Blood testing

Blood testing

Blood testing is a laboratory analysis technique performed on a blood sample that is usually extracted from a vein in the arm using a hypodermic needle, or via fingerprick.

Pronunciation

Blood testing: /blʌd ˈtɛstɪŋ/

Etymology

The term "blood testing" is derived from the English words "blood", which comes from the Old English blōd, and "test", which originates from the Old French test meaning "small vessel".

Procedure

Blood tests are used to determine physiological and biochemical states, such as disease, mineral content, drug effectiveness, and organ function. The process of blood testing involves the collection of a blood sample, followed by laboratory analysis.

Types of Blood Tests

There are several types of blood tests, including Complete Blood Count (CBC), Blood Chemistry Tests, Blood Enzyme Tests, and Blood Tests to Assess Heart Disease Risk.

Complete Blood Count

A Complete Blood Count (CBC) is a blood test used to evaluate your overall health and detect a wide range of disorders, including anemia, infection and leukemia.

Blood Chemistry Tests

Blood Chemistry Tests or panels are groups of tests that measure different chemicals in the blood. These tests usually are performed on the fluid part of the blood to determine how well certain organs are functioning.

Blood Enzyme Tests

Blood Enzyme Tests measure specific enzymes in the blood to determine if there's been damage to certain organs or tissues, particularly the heart.

Blood Tests to Assess Heart Disease Risk

Blood Tests to Assess Heart Disease Risk are used to determine the levels of certain fats, cholesterol, sugar, and proteins in your blood, which can help determine your risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

Related Terms

• Hematology: The branch of medicine concerned with the study of the cause, prognosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases related to blood.
• Phlebotomy: The process of making an incision in a vein with a needle.
• Serology: The scientific study or diagnostic examination of blood serum, especially with regard to the response of the immune system to pathogens or introduced substances.

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