemophilia – a condition that affects the blood’s ability to clot
• cystic fibrosis – a condition that causes a build-up of sticky mucus in the lungs
• spinal muscular atrophy – a condition involving muscle weakness and progressive loss of movement
• sickle cell anaemia – a condition that causes a shortage of normal red blood cells
• polycystic kidney disease – a condition that causes cysts (fluid-filled sacs) in the kidneys

You can also get screened to check if you’re at risk of developing a genetic condition. For example, if your sibling developed a genetic condition such as Huntington’s disease.

You may want to find out whether there is a risk that you could also develop the condition.

Liver function test

When the liver is damaged, it releases substances called enzymes into the blood. Levels of proteins produced by the liver begin to drop.

By measuring the levels of these enzymes and proteins, you can see how well the liver is functioning.

This can help to diagnose certain liver conditions including:

• hepatitis
• cirrhosis (liver scarring)
• alcohol-related liver disease

Thyroid function test

This tests your blood for levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). It can also test for thyroxine and triiodothyronine (thyroid hormones).

If you have low or high levels of these hormones, it could mean you have a thyroid condition. For example, an underactive thyroid or overactive thyroid.

Top 12 Important Blood Test for Men

Complete Blood Count (CBC) gives important information about the kinds and numbers of cells in the blood, mainly red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. A CBC helps the health professional check any symptoms, such as weakness, fatigue, or bruising. A CBC also helps the health professional diagnose conditions, such as anemia, infection, and many other disorders.

CMP-14 – The Comprehensive Metabolic Panel is a group of 14 laboratory tests ordered to give information about the current status of your liver, kidneys, and electrolyte and acid/base balance.  The test gives the current status of your blood sugar and blood proteins also. 
CMP-14 Includes:
Glucose-Blood sugar level, the most direct test to discover diabetes, may be used not only to identify diabetes, but also to evaluate how one controls the disease.
Kidney Profile
Bun or Urea Nitrogen BUN is another by-product of protein metabolism eliminated through the kidneys and an indicator of kidney function. 
Creatinine, Serum  An indicator of kidney function.  
Bun/Creatinine Ratio Calculated by dividing the BUN by the Creatinine.
Liver panel
Protein, Total Together with albumin, it is a measure of the state of nutrition in the body.
Albumin Serum one of the major proteins in the blood and a reflection of the general state of nutrition. 
Globulin, Total A major group of proteins in the blood comprising the infection fighting antibodies. 
Albumin/Globulin Ratio Calculated by dividing the albumin by the globulin.
Bilirubin, Total A chemical involved with liver functions. High concentrations may result in jaundice.
Alkaline Phosphatase A body protein important in diagnosing proper bone and liver functions.
Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST or SGOT)an enzyme found in skeletal and heart muscle, liver and other organs. Abnormalities may represent liver disease.
Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT or SGPT) an enzyme found primarily in the liver. Abnormalities may represent liver disease.
Fluids & Electrolytes
Sodium One of the major salts in the body fluid, sodium is important in the body’s water balance and the electrical activity of nerves and muscles.
Potassium Helps to control the nerves and muscles.
Chloride Similar to sodium, it helps to maintain the body’s electrolyte balance.
Carbon Dioxide, Total Used to help detect, evaluate, and monitor electrolyte imbalances.
Calcium- A mineral essential for development and maintenance of healthy bones and teeth. It is important also for the normal function of muscles, nerves and blood clotting).

Testosterone Free Direct with Total Testosterone includes both Free Direct and Total Testosterone results. Testosterone is a type of hormone (a steroid hormone). It travels around the body in the blood. Some of it floats about in the blood freely without being attached to anything else. This is ‘free’ testosterone. Some testosterone is attached/bound to a protein called SHBG (sex hormone binding globulin). Some testosterone is attached to a protein called albumin. So ‘total’ testosterone is the sum of all the testosterone in the blood, no matter what it is bound to. Free testosterone is floating around by itself and only a few percent of testosterone is free. Testosterone is used in the evaluation of hirsutism and masculinization in women; evaluation of testicular function in clinical states where the testosterone binding proteins may be altered (obesity, cirrhosis, thyroid disorders).  High free testosterone in men and women can have significant impacts on health  and behavior. Testosterone is believed to play an important role in bone and muscle strength and libido in women.

Dehydroepiandrosterone, Sulfate (DHEA,S) is an androgen, a male sex hormone present in the blood of both men and women. It aids in developing male secondary sexual characteristics at puberty, and can be metabolized by the body into more potent androgens, such as testosterone and androstenedione, or changed into the female hormone estrogen. DHEAS is produced by the adrenal cortex, which is the outer layer of the adrenal glands, with smaller amounts being produced by the woman’s ovaries and man’s testes. DHEAS secretion is controlled by the pituitary hormone adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and other pituitary factors. DHEAS is primarily produced by the adrenal glands, and is therefore useful as a marker for adrenal function. Cancers, Adrenal tumors, and hyperplasia can lead to the overproduction of DHEAS. Elevated levels may not be noticed in adult men, but they can lead to amenorrhea and visible symptoms of virilization.

Estradiol is the primary reproductive hormone in nonpregnant women. This steroid hormone plays an important role in normal fetal development and in the development of secondary sexual characteristics in females. Estradiol influences the maturation and maintenance of the uterus during the normal menstrual cycle. Levels of estradiol steadily increase during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle in association with the growth and development of the ovarian follicle. As the follicular phase proceeds, estradiol exerts a negative feedback control on the pituitary, resulting in a drop in FSH levels. Near the end of the follicular phase, there is a dramatic increase in estradiol levels. At this point, the feedback of estradiol on the hypothalamus becomes positive and produces the midcycle surge of LH which immediately precedes ovulation. After ovulation, estradiol levels initially fall abruptly, but then increase as the corpus luteum forms. At the end of the cycle, levels fall off in anticipation of the initiation of the next follicular phase. During pregnancy, the placenta produces estradiol. Estradiol levels are generally low in menopause due to diminished ovarian production.

