Periodic medical examinations – best medicine. However, even a third of the population of our country does not use this type of treatment. Reality modern world is such that average citizens cannot afford the unnecessary costs and even the necessary amount of time for treatment. People don't pay attention to illnesses and dangerous syndromes as long as it can be tolerated. Then they start turning to several doctors at once, not understanding what to treat first, and spend great amount funds for drugs.
Way out of such situations
From year to year laboratory diagnostics gaining momentum. While everyone turned to inexperienced surgeons and pediatricians, this type of medicine introduced daily modern technologies and made a huge breakthrough in analytics and processing test results, so standing in lines for hours or making an appointment to a good doctor a month before the session it became simply unnecessary.
Current laboratory diagnostics are based on blood tests. By taking blood for analysis and determining its condition, you can determine what a person is sick with. This procedure more accurate than an examination by a doctor, because blood is the connecting element of all human internal organs. At the same time, you can take a blood test for everything
By conducting an in-depth blood test, you can find out:
- General condition of the patient’s body
- Identify problems in the functioning of specific organs or several organs as a single mechanism
- Determine inflammation
- Identify emerging cancer formations
- Identify foods that cause vomiting or rash (the procedure requires special equipment)
- Determine the missing amount of microelements or vitamins in the human body.
What specific test needs to be taken?
There are a huge number of blood tests, you can find out about them on the websites of clinics, medical forums or in the price lists of private laboratories. You can also take a blood test for everything /strong>.
The most popular in such situations are biochemical analysis blood and general blood test.
General blood analysis
The analysis is considered to be the main therapeutic prophylaxis. It is carried out at the first stages of examinations and preventive measures, regardless of the disease.
General analysis blood is carried out for:
- Diagnosis of anemia
- Diagnosis of blood diseases
- Diagnosis of infectious and inflammatory diseases
Blood chemistry
It is prescribed for the purpose of preventive checks of a person’s general condition and to check for chronic infectious diseases. Allows you to determine accurate results on the functionality of individual organs or their poor interaction as unified system. Shows the general condition of the liver and kidneys, determines incipient rheumatic processes, inflammation of organs or lack of elements for the body.
The results of a biochemical blood test are analyzed and determined according to these criteria:
- AST (heart, liver)
- Bilirubin (hepatitis, cirrhosis)
- Uric acids (kidneys)
- Gamma-GT (pancreas)
- Chemical elements (potassium, calcium, sodium, etc.)
- Albumin (intestines, liver, kidneys)
- Phosphotase (liver, bone problems)
- Cholesterol (liver)
- Creatinine (kidneys)
- Triglycerides ( lipid metabolism)
How and where to analyze the analysis result?
High quality and quick tests are carried out only in private laboratories. The laboratories are independent and the results are high quality and unbiased.
For analytics and interpretation of analyses, you need to turn not to “forum experts,” but to professionals. The best option– go to a clinic that owns an independent laboratory or sends tests to a laboratory. Get to know the doctors in advance and find out about their qualifications. The correctness of the diagnosis directly depends on the interpretation of the tests.
About the benefits of tests
The human body is very complex mechanism, in which each individual system works in conjunction with the others. Thus, any violation, even a seemingly insignificant one, leads in the long term to negative consequences.
Since blood circulates throughout the body, its formula is affected by any inflammatory process.
Hormone production is also centrally regulated. Therefore, a decrease in the volume of one substance often leads to an imbalance of the entire system. Quantitative indicators help doctors make accurate forecast based on test results.
At the same time, urine, being filtered in the kidneys and evacuated from the body through the genitals, provides very accurate data about their health.
Generally general idea It is not difficult to determine the well-being of both an adult and a child based on just a few laboratory tests.
The advantages of this type of research are obvious. They:
- not too expensive;
- simple;
- do not affect health, even if they are performed frequently.
If a person’s health is generally satisfactory, this does not mean that he does not have any health problems. The body’s reserve “capacity” is quite enough to compensate for many of the disorders resulting from pathologies.
In the absence of specific complaints, it is enough to come for preventive tests every year and you will never lose control over the situation. However, if you have any unpleasant signs from the list below, you should not delay your visit to the doctor for a single day:
- various pains that have a clear localization and appear regularly;
- feeling of weakness;
- high irritability;
- sudden weight gain;
- fast weight loss;
- long lasting infections.
The doctor will conduct an examination and, based on it, give directions for other examinations, but, first of all, send it to the laboratory.
What kind of tests are taken regularly?
When there are no special complaints about your health, you can limit yourself to only two samples. We are talking about general analyses:
- blood;
- urine.
This option is the cheapest and simplest, and it also allows you to identify many dangerous illnesses.
General research blood reveals the following parameters:
- amount of hemoglobin;
- rate of platelet and erythrocyte sedimentation;
- content of other components.
