CRP is a protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation. It is elevated when there’s systemic inflammation in the body. Testing CRP helps assess the level of inflammation, which is useful for diagnosing and monitoring inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis (RA), lupus, or psoriatic arthritis.
ESR measures how quickly red blood cells settle at the bottom of a test tube. A faster-than-normal rate can indicate inflammation. Like CRP, it is a nonspecific marker used to detect inflammation associated with various forms of arthritis, including RA and lupus. ESR helps monitor disease activity and response to treatment.
ANA tests detect antibodies that target the nucleus of cells. A positive ANA test can indicate an autoimmune condition, such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or Sjögren’s syndrome. It is often the first test ordered when autoimmune diseases are suspected, though it is not specific to any single disease.
ANCA tests look for antibodies that attack certain white blood cells (neutrophils). A positive ANCA test is associated with vasculitis, an inflammation of the blood vessels, which can be a feature of autoimmune conditions. It helps diagnose specific types of vasculitis that may affect joint and tissue health.
Rheumatoid factor is an antibody often found in the blood of people with rheumatoid arthritis. Elevated RF levels suggest an autoimmune process, particularly RA. While not entirely specific to RA (it can be elevated in other conditions), it helps with diagnosis when combined with clinical symptoms and other markers.
Uric acid is a waste product formed when the body breaks down purines (substances found in certain foods and drinks). Elevated uric acid levels in the blood can lead to gout, a type of arthritis characterized by sudden, severe joint pain. Testing for uric acid helps diagnose gout and monitor its management.
Each of these tests helps identify different aspects of inflammation, autoimmunity, or metabolic imbalances that contribute to arthritis and joint health issues.
Cortisol is the body’s primary stress hormone, produced by the adrenal glands. It plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, blood sugar levels, and the body’s response to stress. High or low cortisol levels can indicate adrenal dysfunction, chronic stress, Cushing’s syndrome (excess cortisol), or Addison’s disease (low cortisol).
DHEA-S is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that serves as a precursor to sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone. It helps counterbalance the effects of cortisol and supports overall hormone balance. Low levels may suggest adrenal insufficiency or aging, while elevated levels can be linked to conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
HIV testing detects antibodies and/or antigens in the blood to determine if a person is infected with HIV. Early detection helps in managing the disease and preventing transmission, as well as initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART) if necessary.
This test detects the presence of the Hepatitis B virus (HBV) in the blood. A positive result indicates an active infection, either acute or chronic. It helps in identifying those who can transmit the virus and requires monitoring or treatment.
This test checks for antibodies to the Hepatitis C virus (HCV), indicating either a past or current infection. If positive, further testing is usually needed to confirm an active infection, as the body can sometimes clear the virus on its own.
This test detects antibodies produced in response to the bacterium Treponema pallidum, the cause of syphilis. A positive result suggests current or past infection. Early detection is important for treatment and preventing complications.
Iron
Measures the amount of iron circulating in the blood. Low levels can indicate iron deficiency anemia, while high levels might suggest iron overload or liver disorders.
Ferritin
A protein that stores iron in the body. Low ferritin levels suggest iron deficiency, while high levels may indicate inflammation, liver disease, or iron overload conditions like hemochromatosis.
Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC)
Reflects the blood’s capacity to bind and transport iron. High TIBC often indicates iron deficiency, while low levels may suggest iron overload or malnutrition.
Transferrin
A protein that binds to iron and transports it through the bloodstream. Transferrin levels increase in iron deficiency and decrease in iron overload or malnutrition.
Transferrin Saturation
The percentage of transferrin that is saturated with iron. Low transferrin saturation indicates iron deficiency, while high saturation suggests iron overload.
Albumin
A protein produced by the liver, essential for maintaining blood volume and transporting nutrients. Low levels can indicate malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney disorders.
Calcium (Adjusted)
Measures calcium levels in the blood, adjusted for protein levels to assess true calcium status. Calcium is vital for bone health, nerve function, and muscle contraction. Low levels suggest calcium deficiency or parathyroid issues.
Magnesium
A mineral crucial for nerve and muscle function, bone health, and energy production. Low magnesium can lead to muscle weakness, heart arrhythmias, or metabolic issues.
Iron
Essential for oxygen transport in red blood cells. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, fatigue, and weakness, while excessive iron may cause organ damage.
Folic Acid (Folate)
A B-vitamin important for DNA synthesis, red blood cell production, and preventing neural tube defects in pregnancy. Low levels cause anemia and can affect cell function.
Vitamin B12
Essential for nerve function, DNA synthesis, and red blood cell production. Deficiency can lead to anemia and neurological problems, such as numbness or memory loss.
Zinc
A trace mineral important for immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis. Deficiency can impair immune response, skin health, and healing.
Vitamin D
Vital for calcium absorption, bone health, and immune function. Low levels cause bone weakness, while deficiency is linked to various health issues, including osteoporosis and immune dysfunction.
PSA is a protein produced by the prostate gland. It is used as a marker to screen for prostate health, including conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer. Elevated PSA levels can indicate prostate inflammation, enlargement, or malignancy.
Testosterone
The main male sex hormone, responsible for sexual development, muscle mass, and libido. Measured to assess male reproductive health, hormonal imbalances, and conditions like hypogonadism or infertility.
Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG)
A protein that binds to sex hormones like testosterone and estrogen, controlling the amount of free (active) hormone available in the bloodstream. High SHBG reduces free testosterone, while low levels increase it. SHBG levels help evaluate hormonal balance and testosterone availability.
Free Androgen Index (FAI)
A calculation used to estimate the amount of biologically active (free) testosterone. It’s determined by dividing the total testosterone by SHBG. It helps assess testosterone activity, especially in conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or low testosterone levels in men.
Free Testosterone
The fraction of testosterone that is not bound to SHBG or albumin, making it biologically active. It provides a more accurate measure of hormone availability compared to total testosterone alone and is important for diagnosing hormonal disorders.
Albumin
A protein produced by the liver that binds to and transports testosterone and other substances in the blood. It’s also a general indicator of nutritional and liver health. Albumin-bound testosterone is weakly bound and thus biologically active, contributing to overall free testosterone levels.