A small amount of Estradiol is produced by the male testes. Elevated levels in males can lead to gynecomastia. Increased estradiol levels in males may be caused by increased body fat, resulting in enhanced peripheral aromatization of androgens. Levels in men can also be increased by excessive use of marijuana, alcohol, or prescribed drugs, including phenothiazines and spironolactone. Estradiol levels can also be dramatically elevated in germ cell tumors and tumors of a number of glands in both men and women.

Fibrinogen – Produced by the liver and released into the circulation as needed along with more than 20 other clotting factors. Usually, when a body tissue or blood vessel wall is injured, a process called the coagulation cascade activates these clotting factors one after the other. As the cascade nears completion, soluble fibrinogen, which is fibrinogen dissolved in fluid, is changed into insoluble fibrin threads. These threads then crosslink together to form a fibrin net that stabilizes at the injury site. The fibrin net then adheres to the site of injury along with aggregated cell fragments called platelets to form a stable blood clot. This barrier prevents additional blood loss and will remain in place until the injured area has healed. Fibrinogen is one of several blood factors called acute phase reactants. Blood levels of fibrinogen along with other acute phase reactants will rise sharply with conditions causing acute tissue inflammation or damage. Fibrinogen testing measures the amount of soluble Factor I which is fibrinogen dissolved in the blood, before it has been turned into insoluble fibrin and been cross-linked into a fibrin net. 

Hemoglobin A1c – The A1c (Glycohemoglobin) test evaluates the average amount of glucose in the blood over the last two to three months. This is done by measuring the concentration of glycated (also often called glycosylated) hemoglobin A1c. Hemoglobin is an oxygen-transporting protein that is found inside red blood cells (RBCs). The predominant form is hemoglobin A.

A C-reactive protein, high sensitivity, cardiac risk assessment (CRP,hs) test is a blood test that measures the amount of a protein called C-reactive protein in your blood. C-reactive protein measures general levels of inflammation in the body. High levels of CRP are caused by infections and various long-term diseases. A CRP test cannot show where the inflammation is located or what is causing it, thus other tests are needed to find the cause and location of the inflammation.

Homocysteine an amino acid is found normally in the body. Its metabolism is linked to the metabolism of several vitamins, including folic acid, B6, and B12, and deficiencies of those vitamins may cause elevated levels of homocysteine. Studies suggest that those with elevated homocysteine levels have a much greater risk of heart attack or stroke than those with average levels. Increased concentrations of homocysteine have been associated with the increased tendency to form inappropriate blood clots. This can lead to heart attack, strokes, and blood vessel blockages in any part of the body.

Thyroid-stimulating Hormone (TSH) – Used to diagnose a thyroid disorder in those with symptoms, screen newborns for an underactive thyroid, monitor thyroid replacement therapy in those with hypothyroidism, diagnose and monitor female infertility problems, help evaluate the function of the pituitary gland (occasionally), and screen adults for thyroid disorders, although expert opinions vary on who can benefit from screening and at what age to begin.

Cholesterol (Lipid) Panel – A lipid panel is a blood test that measures lipids, which are fats and fatty substances used as a source of energy by your body. Lipids include triglycerides, cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL).

Prostate-specific antigen is a cancer screening test for PSA, a glycoprotein produced exclusively in the prostate gland. Elevated PSA levels can indicate prostate cancer or a noncancerous condition such as prostatitis or an enlarged prostate.  Most men have PSA levels under four (ng/mL) and this has been used as the cutoff for concern about risk of prostate cancer. Men with prostate cancer usually have PSA levels higher than four, although cancer is a possibility at any PSA level. Reports state that men who have a prostate gland that feels normal on examination and a PSA less than four have a 15% chance of having prostate cancer, and those with a PSA between four and 10 have a 25% chance of having prostate cancer and if the PSA is higher than 10, the risk increases to 67%.

Different types of blood tests

There are many different types of blood test relevant to heart and circulatory conditions. Senior Cardiac Nurse Philippa Hobson shares the main types and explains what they reveal about the body.

Troponin

If you have chest pain, a blood test will often be taken to check your level of troponin, a protein which the heart releases into your bloodstream when the heart muscle is being damaged. It can help to diagnose a heart attack, but a low level doesn’t prove you haven’t had a heart attack.

Women tend to produce less troponin than men, so a heart attack diagnosis may be missed. The BHF has funded research looking at ways of measuring the same protein but at much lower levels, known as high-sensitivity testing. Troponin is always tested in a hospital setting. The results are usually available quickly which allows prompt diagnosis and treatment.

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Blood glucose (Hb A1c)

This checks your blood glucose level. It helps give an accurate diagnosis of diabetes and guide your doctor to the best treatment for you. If the levels are slightly higher than normal but don’t meet the criteria for diabetes, your doctor might say you have pre-diabetes or ‘borderline’ diabetes. This means you are still at risk, but if you make some lifestyle changes such as losing weight, the results may go back to normal. You may be asked to fast for 12 hours beforehand.

Cholesterol (lipid profile)

You may have this test at your GP surgery, or in hospital after a heart attack. It measures your total cholesterol level as well as a breakdown of your ‘good’ and ‘bad’ cholesterol and triglyceride levels. If your results are abnormal, statins can be prescribed to reduce your risk of having a heart attack or stroke.

It is also a good way to see if your medication is being effective in reducing your bad cholesterol levels, and in particular to see if your dose needs to be increased. Many people only need this checking once a year, but your doctor may want to keep a closer eye on it if it remains high despite treatment, or refer you to a doctor who specialises in lipid management.

Liver blood tests

These used to be called liver function tests (LFTs) and are done to make sure your liver is working properly. The test looks at several different enzymes and proteins, which are known to be higher or lower if the liver is damaged. An abnormal test result doesn’t necessarily mean that your liver isn’t working properly.