Based on the results of this test, the doctor is able to identify the presence of a problem and take all necessary measures to eliminate it.
A general urine test is also very informative. In addition to the previously mentioned pathologies of the kidneys and reproductive system, it can also detect diabetes and some hematopoietic diseases.
In addition, it would be useful to take a test for your lipid profile and cholesterol. Its frequency is as follows:
- at least once every five years - from 35 to 45;
- every 3 years – from 45 to 50;
- annually - after 50 years.
This analysis helps to detect problems with fat metabolism in a timely manner and signal the onset of atherosclerosis. And this, in turn, minimizes the risk:
- vascular thrombosis;
- stroke;
- heart attack.
At the moment, sugar testing is considered not very reliable. Instead, you should take a test to help determine the amount of glycated hemoglobin. With its help, it is possible to find out how much the glucose level has fluctuated over the past 6-8 weeks.
It is carried out:
- from 30 to 40 – in five years;
- from 40 to 45 – every 2 years;
- later - at least once every 12 months.
- bilirubin;
- creatinine;
- total protein;
- urea.
With its help, it is possible to get an idea of the functioning of metabolism in general and the kidneys and liver in particular. The frequency of this procedure is once a year.
A test will tell you about the health of your thyroid gland. thyroid-stimulating hormone(TSG). The problem is that over the past few years the number of cases of hypothyroidism has noticeably increased and therefore doctors recommend adding the previously mentioned study to the list of planned activities.
Another very informative test is for homocysteine levels. It helps detect the risk of blood clots in blood vessels.
Don't forget about hepatitis (B and C) and AIDS. These infections are already long time are considered the most common on Earth. The danger is that they do not manifest themselves in any way for many years. This analysis must also be completed annually.
How to prepare for tests
The general rules are generally not too complicated. The patient is required to:
- do not eat for at least 6 hours;
- spend a day without physical activity;
- avoid as many violent emotions and stress;
- Do not drink any alcohol for 2 days;
- No smoking for 3 hours.
All samples are taken in the morning. If the doctor gives a referral, it indicates exact time visit to the laboratory.
Before taking tests for sex hormones, women should also avoid physical intimacy and inform the specialist about the phase of the menstrual cycle.
In order to make a correct diagnosis, a person who goes to the hospital for medical help is prescribed certain tests. Each of them allows you to highlight certain blood indicators, on the basis of which a person will be diagnosed.
All blood tests are divided primarily into two types, depending on what kind of blood is collected venous or capillary. Venous blood is obtained directly from a vein in the elbow. Capillary blood is obtained from ring finger piercing it with a needle.
There are several main types of blood tests used in medicine:
- general;
- biochemical;
- blood group and Rh factor;
- for hCG;
- for the presence and condition of microelements;
- for sugar;
- immunological;
- serological;
- allergy tests;
- determination of coagulability;
- hormonal analysis;
- study for tumor markers.
Each of them can provide data about certain cells and substances that make up the blood. By their presence or a certain concentration, we can talk about the state of the body.
It is worth considering that for some types of tests, blood can be taken not only from a vein or from a finger.
Test for sugar is carried out in two stages. First of all, blood is drawn from the capillaries. The procedure is carried out in the morning, when the person has not eaten for at least 8 hours. Based on the resulting data, the doctor can judge the level of sugar concentration in the blood. Glucose testing is carried out even at home. For this, people with diabetes use special devices. Monitoring is carried out to prevent exacerbation of the disease. It is also prescribed to people at risk.
Blood from a vein for testing diabetes mellitus usually taken from people over 40 years of age. It is prescribed to detect glucose levels. In venous blood its concentration is higher than in tissues. Indicators are considered normal from 3.3 to 5.5 mmol/l.
Allergy tests are carried out using capillary blood, but it is not taken from a finger.
Allergy tests involve making small scratches on the patient's skin. Most often, the skin area on the wrist is chosen for this. Substances isolated from allergens are then applied to the scratches. If the scratch begins to swell, you can judge whether the person is predisposed to an allergy to a specific substance.
Assign this analysis people suffering from severe allergic reactions, to isolate the exact allergen.
Finger blood test
Capillary blood is collected from a finger. It allows you to assess the general condition of the body and find out about the presence of certain diseases, but without specifics.
Blood is taken from a finger for the following types of studies:
- general;
- for sugar;
- to determine blood clotting.
Most often, doctors prescribe to patients undergoing a general blood test. It is prescribed as mandatory for passing before a scheduled examination, and during any visit to a therapist. Based on it, the doctor can judge the content of blood cells, hemoglobin level, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate. The number of leukocytes is also assessed to detect inflammation.
