What is a homocysteine test? A homocysteine test measures the amount of homocysteine in your blood. Homocysteine is a type of amino acid, a chemical your body uses to make proteins. Normally, vitamin B12, vitamin B6, and folic acid break down homocysteine and change it into other substances your body needs. There should be very little homocysteine left […]
What is an HIV viral load? An HIV viral load is a blood test that measures the amount of HIV in your blood. HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus. HIV is a virus that attacks and destroys cells in the immune system. These cells protect your body against viruses, bacteria, and other disease-causing germs. If you lose too
What is an HIV test? An HIV test shows whether you are infected with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus). HIV is a virus that attacks and destroys cells in the immune system. These cells protect your body against disease-causing germs, such as bacteria and viruses. If you lose too many immune cells, your body will have trouble fighting off
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What is a herpes (HSV) test? Herpes is a skin infection caused by the herpes simplex virus, known as HSV. HSV causes painful blisters or sores in different parts of the body. There are two main types of HSV: HSV-1, which usually causes blisters or cold sores around the mouth (oral herpes) HSV-2, which usually causes blisters or sores in the genital
What is HER2 breast cancer testing? HER2 stands for human epidermal growth factor receptor 2. It is a gene that makes a protein found on the surface of all breast cells. It is involved in normal cell growth. Genes are the basic units of heredity, passed down from your mother and father. In certain cancers, especially breast
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What is a hepatitis panel? Hepatitis is a type of liver disease. Viruses called hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C are the most common causes of hepatitis. A hepatitis panel is a blood test that checks to see if you have a hepatitis infection caused by one of these viruses. The viruses are spread in different ways and cause
What is a haemoglobin test? A haemoglobin test measures the levels of haemoglobin in your blood. Haemoglobin is a protein in your red blood cells that carries oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. If your haemoglobin levels are abnormal, it may be a sign that you have a blood disorder. Other names:
What is hemoglobin electrophoresis? Haemoglobin is a protein in your red blood cells that carries oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. There are several different types of haemoglobin. Haemoglobin electrophoresis is a test that measures the different types of haemoglobin in the blood. It also looks for abnormal types of haemoglobin. Normal
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What is a hematocrit test? A hematocrit test is a type of blood test. Your blood is made up of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. These cells and platelets are suspended in a liquid called plasma. A hematocrit test measures how much of your blood is made up of red blood cells. Red
What are helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) tests? Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a type of bacteria that infects the digestive system. Many people with H. pylori will never have symptoms of infection. But for others, the bacteria can cause a variety of digestive disorders. These include gastritis (inflammation of the stomach), peptic ulcers (sores in the stomach, small
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