Full blood count (FBC)

This looks at specialised cells in the blood and can identify if you have anaemia, and can rule out or confirm an infection or some viral conditions, such as myocarditis.

Group and save (or Group and screen) test

This is done if you might need a blood transfusion later, for example if you are having surgery or have severe anaemia. It finds out your blood group and checks for antibodies that can affect a transfusion. It is done in the hospital at your pre-assessment clinic, or if you are admitted as an emergency, after an accident for example. It needs be done less than 72 hours before the potential transfusion, so will be repeated if necessary.

Urea and electrolytes (U&E)

This checks for chemicals, called electrolytes, in the blood, such as sodium (salt), potassium and magnesium. If the levels are too high or too low, this can cause abnormal heart rhythms, so it is important to adjust them if the levels aren’t right.

The body makes a protein called urea which is normally broken down in the kidneys. If there is a higher level in the blood than normal, this could indicate problems with kidney function, which can affect your heart too.

Some heart medications, such as ACE inhibitors, can affect your kidneys, so this test will help your doctor decide if it is safe or appropriate to increase your dose, depending on your condition and the results of the test.

Brain Natriuretic Peptide (BNP)

This can diagnose or show the severity of heart failure. It can be done by your GP or in hospital. If you are showing symptoms of heart failure, such as swollen ankles or feeling short of breath, having this blood test means you may be able to start the right medication at the earliest opportunity if the results are positive.

Blood gas test

Blood is sometimes taken from an artery in the wrist to check for levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide, and its chemical balance. This would only be done in places like A&E and intensive care units. The test is used if you have trouble breathing or have lung problems.

International Normalised Ratio (INR)

If you take warfarin (a blood-thinning medicine), it is very important that your blood clotting levels are kept within a level requested by your specialist. Essentially, the test measures how long your blood takes to clot. You may attend an anticoagulation clinic for your tests, or some GP practices/community nurses are able to do this.

The result will help your doctor decide how much warfarin you should take and how often you need the blood test repeating. Sometimes it takes a while for the right level to be achieved, so you may find your dose changes.

Some people have their own INR monitoring testing kit. This is particularly useful if it is difficult for them to attend regular testing.

Blood Test: Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) (for Parents)

What Is a Blood Test?

A blood test is when a sample of blood is taken from the body to be tested in a lab. Doctors order blood tests to check things such as the levels of glucose, hemoglobin, or white blood cells. This can help them detect problems like a disease or medical condition. Sometimes, blood tests can help them see how well an organ (such as the liver or kidneys) is working.

What Is a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)?

The comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) is a blood test that gives doctors information about the body’s fluid balance, levels of electrolytes like sodium and potassium, and how well the kidneys and liver are working.

Why Are Comprehensive Metabolic Panels Done?

A CMP is done to learn information about the levels of:

• Glucose, a type of sugar used by the body for energy. High glucose levels may point to diabetes.
• Electrolytes:
  • Calcium, which plays an important role in how muscles and nerves work.
  • Sodium, potassium, carbon dioxide, and chloride, which help control the body’s fluid levels and its acid-base balance. Normal levels of these electrolytes help keep cells in the body working as they should.
• Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine, which are waste products filtered out of the blood by the kidneys. These levels show how well the kidneys are working.
• Albumin and total protein, which are needed to build and maintain muscles, bones, blood, and organ tissue. Low levels may be seen with liver or kidney disease, or nutritional problems.
• Liver tests: Alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and bilirubin. When these levels are high, it can be a sign of a problem with the liver.

How Should We Prepare for a CMP?

Your child may be asked to stop eating and drinking for 8 to 12 hours before a CMP. Tell your doctor about any medicines your child takes because some drugs might affect the test results.

Wearing a T-shirt or short-sleeved shirt for the test can make things easier for your child, and you also can bring along a toy or book as a distraction.

How Is a CMP Done?

Most blood tests take a small amount of blood from a vein. To do that, a health professional will:

• clean the skin
• put an elastic band (tourniquet) above the area to get the veins to swell with blood
• insert a needle into a vein (usually in the arm inside of the elbow or on the back of the hand) 
• pull the blood sample into a vial or syringe
• take off the elastic band and remove the needle from the vein

In babies, blood draws are sometimes done as a “heel stick collection.” After cleaning the area, the health professional will prick your baby’s heel with a tiny needle (or lancet) to collect a small sample of blood.

Collecting a sample of blood is only temporarily uncomfortable and can feel like a quick pinprick.

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Can I Stay With My Child During a CMP?

Parents usually can stay with their child during a blood test. Encourage your child to relax and stay still because tensing muscles can make it harder to draw blood. Your child might want to look away when the needle is inserted and the blood is collected. Encourage your child to relax by taking slow deep breaths or singing a favorite song.

How Long Does a CMP Take?

Most blood tests take just a few minutes. Occasionally, it can be hard to find a vein so the health professional may need to try more than once.

What Happens After a CMP?

The health professional will remove the elastic band and the needle and cover the area with cotton or a bandage to stop the bleeding. Afterward, there may be some mild bruising, which should go away in a few days.

When Are CMP Results Ready?

Blood samples are processed by a machine, and it may take a few hours to a day for the results to be available. If the test results show signs of a problem, the doctor might order other tests to figure out what the problem is and how to treat it.

Are There Any Risks From CMPs?

A comprehensive metabolic panel is a safe procedure with minimal risks. Some kids might feel faint or lightheaded from the test. A few kids and teens have a strong fear of needles. If your child is anxious, talk with the doctor before the test about ways to make the procedure easier.

A small bruise or mild soreness around the blood test site is common and can last for a few days. Get medical care for your child if the discomfort gets worse or lasts longer.

If you have questions about the CMP, speak with your doctor or the health professional doing the blood draw.

The norm of cholesterol in the blood in the News section on the website OOKB No. 2

Date added: April 06, 2015

So harmful or useful cholesterol and is it worth fighting with?