Define degree of clotting A finger prick blood test also helps. To carry it out, the finger is pierced with a needle, after which the time to stop the bleeding is measured. Considered normal indicators from 2 to 3 minutes. A component such as heparin is responsible for blood clotting. If it is not enough, then a person’s bleeding does not stop for a long time. This condition requires urgent treatment.
Blood from a vein
Blood from a vein is not taken so often, however, it is used to carry out more analyses. They are prescribed when it is necessary to conduct a study of those indicators that only a study of venous blood can provide.
The most frequently performed study is biochemical analysis. For it, blood obtained from a vein is used early in the morning, after an 8-hour fast.
With its help, you can notice the inflammatory processes occurring in the body, assess the water-salt balance, as well as the balance of microelements. Its implementation allows us to determine such indicators as:
- protein;
- cholesterol;
- sugar;
- bilirubin;
- triglycerides;
- iron;
- potassium;
- calcium;
- magnesium;
- sodium;
- urea;
- creatinine;
- uric acid;
- blood gases;
- other enzymes.
Biochemical analysis is also prescribed to confirm an accurate diagnosis and before prescribing treatment.
Immunity research is also carried out by assessing the state of the blood. To do this, blood is taken from a vein in the morning from a person on an empty stomach.
In this case, it is not the blood itself that is examined, but the resulting serum isolated under the influence of a centrifuge. It identifies indicators of leukocytes, granulocytes, lymphocytes, monocytes, killer cells, nullers, and also indicates the activity of blood cells and their speed.
Blood test for the condition and presence of microelements is also carried out based on the state of venous blood, since its content of microelements is higher than in tissues.
This study allows us to judge the excess or deficiency of microelements in the body.
Immunological analysis allows you to diagnose the quality of immunity. It is carried out primarily to assess the condition of patients suffering from allergies and with frequent visits to the doctor with complaints of infectious diseases.
Such an analysis is also prescribed for suspected oncology and immunodeficiency.
Practically it is also carried out serological blood test. It is carried out with the aim of studying antibodies and antigens produced in the body under the influence of viruses. To conduct the study, the blood serum of a sick person is used. Antibodies are isolated from it, on the basis of which an accurate diagnosis can be established.
Hormone research carried out based on the results of venous blood studies. Diagnosing the amount of various hormones contained in it is necessary for people who have certain health problems. Carrying out this analysis allows us to identify sufficient different types diseases that arise as a result of improper functioning of various human organs and systems.
Venous blood is collected for hormone testing in the morning on an empty stomach. People suffering from bulging veins and pain are first prescribed a blood clotting test.
Blood test for the presence of tumor markers also performed using venous blood.
The study is carried out to detect in the blood a special protein produced in the human body by tumors. If tumor markers are detected in the patient’s blood, treatment begins immediately, since the earlier the disease can be diagnosed, the greater the likelihood of coping with the disease.
Venous blood for testing for tumor markers is taken in the morning on an empty stomach.
A blood test from a vein is also performed to determine pregnancy, or more precisely, to study the level of human chorionic gonadotropin. Having passed such an analysis, a woman can determine pregnancy already 6 weeks after pregnancy.
PCR or polymerase chain reaction also performed on the basis of blood from a vein. It is used to detect urological diseases. The doctor evaluates its results, together with the results of the urethral smear, and identifies which bacteria or viruses could cause the disease.
In emergency situations it is carried out blood test from a vein to determine blood group and Rh factor. The same analysis is prescribed to women when they join the antenatal clinic in order to obtain information about possible risks termination of pregnancy.
How many times a year can and should you take it?
Most of the tests performed in hospitals are prescribed exclusively when visiting a doctor with health complaints. Other tests are taken by women only once or twice during pregnancy or when planning it.
However, the main blood tests listed above must be taken periodically throughout the year in order to promptly prevent possible diseases or follow general condition body. This general and biochemical tests. Also, more and more often, doctors recommend taking sugar test, since quite a lot of people, regardless of age, go to clinics with this problem.
Almost any change in the body’s condition is instantly reflected in blood counts, so it is very important to periodically examine its condition. And although the phrase that became the epigraph to our article was said by the great Woland on a different occasion, issues of blood carry many mysteries, most of which have now been learned to be solved, helping people deal with many problems. Blood is the same tissue of the body as all others, only liquid.
Circulating through the vessels, blood transports many compounds - among them gases, nutrients, etc.
Blood binds and carries oxygen and carbon dioxide, forcing every cell to breathe.
Blood nourishes cells with glucose, amino acids, fats, vitamins, minerals, and water.
Blood cleanses the body by removing metabolic end products from the tissues: urea, uric acid and other substances removed from the body by the excretory organs.
Blood cools and warms internal organs.
Blood maintaining constancy internal environment, stabilizes the condition of the body.
Blood ensures water-salt exchange.
Blood performs protective function, preserving our immunity.
