What is an obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) test? Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a type of anxiety disorder. It causes repeated unwanted thoughts and fears (obsessions). To get rid of obsessions, people with OCD may perform certain actions over and over again (compulsions). Most people with OCD know that their compulsions don’t make sense, but still can’t stop doing […]
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What is opioid testing? Opioid testing looks for the presence of opioids in urine, blood, or saliva. Opioids are powerful drugs that are used to relieve pain. They are often prescribed to help treat serious injuries or illnesses. In addition to reducing pain, opioids can also increase feelings of pleasure and well-being. Once an opioid
What are osmolality tests? Osmolality tests measure the amount of certain substances in blood, urine, or stool. These include glucose (sugar), urea (a waste product made in the liver), and several electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, and chloride. Electrolytes are electrically charged minerals. They help control the amount of fluids in your body. The test can
What is an ova and parasite test? An ova and parasite test looks for parasites and their eggs (ova) in a sample of your stool. A parasite is a tiny plant or animal that gets nutrients by living off another creature. Parasites can live in your digestive system and cause illness. These are known as intestinal parasites. Intestinal
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What is a panic disorder test? Panic disorder is a condition in which you have frequent panic attacks. A panic attack is a sudden episode of intense fear and anxiety. In addition to emotional distress, a panic attack can cause physical symptoms. These include chest pain, rapid heartbeat, and shortness of breath. During a panic attack, some people think
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What is a Pap smear? A Pap smear is a test for women that can help find or prevent cervical cancer. During the procedure, cells are collected from the cervix, which is the lower, narrow end of the uterus that opens into the vagina. The cells are checked for cancer or for signs that they may
What is a parathyroid hormone (PTH) test? This test measures the level of parathyroid hormone (PTH) in the blood. PTH, also known as parathormone, is made by your parathyroid glands. These are four pea-sized glands in your neck. PTH controls the level of calcium in the blood. Calcium is a mineral that keeps your bones and teeth healthy and strong.
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What is a PTT (partial thromboplastin time) test? A partial thromboplastin time (PTT) test measures the time it takes for a blood clot to form. Normally, when you get a cut or injury that causes bleeding, proteins in your blood called coagulation factors work together to form a blood clot. The clot stops you from losing too
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What is a PDL1 test? This test measures the amount of PDL1 on cancer cells. PDL1 is a protein that helps keep immune cells from attacking nonharmful cells in the body. Normally, the immune system fights foreign substances like viruses and bacteria, and not your own healthy cells. Some cancer cells have high amounts of PDL1. This allows the
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What is pharmacogenetic testing? Pharmacogenetics, also called pharmacogenomics, is the study of how genes affect the body’s response to certain medicines. Genes are parts of DNA passed down from your mother and father. They carry information that determines your unique traits, such as height and eye color. Your genes can also affect how safe and effective
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