Cholesterol is a fat-like substance that is really vital for a person. Cholesterol is a part of the membranes-membranes of all cells of the body, there is a lot of it in the nervous tissue, cholesterol is necessary for the formation of many hormones.

But! The body itself produces cholesterol in quantities more than sufficient to meet its own needs.However, a person also gets cholesterol from food. When cholesterol in the body, first of all, in the blood of a person becomes too much, then from a friend he turns into a mortal enemy.

How does cholesterol work when there is too much of it?

Excess cholesterol accumulates in the walls of blood vessels. Around these deposits, connective tissue or, in another way, scar tissue grows, calcium deposits are formed. This is how an atherosclerotic plaque is formed.It narrows the lumen of the vessel, reduces blood flow, and the addition of a blood clot leads to its blockage.

When a vessel is blocked, the blood flow stops, and the tissue of the organ that nourished this vessel gradually dies off, without receiving oxygen and nutrients. If the blockage occurs in the heart, angina pectoris develops, and then myocardial infarction, if in the brain – cerebral stroke.

Sometimes the vessels of the legs are affected, then a person experiences unbearable pain and often loses the ability to move.The first bell, signaling the risk of developing these diseases, is high cholesterol.

Everyone over the age of 20 should know their cholesterol level. To do this, you just need to regularly – at least once every few years – do a blood test for the level of total cholesterol and its content in various transport forms – lipoproteins.

What do the numbers in the analysis mean?

In the blood test, you will see the level of cholesterol (cholesterol), as well as other numbers.The fact is that in human blood cholesterol is transported together with proteins, and such complexes are called lipoproteins.

Low density lipoproteins (LDL) and their very low density precursors (VLDL) are low in protein, large and high in cholesterol and fat – triglycerides. Penetrating into the vessel wall, they transport excess cholesterol into the vascular cell. An increase in the level of these components in the blood leads to the early development of atherosclerosis.

High-density lipoproteins (HDL) – small in size, they contain a different protein than LDL.Penetrating into the vessel wall, they capture cholesterol and carry it to the liver. The lower the level of HDL, i.e. cholesterol in “good” complexes, the higher the risk of atherosclerosis.

Optimal levels of cholesterol and related parameters in the blood:

People who control their cholesterol have 30-40 percent fewer serious heart complications and 30 percent fewer deaths from any cause.

What to do if your blood cholesterol level is high?

The cholesterol content can be reduced. To do this, you need to improve your lifestyle. Be physically active, eat healthy, and quit smoking – it significantly increases the risk of atherosclerotic plaque formation.

First of all, it is necessary to reduce the consumption of solid animal fats, which simultaneously contain a lot of saturated fatty acids and cholesterol, there are a lot of them in butter, fatty dairy products, fatty cheeses, baked goods, fatty meat.

Fats should make up about 30 percent of the total caloric intake of food, of which saturated – no more than 10 percent (1/3 of all fats), and 2/3 of fats should come from the consumption of vegetable oils, fish oil. By following the guidelines below, you can reduce your blood cholesterol levels by 10-12 percent.

The allowed number of eggs is two per week. But you can also get them in salads and pastries.

Use foods with reduced fat and cholesterol content in your diet more often: first of all, low-fat dairy products.

Choose wholemeal bread, whole grain pasta, and water-cooked cereals. Eat more vegetables and fruits.

For meat products, stop at chicken, turkey and veal. Remove fat from meat and skin from poultry before cooking.

Increase your fish consumption, especially sea fish. It is better if fish is present in your diet every day.

Choose desserts without fat, cream and a lot of sugar. Stop for fruit salads and savory jellies.

Consume more foods containing soluble fiber: oatmeal, apples, plums, berries, beans. They lower the level of cholesterol in the body and increase its excretion.

Consume recently introduced so-called “functional” foods containing plant sterols and stanols: they reduce the absorption of cholesterol in the intestine and reduce the “bad” form of LDL cholesterol by 10-15 percent.

Do not fry in oil: boil, simmer, bake. Use pans with a coating that does not require added fat for cooking.

What if the diet did not work?

If, after 6-8 weeks of the diet, your total blood cholesterol level is less than 5 percent lower and your risk of atherosclerosis is still high, your doctor may prescribe medication to lower your blood cholesterol level.

Do not under any circumstances self-medicate or fall for advertising of “miracle” nutritional supplements. Your doctor may only recommend one type of supplement – soluble fiber preparations.However, it is worth remembering that they only complement and enhance the effect of a properly formulated diet.

In Russia, no more than 5 percent of residents know their own blood cholesterol levels. For comparison: in the US and Europe, this figure is almost 80 percent.

Studies show that lowering cholesterol levels by an average of 10 percent leads to a 20-50 percent reduction in the risk of developing major cardiovascular diseases and mortality from them.

Cardiologists all over the world believe that everyone over 20 should know their cholesterol level.

Check your cholesterol level!

The norm of cholesterol in women by age: table

Many people know that a cholesterol test is performed to diagnose lipid metabolism disorders and to assess the risk of developing a disease such as atherosclerosis. However, most do not have answers to such questions:

• Should this organic compound be present in the human body?
• In any quantity?
• Are the rates for men and women the same?
• Does the level of cholesterol in women depend on the level of hormones?
• What happens if the value is higher than the norm or, conversely, lower?

And this is not the whole list of what a woman might think about when she hears about a cholesterol test.Once questions arise, then they should be asked to the appropriate specialist. But if at the moment there is no such possibility, then you can study at least basic information.

Cholesterol. What is it and why does everyone need it

Cholesterol (or, in other words, cholesterol) is an organic compound that is produced by our body and also enters it with food. And not from any product. If we talk about food, then it must be of animal origin: eggs, fish, meat, milk and offal.And in the human body, the liver acts as the main “plant” for the production of cholesterol. Also, the substance is also formed in the walls of the intestines, skin, adrenal glands and some other organs. There are certain values ​​within which the level of cholesterol in the blood is considered normal. Indicators for women and men differ not only by gender, but also by age. Nevertheless, cholesterol in the broadest sense is a building material for cells. The organic compound is found in cell membranes; participates in the synthesis of vitamin D, sex hormones and metabolism.Thus, without cholesterol, our body cannot function normally.