Thanks to its transport function, blood ensures the coordinated functioning of all organs and systems.
That is why it is extremely necessary to check the quantitative and qualitative composition of blood using tests carried out different ways For example, for research you can take capillary blood obtained from a finger (usually the ring finger, less often the middle and index finger) by puncturing the lateral surface of the soft tissue of the terminal phalanx, for which sterile needles (scarifiers) and sterile pipettes are used. Before taking blood, the skin is treated with a 70% alcohol solution, the first drop of blood is blotted with a cotton ball, and subsequent drops are used to prepare blood smears, collected in a special glass capillary to determine the erythrocyte sedimentation rate, as well as assess other indicators. For biochemical tests, predominantly venous blood is used.
Most often, at the first stage of any examination, a general clinical blood test is prescribed. It includes counting the amount of hemoglobin; number of red blood cells (erythrocytes); white blood cells (leukocytes); leukocyte formula(each type of leukocyte is counted); blood platelets (platelets); determination of erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), etc. As a rule, this type of analysis will not be able to show specific changes in the body, but it is entirely within its power to reflect the general changes occurring in the body as a whole. The first assistant in diagnosing hematological, infectious, inflammatory diseases, assessing the severity of the condition and the effectiveness of therapy. Does not require special training. For the analysis, blood from a fingertip taken on an empty stomach is used (fasting is when at least 8 hours pass between the last meal and blood collection, for the study of triglycerides - at least 12 hours). It should be remembered that there is no need to stretch and rub your fingers before drawing blood, as this can lead to an increase in the level of leukocytes in the blood, as well as a change in the ratio of the liquid and dense components of the blood.
The most informative is a biochemical blood test; the specificity of this analysis is the assessment functional state body, the functioning of internal organs (especially the liver, pancreas, kidneys), protein, fat and carbohydrate metabolism substances. Defined: total protein and protein fractions, sugar, cholesterol and its fractions, triglycerides, bilirubin and its fractions, various enzymes (AST, ALT, CPK, GGTP, LDH, ALP, CP, etc.), iron (serum and deposited), calcium, potassium, sodium, magnesium, phosphorus, nitrogen metabolism products (creatinine, urea, uric acid), blood gases (O2, CO2).
For example, protein indicators in this analysis can tell about the following:
Proteins - can enter into a wide variety of chemical reactions with a wide variety of substances, performing numerous functions in the body. The majority of plasma proteins are albumin. They retain water well, accounting for up to 80% of the colloid osmotic pressure of the blood. Reduced content albumin in the blood plasma (hypoalbuminemia) occurs due to the same reasons as a decrease in the total amount of protein (due to low intake from food, liver disease, kidney disease, fasting, as well as burns and proteinuria), which causes a decrease in blood pressure and subsequently leads to the occurrence of edema. An increased content of albumin in the blood plasma (hyperalbuminemia) is observed when the body is dehydrated.
Another common type of analysis is a blood sugar test.
A blood sugar test involves determining glucose levels, which are expressed in millimoles per liter. Glucose levels of 3.3-5.5 mmol/l are considered normal. For the analysis, blood from a fingertip taken on an empty stomach is used. IN outpatient setting This type of study should be carried out in all patients over 40 years of age, and before this age - if diabetes is suspected.
Most people with diabetes measure their blood sugar levels at home using a special device - a glucometer.
Glucose (blood sugar) is the most important carbohydrate in the blood. The concentration of glucose in the blood depends on the ratio of the rate of its formation in the pancreas, absorption from gastrointestinal tract and disposal of fabrics.
Disorders of carbohydrate metabolism are accompanied by a decrease or increase in the concentration of glucose in the blood (hypo- and hyperglycemia). An increase in glucose levels indicates a violation of carbohydrate metabolism and indicates possible development diabetes mellitus A sustained increase in fasting blood glucose levels to 7.0 mmol/l or higher is a symptom of diabetes mellitus. The level of glucose in venous blood is several percent lower than in capillary blood.
A glucose loading test (glucose tolerance test - GTT) is performed to detect latent diabetes mellitus and identify patients at risk. The study requires special preparation - for the previous 3 days it is necessary to adhere to a normal diet, without restriction of carbohydrates, and to discontinue medications, the use of which may affect the result (such as salicylates, oral contraceptives, corticosteroids, phenothiazine, lithium, metapyrone, vitamin C, etc.). On the eve of the study, alcohol consumption is contraindicated. The test is performed in the morning on an empty stomach (fasting for no more than 12 hours). During the study, it is prohibited to drink any liquids other than water, eat food, or smoke. You need to lie or sit quietly. If weakness, fainting, or increased sweating occur, the study is suspended. The fasting blood sugar level is determined, then the patient is offered to drink sweet water containing 50 g of glucose. After 1 hour, the blood sugar level is determined again (one-hour test). To better assess the body's absorption of glucose, a 3-hour test is used. On an empty stomach, your blood sugar level is determined, then you are asked to take 100 g of glucose. Blood sugar levels are measured 3 times (after the first, second and third hours after the sugar load). The study is carried out on an outpatient basis. U healthy person Blood sugar levels should never, under any circumstances, exceed 8.8 mmol/l. A fasting glucose level in the range of 6.1-6.9 mmol/l indicates impaired glucose tolerance, but not always diabetes mellitus.
