![]() |
CBC; Chem-7 or chem-20; ACE levels; Chest x-ray to see if the lungs are involved or lymph nodes are enlarged; CT scan; Lymph node biopsy; Skin lesion biopsy; Bronchoscopy; Open lung biopsy; Liver biopsy; Kidney biopsy; EKG to see if the heart is i...
|
|
Diagnosis depends on information from a number of sources, including the patient's symptoms, the physical examination, x-ray pictures of the chest, and a number of other laboratory examinations of blood or other tissue. None of these categories of...
|
![]() |
This is a blood test that measures the amount of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE).
|
|
This test measures blood levels of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), also known as Serum Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (SASE). The primary function of ACE is to help regulate arterial pressure by converting angiotensin I to angiotensin II.
|
![]() |
Lymph node biopsy is a test in which a lymph node or a piece of a lymph node is removed for examination under a microscope. The lymphatic system is made up of lymph nodes connected by lymph vessels. The nodes produce white blood cells (lymphocytes) that fight infections. When an infection is present, the lymph nodes swell, produce more white blood cells, and attempt to trap the organisms that are causing the infection. The lymph nodes also try to trap cancer cells.
|
|
|
A lymph node biopsy is a procedure in which all or part of a lymph node is removed and examined to determine if there is cancer within the node. Lymph node biopsy is a procedure in which a sample of lymph node tissue is removed for laboratory analysis.
|
|
|
A lymph node biopsy is a procedure in which all or part of a lymph node is removed and examined to determine if there is cancer within the node. Purpose The lymph system is the body ' s primary defense against infection.
|
![]() |
A nerve biopsy is the removal of a small piece of a nerve for examination.
|
![]() |
Bronchoscopy is a test to view the airways and diagnose lung disease. It may also be used during the treatment of some lung conditions.
|
|
|
Bronchoscopy is a procedure in which a cylindrical fiberoptic scope is inserted into the airways. This scope contains a viewing device that allows the visual examination of the lower airways.
|
|
BronchoscopyCall your doctorif you have shortness of breath, a temperature above101.0° F for more than24hours, or bleeding from your nose or throat. If you have chest pain or severe shortness of breath, call right away.Bronchoscopyis an exam used ...
|
|
|
Bronchoscopy is a procedure in which a hollow, flexible tube called a bronchoscope is inserted into the airways through the nose or mouth to provide a view of the tracheobronchial tree. It can also be used to collect bronchial and/or lung secretions and to perform tissue biopsy.
|
|
|
Bronchoscopy is a procedure in which a cylindrical fiberoptic scope is inserted into the airways. This scope contains a viewing device that allows the visual examination of the lower airways.
|
|
|
Bronchoscopy is a procedure in which a hollow, flexible tube is inserted into the airways (nose or mouth). The bronchoscope is inserted through the nose (or mouth) provides a view of the tracheobronchial tree and can be used to collect bronchial and/or lung secretions.
|
![]() |
This test measures the amount of calcium in urine. All cells require calcium for numerous functions. Calcium is especially important in the structure of bones and in neuromuscular activity. A deficiency of calcium in the body fluids causes hyperexcitable nerves and muscles. Excess calcium has the opposite effect. Calcium is also an important component of kidney stones. Urinary calcium levels may therefore help identify causes of kidney stone formation.
|
![]() |
A complete blood count (CBC) test measures the following: The number of red blood cells (RBCs) The number of white blood cells (WBCs) The total amount of hemoglobin in the blood The fraction of the blood composed of red blood cells ( hematocrit ) The mean corpuscular volume (MCV) -- the size of the red blood cells CBC also includes information about the red blood cells that is calculated from the other measurements: MCH (mean corpuscular hemoglobin) MCHC (mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration) The platelet count is also usually included in the CBC.
|
|
|
One of the most commonly ordered clinical laboratory tests, a blood count, also called a complete blood count (CBC), is a basic evaluation of the cells (red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets) suspended in the liquid part of the blood (plasma). It involves determining the numbers, concentrations, and conditions of the different types of blood cells.
|
|
|
A complete blood count (CBC) is a series of tests used to evaluate the composition and concentration of the cellular components of blood. It consists of the following tests: red blood cell (RBC) count, white blood cell (WBC) count, and platelet count; measurement of hemoglobin and mean red cell volume; classification of white blood cells (WBC differential); and calculation of hematocrit and red blood cell indices .
|
|
The clinical laboratory test that evaluates the three main cellular components of peripheral blood (red cells, white cells, and platelets) is called the " complete blood count " (CBC). It is used commonly to assess whether a patient is anemic (low red cell count), has an infection (increased white blood cells), or has abnormal blood coagulation (platelet levels).
|
|
A complete blood count (CBC) is a series of tests used to evaluate the composition and concentration of the cellular components of blood. It consists of the following tests: red blood cell (RBC) count, white blood cell (WBC) count, and platelet count; measurement of hemoglobin and mean red cell volume; classification of white blood cells (WBC differential); and calculation of hematocrit and red blood cell indices .