Cholesterol – good or bad

The substance itself does not float in the blood. The compound is always surrounded by lipoproteins – complexes of proteins, fats and other components. Depending on the composition of these complexes, cholesterol can be converted to good or bad.

• When cholesterol in the composition of low-density lipoproteins (LDL, or LDL) rises in the blood, it often does not behave very well: it settles on the walls of blood vessels, forming plaques.If these “blockages” strongly clog the blood vessels, then cardiovascular diseases may develop.
• But with high-density lipoproteins (HDL, or HDL), the substance can be transferred from the plaques and organs themselves to the liver for further processing.

You cannot say that one of the types is needed, and the other is not. Cholesterol with lipoproteins of both high and low density is needed in the body. However, as with any system, balance is essential. For advanced diagnostics, a blood test is usually taken:

• for total cholesterol;
• HDL;
• LDL;
• triglycerides.

Upper and lower limits of the norm for women. Table with basic indicators 90 140

The data shown in the table are for informational purposes only. For testing, contact your local physician or certified laboratory. IMPORTANT: only a doctor can correctly interpret the results, taking into account the patient’s history, her complaints (or lack thereof) and other diagnostic data.

Why does the norm of cholesterol for women change with their age 90 140

Usually, when talking about high cholesterol, it is the LDL values ​​that are meant.If you look at the entire table above, you can easily notice that with age, the rate of the substance content in the blood increases. Therefore, we can conclude that LDL (and not only them) appear more and more in the blood. Of course, this is not a constant upward proportional increase. The increase occurs up to a certain age of the woman. After about 65 years of age, the concentration of cholesterol in the blood begins to fall along with the normal range. Why does concentration increase with age? The question is good and simple, therefore the answer to it is short: the older a person becomes, the more the connective tissues in the body grow and fat deposits are formed, all this provokes an increase in cholesterol levels.It is for this reason that throughout life it is worth monitoring the indicators of cholesterol, HDL, LDL and triglycerides.

5 myths: I heard that cholesterol …

People are constantly sharing various information with each other. However, it is important to share truthful facts and not misrepresent them. Precisely because someone heard something somewhere, and then told it to another, and myths are taken. Consider a little specifically about cholesterol.

Provokes obesity. To be more precise, high cholesterol levels trigger excess weight gain. No! This relationship has not been proven. But the fact that hypercholesterolemia and obesity are often observed simultaneously is a fact. The thing is that the appearance of both the first and second diseases can provoke the same reasons:

• intestinal microflora imbalance;
• eating a lot of refined foods;
• liver dysfunction.

With nutritional adjustments, an active lifestyle and undergoing treatment (if necessary), both body weight and cholesterol levels can decrease and then return to normal.

Provokes the appearance of atherosclerosis. Among the causes of the disease, there really is such as high cholesterol levels. But it cannot be argued that this substance is the main cause of atherosclerosis. As a rule, the disease occurs due to the combined presence of many factors (bad habits, unhealthy diet, obesity, diabetes mellitus, heredity, gender, regular consumption of fat, the patient’s age, and so on).

Eliminated from the body if a lot of fruits and vegetables are eaten. These foods contain fiber, which is why some think it can coat cholesterol and flush it out of the body. No. Fiber is useful for the functioning of the intestines, liver and other organs, but does not possess the mentioned property. And you do not need to completely eliminate cholesterol. Remember that many cells need organic compound, and not only them.

Eliminated from the body if food of animal origin is removed from the diet. Remember that cholesterol gets into the body from the outside, just from such food? So, you should not completely remove it from the diet. Fatty foods – yes, you need to minimize (fast food, mayonnaise, sausages, cookies, cakes, etc.). Eggs, meat, fish and similar food of animal origin are a source of not only the necessary cholesterol for the body, but also proteins. If cholesterol is high, then a specialist consultation and examination is needed to identify the real causes of the problem.

Doesn’t need control if I’m thin. And that’s not true. The need for cholesterol control is independent of physique. All women need to be tested for such an indicator. First, the functioning of the liver and the gastrointestinal tract does not depend on the same cholesterol level. Accordingly, a woman with any figure and weight can have a decreased or increased indicator. Secondly, in childbearing age, the female body usually prevents the deposition of bad cholesterol in the vessels. However, with a lack of this organic compound, amenorrhea can occur.After menopause, the level of the substance rises, which sometimes increases the risk of cardiovascular disease in women.

How can you keep your cholesterol normal

1. Give up bad habits. Alcohol and smoking have a negative effect on health, including good cholesterol levels. Give up these two bad habits – and the body will surely thank you with improved health and mood.
2. Eat right. Yes, it’s hard, because you want so much fat, fried, sweet … But hard doesn’t mean impossible! Start the process gradually. For example, remove first sweet, then a week later – fried, after another week – fat. Keep a journal recording your weight, cholesterol levels, and other accomplishments. This will show you the dynamics that usually motivate you to take action. Consult a dietitian if necessary. A specialist will help you create a healthy diet.Herbalife Nutrition has developed a line of products that, in combination with proper nutrition, moderate exercise and, in the absence of contraindications, can help the body saturate cells with useful substances and get rid of toxins and toxins.
   • Thermo Complete. It can normalize metabolic processes, saturate and tone tissues.
   • Roseguard. Helps to prolong youth at the cellular level and cleanse cells of antioxidants.
   • Nightworks.It can be used to normalize the work of the cardiovascular system and saturation of the blood with nitrogen.
   • “Cellular Activator”. Helps the rapid transformation of fat cells into energy.
3. Go in for sports. It is not necessary to do kilometer runs in the park, although some will love it. Take a walk, walk, sign up for a pool or gym. If the park is far away, run in the stadium in the next yard. Is running hard? Alternatively, Nordic walking.Think what would be interesting and enjoyable for you. Looking for a company? Invite your husband, girlfriend, child, or other loved one with you. Do not treat sports as coercion, but as part of your lifestyle.