Level of glycosylated hemoglobin. If its content exceeds 5% of the total amount of hemoglobin against the background of elevated glucose levels, then this indicates that the sugar level has been elevated for a long time. If it is determined high level glycosylated hemoglobin against the background normal sugar, this indicates that the patient has had episodes of hyperglycemia over the past 3 months. The test cannot be performed with initially high glycemia (more than 11.0 mmol/l), after suffered a heart attack myocardium, surgery, trauma, childbirth. Patients with gastrointestinal pathology are given an intravenous glucose load.
Immunological blood test
Immunological analysis determines the number of immune cells and immune complexes of the body. Immunological research provides information about the state of various parts of the immune system, diagnoses primary and secondary immunodeficiency. The presence of immunoglobulin classes determines the acute (IgM) or chronic (IgG) stage of the infectious disease. Determine the total number of leukocytes, the content of lymphocytes, granulocytes, monocytes (percentage and absolute); populations of lymphocytes - helpers, suppressors, killers, nullers; phagocytic activity of leukocytes; proliferative activity of lymphocytes; circulating immune complexes (CIC); IgA immunoglobulins, IgM, IgG. For analysis, blood is taken from a vein on an empty stomach; only blood serum obtained by centrifugation of blood is used. Indications for testing are frequent infections, infectious diseases with a chronic and protracted course, suspicion of genetically determined or acquired immunodeficiency, allergic diseases, oncological diseases, examination of recipients before and after organ transplantation, control of antitumor therapy with immunosuppressants and immunomodulators.
Allergy tests - carried out in mandatory for any manifestation of allergies. The tests determine a person’s individual sensitivity to certain allergens. Allergy tests are carried out only by an allergist. The study is usually carried out on the skin of the forearm. Drops of allergens are applied to clean skin and a small scratch is made with a special disposable needle. If after this there is swelling or redness in the area of the skin, it means that the person is predisposed to an allergy to this substance. However, this analysis is not enough to make a diagnosis of allergy; a comprehensive examination is required.
Serological analysis Blood testing is a method of studying certain antibodies or antigens in the blood serum of patients, based on immune reactions. This type research is used for infectious diseases to determine the presence of antibodies in the blood to a certain type of bacteria or virus, as well as to determine the blood group.
Shows the presence of specific proteins (antibodies) to various infections and viruses (syphilis, hepatitis A, B, C, D, E, HIV, toxoplasmosis, chlamydia, rubella, measles, mumps, mycoplasmosis, cytomegalovirus, virus herpes simplex and etc.). When certain antibodies (specific proteins) are detected, a diagnosis of the disease is made. Special training research is not required. Blood is taken from a vein in the morning on an empty stomach.
Hormonal profile study
Hormones - biologically active substances, produced by specialized organs or a group of cells (endocrine glands - pituitary gland, adrenal glands, pancreas, thyroid gland, gonads, etc.). The content of hormones in the blood is insignificant compared to other blood components, but this is enough to affect the entire body. For the normal functioning of the body, a certain ratio of hormones in the blood is important. Hormone testing can help diagnose many diseases. various organs and systems. There are certain norms of hormones in the blood. The level of hormones depends on factors such as gender and age. Various deviations from the norm of hormones ( increased level hormones, deficiency) cause serious changes in the human body and, as a result, a number of diseases. According to the analysis, it is possible to determine disorders in the genital area, endocrine organs, etc. Preparation for the analysis: analysis for some hormones must be taken on certain days; this aspect is very important, since many hormones have a daily rhythm of secretion. The amount of female sex hormones differs on different days of the cycle, so it is optimal to conduct the examination on the 5-7th day of the cycle (counting from the day the menstruation begins). Blood for hormones is taken from a vein in the morning on an empty stomach. The day before and on the day of the test, you should avoid physical activity and stressful situations. 7-10 days before taking blood for hormones, you need to stop taking any medicines. There are many hormones in human blood, but the most complete picture of the state of health can be obtained by taking a hormonal test: for hormones thyroid gland(T4, T3, antibodies to thyroglobulin, etc.); pituitary hormones (TSH, FSH, LH, prolactin); sex hormones (testosterone, estradiol, estriol); adrenal hormones (cortisol, ACTH).
HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) is a special pregnancy hormone. HCG hormone produce embryo membrane cells (chorion). Analysis blood hCG makes early detection of pregnancy possible - already on the 6-10th day after fertilization, the hCG result will be positive. The principle of operation of home pregnancy tests is also based on hCG secreted in the urine.
Determination of blood group and Rh factor
It is necessary and important for every person to know their blood type (for example, to provide medical care V emergency situations). There are certain groups of people for whom this analysis is mandatory. For pregnant women, blood type and Rh factor are determined at the first visit antenatal clinic. The analysis data is entered in the passport in the form of a stamp.
There are four blood groups based on the presence of specific proteins (antigens), which are designated A and B. The blood group and Rh factor remain constant throughout life. There is no connection between blood type and gender. All four blood types are evenly distributed between men and women. There are laws of inheritance of group blood characteristics, these laws are as follows. A child cannot develop group characteristics A, B and Rhesus if the parents do not have them. If parents (one or both) have blood group 0 (I), then their child cannot have group AB (IV). In marriages in which parents (one or both) have blood type AB (IV), a child with blood type 0 (I) cannot be born. If the father and mother have blood type I, then the child can only have type I. If the father and mother have blood group II, then the child will have I or II. If the father and mother have blood group III, then the child can only have blood group I or III, but not II or IV. If the father has blood group II, and the mother has blood type III, the child may have IV.
The Rh factor is a specific blood protein that is detected in most people, and they are called Rh positive; if this protein is not detected - Rh-negative. When a Rh-negative woman is pregnant with a Rh-positive fetus (Rh factor from the father), an Rh conflict may occur, especially if this is not the first pregnancy. When fetal red blood cells enter the mother's bloodstream, anti-Rh antibodies are formed against the Rh factor, which must be determined during any pregnancy in a Rh-negative woman starting from 8 weeks (this is the time the Rh factor is formed in the fetus). Blood from a vein is used for analysis. No special preparation is required for the study.
Blood clotting test
Blood test for coagulation - coagulogram, hemostasiogram. The blood clotting process consists of several successive stages. A coagulogram allows you to identify the characteristics of blood clotting disorders in each patient, which makes it possible to carry out correct treatment. The main parameters of the coagulogram are as follows.
Bleeding time is the time when bleeding stops when the skin is punctured. This is the main test to assess the condition of the vascular wall and platelet function. Normally it is 2-3 minutes.
APTT (activated partial thromboplastin time) is the blood clotting time, depending on the presence of clotting factors, as well as the amount of heparin in the blood. It is used to monitor the level of heparin during treatment with it and to clarify the dosage.
Prothrombin is a protein that is a precursor to thrombin, the most important protein for clotting. Fibrinogen is a plasma protein, a precursor to fibrin, a protein necessary for the formation of a blood clot. It is a protein of the acute phase of inflammation and affects the ESR value.
Antithrombin is a protein of the anticoagulant system, a thrombin inhibitor that ensures the resorption of a blood clot. Its decrease can lead to thrombosis and lack of effect from heparin treatment.
A coagulogram is necessary for vascular diseases, liver diseases, and bleeding. It is necessary to regularly take a blood test for coagulation when using oral contraceptives (once every 3 months), as well as when using anticoagulants (in the treatment of thrombosis, to prevent thrombosis during prosthetics). For the study, blood from a vein is donated on an empty stomach. The analysis allows us to identify insufficient or, conversely, excessive blood clotting ability. Analysis is necessary before planned and emergency surgical operations and in postoperative period, for diseases of the blood, liver, heart, in obstetrics, with varicose veins veins lower limbs, for autoimmune diseases.
Polymerase chain reaction
PCR (polymerase chain reaction) - modern method molecular diagnostics of various urological and gynecological diseases. Today, PCR is the most exact method diagnostics For PCR analysis, blood is taken from a vein or a smear from the vagina or urethra. The results of the analysis show the presence of various viruses or bacteria in the body. PCR never gives false negative results, but this test has one drawback due to its extreme sensitivity; it often gives false positive results, since the sample is very easily contaminated with foreign DNA, because only one molecule is enough for this.
Tests for tumor markers
Tests for tumor markers are the detection of proteins produced by cells various tumors, which in their functions differ greatly from normal substances in the body or are produced in quantities significantly exceeding the norm. Normally, only embryonic cells produce tumor markers. The content of a tumor marker in the blood of an adult is a signal of a tumor disease in the body. Early detection Tumor markers are very important for the early diagnosis of cancer. Each malignant or benign neoplasm releases its own specific cancer antigen. Most often, to diagnose cancer, blood is tested for the following antigens: AFP, hCG, PSA, CEA, CA-125, CA 15-3, CA 19-9. Along with other research methods, tumor markers are given to the attending physician Additional information about the presence or absence of a tumor in the body. Blood for tumor markers must be donated in the morning on an empty stomach. Blood is taken from a vein.