|
|
Chem-20 is a group of 20 chemical tests performed on serum (the portion of blood without cells). Electrolytes are ionized salts in blood or tissue fluids (ions are atoms or molecules that carry an electrical charge). Electrolytes in the body include sodium, potassium, chlorine, and many others. The rest of the tests focus primarily on chemicals related to the body's metabolism and the breakdown of various substances. These are tests that evaluate the function of the liver and kidneys.
|
|
CHEM-7 is a group of 7 chemical tests performed on serum (the portion of blood without cells).
|
![]() |
A chest x-ray is an x-ray of the chest, lungs, heart, large arteries, ribs, and diaphragm.
|
|
|
A chest x ray is a procedure used to evaluate organs and structures within the chest for symptoms of disease. Chest x rays include views of the lungs, heart, small portions of the gastrointestinal tract, thyroid gland and the bones of the chest area.
|
|
Detailed information on chest x-rays, including reasons for the procedure
|
|
A chest x ray is a procedure used to evaluate organs and structures within the chest for symptoms of disease. Chest x rays include views of the lungs, heart, small portions of the gastrointestinal tract, thyroid gland, and the bones of the chest area.
|
|
|
A chest x ray is a procedure used to evaluate organs and structures within the chest for symptoms of disease. Chest x rays include views of the lungs , heart , small portions of the gastrointestinal tract, and the bones of the chest area.
|
|
Treatment for lung cancer usually begins a few weeks after diagnosis. This gives patients time to talk with their doctor about treatment choices, to get a second opinion, to decide about treatment, and to prepare themselves and their loved ones.
|
|
|
Computed tomography (CT) of the chest is performed to diagnose a variety of symptoms, including vascular, cardiac, airway disease as well as cancers that can occur in the thoracic region of the body. Purpose The purpose of the CT scan is to noninvasively and quickly visualize internal organs which may be damaged by disease or trauma.
|
![]() |
An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a test that records the electrical activity of the heart. ECG is used to measure the rate and regularity of heartbeats as well as the size and position of the chambers, the presence of any damage to the heart, and the effects of drugs or devices used to regulate the heart (such as a pacemaker). See also stress test and Holter monitor (24h) .
|
|
The electrocardiogram (ECG) displays important information about the heart, including the occurrence of a heart attack or lack of oxygen, whether conduction of the heartbeat is disturbed, or its rate or rhythm altered. It is useful as a rapid indicator of the diagnosis and it is easy, painless, and inexpensive to record.
|
|
Detailed information on electrocardiogram, including how the EKG/ECG is performed and what happens after the procedure
|
|
Electrocardiography is a commonly used, noninvasive procedure for recording electrical changes in the heart. The record, which is called an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG), shows the series of waves that relate to the electrical impulses that occur during each beat of the heart.
|
|
Did you know that electrical currents flow throughout your body? Because the strongest of these travels through your heart, doctors are able to monitor your heart by placing electrical sensors on the surface of your skin. They do this by giving you an electrocardiogram -- abbreviated either ECG or EKG (from the original German spelling of the word).
|
|
The ECG (also known as EKG) is a test that records electrical signals from your heart onto a paper strip. The pattern of these signals can tell the doctor whether your heart is normal, under stress, or experiencing electrical problems, strain, or damage.
|
|
Detailed information on an electrocardiogram (EKG) procedure, including how the procedure is performed, reasons for the procedure, and pre- and post-evaluation instructions
|
|
The Harvard Health Letter celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. In the first of a series, the Health Letter takes a look back at three decades in medicine.
|
|
During a physical examination, a health care provider studies a patient's body to determine the presence or absence of physical problems. A typical physical examination includes: Inspection (looking at the body) Palpation (feeling the body with hands) Auscultation (listening to sounds) Percussion (producing sounds)
|
![]() |
Ionized calcium is a test that measures the amount of free calcium (Ca++, Ca +2) in the blood. (See also serum calcium .) Ionized or free calcium is the metabolically-active portion of calcium and is not bound to proteins in the blood.
|
![]() |
A renal biopsy is a way to obtain a sample of kidney tissue. The sample is then examined in the laboratory.
|
|
Kidney biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small piece of tissue is removed from the kidney for microscopic examination. Purpose The test is usually done to diagnose kidney disease and to evaluate the extent of damage to the kidney.
|
![]() |
The liver is a pyramid-shaped organ that lies within the upper right side of the abdomen. In a typical liver biopsy, a needle is inserted through the rib cage or abdominal wall and into the liver to obtain a sample for examination. The procedure can also be performed by inserting a needle into the jugular vein in the neck and passing a catheter through the veins down to the liver to obtain the sample.
|
|
A liver biopsy is a medical procedure performed to obtain a small piece of liver tissue for diagnostic testing. The sample is examined under a microscope by a doctor who specializes in the effects of disease on body tissues (a pathologist) to detect abnormalities of the liver.