Women need cholesterol. Indisputably. However, keep an eye on its level. Check at least once a year and regardless of age. But remember that usually it depends on age what the upper and lower limit of the cholesterol norm for a woman will be.

What are lipoproteins? – FSBI “NMITs TPM” of the Ministry of Health of Russia

Not all blood cholesterol is equally dangerous: sometimes people talk about “good” and “bad” cholesterol. But cholesterol as a substance is all the same, it is simply found in the blood in different spherical particles – complexes with other fat and protein molecules – they are called lipoproteins.

One of them – low-density lipoproteins carry cholesterol with blood to peripheral tissues from the liver, where it is synthesized.If there are too many of these particles or their breakdown is disturbed, a lot of cholesterol accumulates in the blood, it is deposited in the walls of blood vessels, and connective (scar) tissue grows around its deposits. This is how an ATHEROSCLEROTIC PLAQUE is formed, which narrows the lumen of the vessel and obstructs the blood flow. And then cholesterol in the composition of low-density lipoproteins can be called “bad”.

Atherosclerotic plaques are different. The most malignant ones – with a large cholesterol nucleus and a thin cap of connective tissue – are called unstable.Such a plaque breaks easily and opens like an abscess into the lumen of the vessel. In response to this, the body tries to close the resulting damage with a blood clot. Often, a thrombus cannot stop growing and closes, like a cork, the entire lumen of the vessel. The blood flow stops, and the tissue of the organ dies off without oxygen and nutrient supply. If this happens in the heart, myocardial infarction develops, if in the brain, a cerebral stroke. As can be seen from the above, the onset of such dangerous diseases is caused by an increased level of cholesterol, which is found in low density lipoproteins.That is why it is called “bad”. In a detailed laboratory analysis of blood lipids (fats and fat-like substances), this indicator is abbreviated as LDL cholesterol.

But there are other “good” lipid-protein complexes in the blood as well. They are called high density lipoproteins (HDL). HDL traps and removes cholesterol from the sites of its accumulation in the walls of blood vessels. By “cleansing” the vessels from excess cholesterol, HDL prevents atherosclerotic plaques from forming.

The higher the content of LDL cholesterol in the blood (cholesterol in “bad” complexes) and the lower the level of HDL cholesterol (cholesterol in “good” complexes), the faster atherosclerosis will develop.

Cardiologists around the world are of the opinion that everyone over 20 years old should know their cholesterol level. Moreover, it is necessary to make a blood test for “good” and “bad” cholesterol, ie. detailed analysis for lipids.

There is a lipid clinic in our Center, so in the clinical diagnostic laboratory you can make a detailed analysis of the lipid profile, as well as consult a lipidologist, a specialist who will competently advise you based on the results of laboratory tests.Depending on the level of cholesterol and its distribution in the “bad” and “good” complexes, as well as according to the data of other examinations, the doctor decides whether a dietary or drug correction is necessary and gives appropriate recommendations.

You can make an appointment with a lipidologist by phone: +7 (495) 790-71-72

What you need to know about cholesterol – Baltic Medical Center

What is cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a fat-like substance found in every cell of the body, which is transmitted through the circulatory system.Cholesterol is necessary for building cells, sex hormones or hormones of the adrenal cortex, synthesis of bile acids, metabolism of vitamin D, etc. A low amount of cholesterol may indicate possible diseases or cause depression. Most of the cholesterol – about 70% – is produced by the human body, and the rest comes from food of animal origin. Cholesterol does not dissolve in the blood, but combines with plasma proteins called lipoproteins.

What is the risk of high cholesterol?

An increase in the level of “bad” cholesterol and a decrease in the “good” cholesterol in human blood is one of the main risk factors affecting the occurrence of cardiovascular diseases.

With an increase in the concentration of LDL (“bad” cholesterol) in the blood, the body’s ability to metabolize its excess is disrupted, as a result of which this excess accumulates on the walls of the arteries, forming the so-called plaques, and atherosclerosis develops, which damages the blood vessels supplying blood to the heart and brain , kidneys, lower limbs and small intestines. The most common consequence of this disease is myocardial infarction and cerebral stroke.

It is important that everyone has their blood cholesterol levels checked regularly.When an elevated blood cholesterol level is detected, it is important to take timely measures to lower it, and thus prevent the development of cardiovascular diseases.

How do I know my cholesterol level?

The high blood cholesterol concentration cannot be seen or felt. It is recommended that a lipidogram (blood test for cholesterol) be done for every person over the age of 20. And after 30 years, being overweight, eating fatty foods or having a relative with cardiovascular disease, it is recommended to take this test every year.

Lipidogram is a complex consisting of four analyzes: total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol (high density lipoproteins), LDL cholesterol (low density lipoproteins) and triglyceride concentration in blood serum.

Diet recommendations for maintaining normal blood cholesterol levels

Recommended: eat less animal fats, eat lean meat (veal, beef, hare), eat kidney and liver dishes less often, eat skinless chicken and turkey meat,

moderately consume eggs and alcohol, eat more fish products (especially fish that live in cold seas: mackerel, tuna, salmon, cod), do not fry food, but stew or cook, eat more fruits and vegetables (green is better total), choose low-fat dairy products, eat black bread, especially from wholemeal flour with bran, eat less sugar, drink enough liquid (about 1.5 liters per day), do not smoke, normalize weight, exercise regularly …

The designation of cholesterol in a blood test in Latin

Every person who regularly travels to English-speaking countries should know the designation of cholesterol in a blood test in English – if you suddenly have to go to a doctor, you can quickly figure out the results of the study. By the way, it will look like Chol or TL. But in our country, the decryptions that are transmitted by laboratory assistants to doctors do not contain Russian words, instead, Latin is used.