Interesting Facts about blood
An altitude of 19,200 meters above sea level (Armstrong Limit) is the place where the pressure drops to such an extent that the blood in human body boils.
None of the inhabitants of the New World, before colonization by Europeans, had a third blood type.
It takes only 6 seconds for blood to travel from the heart to the lungs and back again, only 8 seconds to reach the brain and back, and 16 seconds to reach the fingers and return.
The amount of blood that the heart pumps per human life average duration, is equal to the amount of water flowing from a fully powered faucet for 45 years.
The first blood transfusion in Russia was performed on April 20, 1832 by St. Petersburg obstetrician Andrei Wolf.
Leukocytes in the human body live 2-4 days, and erythrocytes - 3-4 months.
The blood temperature of fish in Antarctica can reach -1.7 degrees Celsius.
Cats have three blood groups - second (A), third (B) and fourth (AB).
The volume of blood circulating in the body in men is on average 5-6 liters, in women - 4-4.5 liters.
Some see a relationship between blood type and diet. For example, owners of the oldest blood group (I) are recommended to adhere to a high-protein diet - eat meat (except pork), fish and seafood. Any vegetables and fruits are healthy, except sour ones. It is better to avoid wheat and wheat products, and corn in the diet.
But people with blood group II are prone to oncological diseases, anemia, heart, liver and stomach diseases. They are recommended to adhere to a vegetarian diet - limit the consumption of dairy products, replace them with soy products, and it is recommended to eat cereals, fruits and fish.
It is believed that people with III group blood due to an incorrect diet, instability to rare viral diseases, syndrome chronic fatigue. Therefore, they are recommended to adhere to a balanced diet - eat meat (except poultry), eggs, cereals, vegetables (except corn, tomatoes), and fruits. It is not recommended to eat seafood.
The “youngest” blood group is IV; its owners are not advised to indulge in seafood, nuts, cereals, vegetables and non-acidic fruits.
Health and happiness to you, take care of your blood from a young age!
26.09.2017Diagnostic measures are carried out to clarify the diagnosis, identify concomitant diseases, causes of illness and choice suitable treatment. This applies to atherosclerosis, ischemia, and conditions when a blood test is taken.
One of the indicators in the test results is the state of platelets. Blood cells are responsible for the restoration of the walls blood vessels the formation of a blood clot that plugs the injury.
Platelets are blood cells produced by the bone marrow
No one can avoid injuries throughout life - abrasions, cuts to fingers, when... skin covering bleeding. The injuries are not life-threatening, and the bleeding stops on its own within a few minutes.
Platelets participate in this process, and with their help the wound is clogged. Not all people's bleeding stops easily; if there is not enough hemostatic substances in the blood, this condition is called hemophilia. With such a disease, you need to avoid injuries and cuts, and if they occur, seek medical help.
Platelets are blood cells produced by the bone marrow.
These blood components have the following functions:
- primary blockage of blood vessels, which prevents blood loss;
- formation of blood clots blocking vascular damage;
- cellular restoration and division - the inner surface of blood vessels consumes a lot of platelets for these processes.
If the study reveals a high level of platelets, this indicates increased blood clotting, which leads to the formation of blood clots in the vessels.
How is a clinical test performed?
To prepare for a blood test, you need to stick to a diet, give up alcoholic beverages and smoking, soda and fatty foods.
In the morning, the test is taken on an empty stomach; you cannot drink tea. For deep vein thrombosis, a blood test is taken, but anticoagulants are suspended to get the result.
Blood testing must be done on an empty stomach
A clinical blood test reveals:
- Availability inflammatory process in organism;
- malfunction of the immune system;
- clotting disorder;
- diseases of the hematopoietic organs.
The analysis is prescribed for pregnant women, for thrombophlebitis and varicose veins, vascular and heart diseases, and other conditions.
Types of tests to detect thrombosis
Considering that there are types of platelets (old and mature, young and degenerate). Accurate diagnosis placed on the basis of assessing the state of a group of blood cells and their relationship with each other. The studies listed below are carried out.