|
|
Liver BiopsyBefore the liver biopsy, ask your doctor any questions you have.During aliver biopsy,a needle is inserted through the skin(percutaneous)and into the liver. A small sample of liver tissue is then removed and sent to a lab to be examined...
|
|
|
A liver biopsy is a medical procedure performed to obtain a small piece of liver tissue for diagnostic testing. The sample is examined under a microscope by a pathologist, a doctor who specializes in the effects of disease on body tissues; in this case, to detect abnormalities of the liver.
|
|
|
A liver biopsy is a medical procedure performed to obtain a small piece of liver tissue for diagnostic testing. Liver biopsies are sometimes called percutaneous liver biopsies, because the tissue sample is obtained by going through the patient ' s skin.
|
|
A liver biopsy is a medical procedure performed to obtain a small piece of liver tissue for diagnostic testing. Liver biopsies are sometimes called percutaneous liver biopsies, because the tissue sample is obtained by going through the patient ' s skin.
|
|
Understanding Liver BiopsyAliver biopsyis a special procedure that’s safe and quick. It can help your doctor assess the health of the liver.Who Needs a Liver Biopsy?
|
|
Liver function tests, or LFTs, include tests for bilirubin, a breakdown product of hemoglobin, and ammonia, a protein byproduct that is normally converted into urea by the liver before being excreted by the kidneys. LFTs also commonly include tests to measure levels of several enzymes, which are special proteins that help the body break down and use (metabolize) other substances.
|
|
Detailed information on the most common liver function tests, including serum bilirubin test, serum albumin test, serum alkaline phosphatase test, serum aminotransferases, prothrombin time test, alanine transaminase test, aspartate transaminase test, gamm
|
|
Liver function tests, or LFTs, include tests that are routinely measured in all clinical laboratories. LFTs include bilirubin, a compound formed by the breakdown of hemoglobin; ammonia, a breakdown product of protein that is normally converted into urea by the liver before being excreted by the kidneys; proteins that are made by the liver including total protein, albumin, prothrombin, and fibrinogen; cholesterol and triglycerides, which are made and excreted via the liver; and the enzymes alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH).
|
|
Liver function tests, or LFTs, include tests that are routinely measured in all clinical laboratories. LFTs include bilirubin, a compound formed by the catabolism of hemoglobin; ammonia, a product of protein catabolism that is normally converted into urea by the liver before being excreted by the kidneys ; proteins that are made by the liver including total protein, albumin, prothrombin, and fibrinogen; cholesterol and triglycerides, which are made and excreted via the liver; and the enzymes alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH).
|
![]() |
Lung gallium (Ga.) scan is a type of nuclear scan involving radioactive gallium, which helps determine whether a patient has inflammation in the lungs.
|
![]() |
The mediastinum is the space that separates the 2 lungs and contains the heart, thymus, esophagus, trachea, the large blood vessels, and lymph nodes. A mediastinoscopy is a procedure in which a lighted instrument (mediastinoscope) is inserted through a neck incision to visually examine the structures in the top of the chest cavity. Most commonly this procedure is used to examine lymph nodes in a patient with lung cancer, for disease staging purposes. A sample ( biopsy ) may be taken with the mediastinoscope.
|
![]() |
Open lung biopsy is a test in which a small piece of the lung tissue is removed through a surgical incision in the chest. The sample is then examined for cancer , infection, or lung diseases .
|
![]() |
This is a test that measures the presence and level of rheumatoid factor (RF) in the blood.
|
|
The RF is an antibody detectable in the blood in about 70 percent of persons with rheumatoid arthritis but can often be found in other people as well. In fact, healthy people with no arthritis and no medical problems at all make tiny amounts of this antibody.
|
![]() |
Serum immunoelectrophoresis detects the presence or absence of immunoglobulins in the blood and assess the type (polyclonal or monoclonal) of immunoglobulins.
|
|
PTH is a test that measures the amount of PTH (parathormone) in blood.
|
|
The parathyroid hormone (PTH) test is a blood test performed to determine the serum levels of a hormone secreted by the parathyroid gland in response to low blood calcium levels. PTH works together with vitamin D to maintain healthy bones.
|
|
The parathyroid hormone (PTH) test is a blood test performed to determine the serum levels of a hormone secreted by the parathyroid gland. The parathyroid glands are small paired glands located near the thyroid gland at the base of the neck.
|
|
A skin lesion biopsy is the removal of a piece of skin to diagnose or rule out an illness.
|
|
A skin biopsy is a procedure in which a small piece of living skin is removed from the body for examination, usually under a microscope, to establish a precise diagnosis. Skin biopsies are usually brief, straightforward procedures performed by a skin specialist (dermatologist) or family physician.
|
|
Serum calcium is a blood test to measure the amount of calcium in the blood. Serum calcium is usually measured to screen for or monitor bone diseases or calcium-regulation disorders (diseases of the parathyroid gland or kidneys).
|