Laboratory specimen
Laboratory specimen
A Laboratory specimen (pronunciation: /læbəˈrætəri/ /ˈspɛsɪmɪn/) is a biological sample, such as blood or tissue, that is taken from an individual and sent to a laboratory for testing. The results of these tests can help diagnose, monitor, or rule out various health conditions.
Etymology
The term "laboratory" originates from the Latin word laboratorium, which means a place of work. The term "specimen" comes from the Latin word specimen, meaning a mark, token, or example.
Types of Laboratory Specimens
There are several types of laboratory specimens, including:
- Blood sample: This is the most common type of laboratory specimen. It is often used to test for conditions such as anemia, infection, and diabetes.
- Urine sample: This type of specimen is typically used to test for urinary tract infections, kidney disease, and certain types of cancer.
- Tissue sample: Also known as a biopsy, this type of specimen is often used to test for conditions such as cancer.
- Stool sample: This type of specimen is used to test for conditions such as gastrointestinal diseases and infections.
Collection of Laboratory Specimens
The collection of laboratory specimens is usually performed by a healthcare professional, such as a nurse or phlebotomist. The method of collection depends on the type of specimen being collected. For example, blood samples are usually collected using a needle and syringe, while urine samples are typically collected in a sterile container.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Laboratory specimen
- Wikipedia's article - Laboratory specimen
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