Several blood tests are performed to detect thrombosis
If the doctor's referral contains a name, a test for blood clots:
- to the protein component. AT-III is produced in the liver and blood vessels. The component is necessary to dissolve blood clots and reduce clotting. If the level of the protein component is reduced, it threatens thrombosis and complications;
- on APTT. This test allows you to evaluate the mechanism of blood clot formation without disturbances vascular walls. If the APTT is reduced, the risk of vessel occlusion increases, and increased rate APTT indicates vitamin K deficiency;
- on INR - what is the name of a blood test for blood clots, when the time of formation of a blood clot is assessed in a normal state or while taking anticoagulants;
- on the PTI index - the period during which a fibrin clot forms in the blood. Deviations in PTI (prothrombin time index) indicators indicate certain pathologies. A decrease in PTI indicates vein thrombosis; a similar condition is observed at the end of pregnancy, while taking hormones and medications. An increase in PTI indicates vitamin K deficiency and liver pathology;
- for lupus anticoagulant. Antibodies are pathological in nature; they alter the blood clotting process and lead to antiphospholipid syndrome. Changes provoke bleeding and lead to thrombosis;
- on the rate of blood clotting. This is a common analysis. The laboratory technician observes how fibrin polymerizes - the longer the reaction occurs, the higher the risk of bleeding. If the reaction occurs quickly, there is an increased risk of blockage of blood vessels;
- for the presence of natural anticoagulant substances - proteins C and S, which interact with each other. If there are few of them, this leads to thrombosis at a young age;
- to the D-dimer level. During the breakdown of fibrin, D-dimer appears, the level of which indicates the number of fibrin formations that can dissolve. If the test result is negative, then there is no thrombosis.
The main test for blood clots is a test for prothrombin, produced by the liver. It indicates the state of the blood and pathologies developing in the organ.
Coagulogram
For blood testing, blood is taken from a vein; the required amount is 5 ml. Blood is donated in the morning on an empty stomach, the laboratory assistant places it in a test tube with a special anticoagulant. The result will show the percentage of the above platelet groups present. There are also situations when a certain platelet ratio does not exceed the normal range, but the efficiency of blood cells is insufficient due to the large number of degenerative and immature forms of platelets. In case of thrombosis, such a study is prescribed in parallel with ultrasound of blood vessels to identify blood clots in them and determine how impaired coagulation is. In the first study, a basic analysis is performed, and if thrombosis is detected, a detailed study is indicated.
A coagulogram will help check blood clotting
A coagulogram allows you to determine thrombin time, fibrinogen, PTI and other characteristics that indicate the risk of blood clots in blood vessels. If the values listed above are elevated, this is fraught with the formation of blood clots and embolism, which is life-threatening in patients with thrombophlebitis - if it breaks off, the blood clot can reach the heart and brain with the blood, which will lead to death. The doctor does not always need a complete coagulogram.
Depending on the need, he can check the blood count:
- fibrinogen. This is a protein that is involved in the formation of blood clots. It is found in the blood in dissolved form. Normally, its indicators are 2-4 g per 1 liter. If fibrinogen levels are reduced, then blood clotting is also reduced. And if the amount of fibrinogen exceeds the norm, then there is a risk of blood clots;
- coagulability and prothrombin. When a test for thrombophlebitis is prescribed, its result can confirm or refute the presence of the disease. Also, with the help of such a study, the doctor monitors the effectiveness of the drugs prescribed to normalize coagulation. The normal prothrombin index is 95-105%. For adults, a clotting rate of 101-5 seconds is considered normal.
Molecular genetic analysis
This test is performed to confirm thrombophlebitis when a phlebologist suspects a hereditary cause of the disease, wants to assess the risk of complications, or plans preventive measures. Other tests are carried out in the laboratory - biochemical, clinical, immunological.
Molecular genetic analysis is performed to confirm thrombophlebitis
If a person is at risk for thrombosis, he must undergo most tests. You can learn about risks, prevention and tests from your doctor.
Who needs to get tested for blood clots?
Thrombosis occurs in people whose family has a similar disease. They need to monitor their health, regularly undergo preventive examinations, follow medical recommendations to identify blood clots in the body, there are studies:
- duplex scanning using ultrasound. Evaluates the speed of blood flow and the diameter of the vessel bed. During the examination, the doctor discovers a blood clot;
- Phlebography is an x-ray of blood vessels using a contrast agent. Diagnostics allows you to evaluate the structure of the vessel;
- angiography - an x-ray of brain vessels that can detect a blood clot;
- blood test for coagulability, cholesterol, biochemistry.
Ultrasound is performed to detect thrombosis
To get results in an accelerated manner, ultrasound with Doppler ultrasound is prescribed. Unfortunately, such research is not carried out in obese patients. Instead, venography is prescribed.
If thrombosis of the legs is suspected, diagnostics is aimed at detecting a blood clot, identifying its characteristics (density, fixation on the walls of the vessel, length, etc.).
On ultrasonic duplex scanning It is possible to identify blood clots that do not manifest standard symptoms. Such clinical picture is explained by blood flow along bypass routes, bypassing the blocked area.
Asymptomatic thrombosis is very dangerous, since a person does not even suspect that he is risking his health and life. Untimely treatment is fraught with complete blockage of the vessel and a risk to organs and health in general. Therefore, a preventive examination once a year is of paramount importance.