Experts strongly recommend not trying to understand what is what on your own, but in general, cholesterol is also prescribed under the letters Chol with the corresponding numbers identified in the laboratory.

What are we talking about?

What does the designation of cholesterol mean in the analysis, what does this tell about? To understand this issue, you need to pay attention to the substance itself – cholesterol, which has attracted the attention of doctors and researchers in recent years.The term is usually used to designate an organic compound normally produced by the cells of the human body. It is absolutely irreplaceable for cell membranes and is an element of the process of synthesizing some hormonal and other active substances involved in the biochemistry of the human body.

Knowing the designation of cholesterol in the biochemical blood test, you can independently verify the indicators obtained in the laboratory with the generally known average standards, but you should not draw conclusions in advance – the doctor will cope with this better, since he will be able to take into account all the features of the human body.Based on the Chol indicator, one can understand how healthy a person is, what dangers threaten his health.

Dangers to humans

A distinctive feature of cholesterol is the inability to dissolve in water. To function normally, this compound must be transported in the human body using specialized transport forms. In science, they are called lipoproteins. In some cases, a compound so indispensable for the normal functioning of the body turns into a serious threat.To suspect this on time, you need to regularly donate biological fluids for laboratory research and study the results together with a doctor, knowing the designation of cholesterol in a blood test in Latin. The doctor can talk about the standards applied to a specific person, taking into account the age, comorbidities.

Problems are usually associated with metabolic disorders in the body. If such failures are observed, fats, cholesterol can accumulate on the vascular walls, due to which the lumen will decrease.

The urgency of the problem

The fact that many modern people know the Latin designation of cholesterol in a blood test, although they did not receive special education, indicates that a high percentage of the population is faced with similar health problems. This is not only a very topical issue in terms of prevalence, but also associated with serious risks to humans.

As the pathology progresses, the lumen of the arteries narrows to such an extent that complete blockage can occur.The vessel will become impassable. If it is a very small capillary, it may not be a problem at first, but a blood clot can come off and block a vital vessel. For many, knowledge about the designation of cholesterol in a blood test in Latin letters appears after visiting a doctor who finds arteries affected by deposits. In such a situation, the likelihood of a severe form of atherosclerosis is increased.

Why research?

Often people who have been prescribed a biochemical analysis are interested in the designation of cholesterol in a blood test.Common designations Chol, TC are used here. Such a study is prescribed if the doctor suggests an increase in blood cholesterol. At the same time, according to the results of the event, the concentration of lipoproteins, triglycerides can be established. The atherogenic coefficient is calculated in the laboratory. After receiving the results and making a transcript, the doctor will tell the patient exactly which fractions of cholesterol were found during the study of biological fluids, what all this means, what to fear and what additional tests are recommended to undergo.

Detailed information

We have already mentioned the designation of cholesterol in the analysis of blood for biochemistry. Normally, the value should vary around 5.2 mmol / L. If the indicator is higher, it is likely that the patient has atherosclerosis.

In addition, the symbols TRIG, TG can be seen in the newsletter. It is customary to mark the amount of triglycerides with such letters. These compounds are formed in the intestinal walls during the re-synthesis of components obtained from the fatty breakdown reaction.Triglycerides enter the systems of transport forms, entering the circulatory system. The normal indicator for such symbols is 1.77 mmol / L.

Useful information

You need to know not only the designation of cholesterol in the blood test, but also the concept designated by HDL laboratory technicians. This term is used to encode some specific high-density lipoproteins. Such transport forms normally allow to prevent atherosclerotic processes in the circulatory system, since they are able to capture excess cholesterol, take it from peripheral organic tissues and send it to the liver, where metabolism and excretion from the body take place.Lipoproteins can receive cholesterol molecules from several other transporters. Normally, the indicator reaches 1.2 mmol / l.

In addition to the designation of cholesterol, the letters VLDL can also be seen in the blood test. They conceal especially low-density lipoproteins. Such cells are capable of transporting cholesterol molecules, as well as acids from the fatty class. Cells need components to produce energy and build new structures. It is them that are delivered by especially low-density lipoproteins.Transporters are formed by the liver, from where they enter the circulatory system.

Acids, cholesterol, which are carried by molecules, are gradually directed to the target cells. The process is controlled by lipoprotein lipase. It is known that especially low-density lipoproteins play an important role in atherosclerotic processes. The normal indicator is no more than 1.04 mmol / l. If this threshold is exceeded, there is already cause for concern.

What else to look for?

By studying biochemical analysis information, an attentive person can see the LDL symbols.They hide underneath low-density lipoproteins formed from compounds of the corresponding density. They are also responsible for transporting cholesterol cells, donating them to tissues in need. It is known that lipoproteins, known to science under the abbreviation LDL, are important for atherosclerotic processes, therefore, it is necessary to control that the value is normal – up to 3 mmol / l.

Atherogenicity is indicated by IA symbols. Based on this information, it can be concluded how the different fractions of lipoproteins relate to each other.If the parameter exceeds 3.5 mmol / l, there is reason to worry – this indicates an increased likelihood of atherosclerotic processes, complications associated with the deposition of plaques on the vascular walls.

Is there a difference?

The designation of cholesterol in the general blood test is no different from the symbolism used in biochemical research. The difference between these measures is only in the accuracy of the information received and the number of parameters that can be set accurately by conducting laboratory conditions.But the symbols used to encrypt data are the same for a variety of research methods.

For whom is the analysis especially important?

Some people are at risk of developing atherosclerosis. Of course, knowing such features of your body, you need to visit a doctor more often in order to obtain accurate information about the processes occurring in the body. In particular, if a hereditary predisposition is known, you will have to visit a doctor constantly. Often, with appropriate genetic information, people are faced with a very rapid and extremely aggressive development of pathology.

Regular blood tests are essential if hypertension is detected. By monitoring the amount of cholesterol in the blood, you can keep the disease under control. At the same time, you need to monitor body weight. If the mass index exceeds 30, this is also a factor for regular studies of the circulatory system.

Risk group

Doctors recommend that people of the following categories be especially careful about their health:

• suffering from a tendency to bad habits, especially drinking and smoking;
• postmenopausal women;
• leading a hypodynamic lifestyle.

In some cases, dietary and lifestyle adjustments will suffice, other patients need additional drug therapy to eliminate the above average risk and improve the quality of life. It is better to leave the specific decision to the doctor, who knows exactly when to be treated, and when it is enough to keep track of your habits and weight.

Lipidogram: analysis features

Such an analysis is prescribed if there are assumptions about an incorrect level of cholesterol in the blood.Diagnostics is complex, reveals various metabolic disorders associated with lipid activity, and also helps to predict ischemia of the heart muscle. For research, receive blood samples from a vein. For the results to be correct, it is important to follow the established rules.

The very first condition is the delivery of biological fluid strictly on an empty stomach, in the morning. Before the procedure, you cannot eat at least eight hours, but it is better to abstain from food for half a day. This applies not only to nutritious meals, but also to coffee and tea.It is allowed to drink water, but in reasonable quantities. Also, you can not drink alcoholic beverages – the ban on them extends for several days before the study. Similar restrictions are imposed on fatty, fried foods.

Features of the procedure

For the results to be as accurate as possible, you should come to the clinic in advance so that you can rest before the procedure for at least a quarter of an hour. Any physical activity affects the indicators of the quality of the biological fluid, therefore, the test results may be inaccurate.Even the simple climb of the stairs has an impact.

Correction is possible with the use of medications. It is recommended to refuse any pills, injections at least ten days before the scheduled study. If there is no opportunity to take such a long break, it is important to consult with a doctor, to inform him about all the therapy underway. The doctor may correct the reading of the results based on this information.

How cholesterol is indicated in a blood test: transcript

It is difficult for a patient to understand medical abbreviations.The designation for cholesterol in the blood test of public hospitals and laboratories is a combination of capital letters of medical terms. In private clinics, they use an English-language analogue. Deciphering the analysis will not be difficult if you know the norms of each indicator. It is important to provide the patient with advice on the correct preparation for donating blood. This will provide adequate results and a faster diagnosis.

What is this cholesterol test?

It is impossible to detect cholesterol molecules in a general blood test.Biochemistry is used to identify them. It detects “bad” cholesterol, which is indicated in capital letters of its biochemical characteristics.

The analysis is indicated for people who suspect atherosclerotic disorders in the vascular walls. The latter can be manifested by the following clinical symptoms:

• Pressure surges. They are noted when measuring with a tonometer and registering indicators in a special diary. If the systolic and diastolic blood pressure rises regularly, we are talking about hypertension against the background of atherosclerosis.
• Dizziness, paresthesia and sensory dysfunction. Symptoms appear when the atherosclerotic process reaches the large and small vessels of the central or peripheral nervous system.
• Shortness of breath. Against the background of increased blood pressure numbers, a pulmonary heart arises. It is characterized by an enlargement of the left ventricle – its dilatation. The patient develops respiratory distress.
• Cyanosis of the nasolabial triangle. It is often joined by cyanosis of the distal phalanges of the fingers of the upper and lower extremities.This indicates a weak oxygenation of these parts of the body.
• Contouring of capillaries, veins and arteries under the skin surface. Their pulsation is often observed.
• Deterioration of the patient’s mnestic functions. These include the ability to think, remember new events and remember old ones.

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Preparing for execution

Do not eat fried food on the eve of sampling.

The collection of biological material is performed by a nurse in a laboratory environment.Only specific preparation is required from the patient. The day before the test, the patient must stop eating fatty and fried foods, food with a high content of preservatives, stabilizers, dyes and flavor enhancers. On the day of the laboratory visit, the patient should not have breakfast. It is only allowed to drink water without gas. A person should not overload himself with physical and emotional activity. All this can affect its hormonal background and the general homeostasis of the body. Ignoring the preparation rules entails false results and the need for a second examination.

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How is it carried out?

A medical blood test for cholesterol is carried out in a special laboratory under sterile conditions. In order to collect a full vacutainer of biological material, the nurse puts a flagellum on the patient’s hand and asks the patient to make movements with this limb as if he were squeezing an expander. After that, the tourniquet is dissolved and a vein puncture is performed. Having collected the required amount of blood mass, vacuum containers are sealed and sent to the next stage.In laboratory conditions, in hematological material, specialists are trying to detect high, low and very low density lipoproteins, cholesterol molecules and triglycerides.

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How is cholesterol indicated in the results?

As a result of research, lipid fractions are often abbreviated from their full name.

For correct decoding, you need to know how each indicator is spelled. And if in biochemical analysis total cholesterol is designated by the word “lipids”, then abbreviations are always written for its fractions.This abbreviation allows doctors to automatically decipher the name of the required indicator. The designation of cholesterol in a biochemical blood test is an abbreviation of standard medical terms or those in Latin, which is presented in the table:

Very low density lipoproteins

44 A “bad” molecule, because it is not able to be metabolized in the bloodstream

concentration norms of cholesterol molecules.For example, in newborns, 3.5 mmol / l is considered a normal value, and in adolescent children, this figure rises to 5 mmol / liter.

These fluctuations are due to the growth of the body, as mentioned in a scientific publication in the journal Atherosclerosis and Dyslipidemias. Decoding in adults often gives errors, since the content of cholesterol molecules, lipoproteins of different densities and triglycerides in their blood depends on the way of life, hormonal characteristics and the age category.For example, in women, LDL and VLDL are able to grow during menstruation, pregnancy and breastfeeding. The normal indicator for them is considered 3.5, while for males – 4.8 mmol / l.