What is a sputum culture? A sputum culture is a test that checks for bacteria or another type of organism that may be causing an infection in your lungs or the airways leading to the lungs. Sputum, also known as phlegm, is a thick type of mucus made in your lungs. If you have an […]
What is a sodium blood test? A sodium blood test measures the amount of sodium in your blood. Sodium is a type of electrolyte. Electrolytes are electrically charged minerals that help maintain fluid levels and the balance of chemicals in your body called acids and bases. Sodium also helps your nerves and muscles work properly. You get most
What is a smooth muscle antibody (SMA) test? This test looks for smooth muscle antibodies (SMAs) in the blood. A smooth muscle antibody (SMA) is a type of antibody known as an autoantibody. Normally, your immune system makes antibodies to attack foreign substances like viruses and bacteria. An autoantibody attacks the body’s own cells and tissues by
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What is a skin cancer screening? A skin cancer screening is a visual exam of the skin that can be done by yourself or a health care provider. The screening checks the skin for moles, birthmarks, or other marks that are unusual in colour, size, shape, or texture. Certain unusual marks may be signs of skin cancer. Skin cancer
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What is a skin biopsy? A skin biopsy is a procedure that removes a small sample of skin for testing. The skin sample is looked at under a microscope to check for skin cancer, skin infections, or skin disorders such as psoriasis. There are three main ways to do a skin biopsy: A punch biopsy, which uses a special circular tool to
What is an SHBG blood test? This test measures the levels of SHBG in your blood. SHBG stands for sex hormone-binding globulin. It’s a protein made by the liver and attaches itself to sex hormones found in both men and women. These hormones are: Testosterone, the main sex hormone in men Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), another male sex hormone
What is a semen analysis? A semen analysis, also called a sperm count, measures the quantity and quality of a man’s semen and sperm. Semen is the thick, white fluid released from the penis during a man’s sexual climax (orgasm). This release is called ejaculation. Semen contains sperm, the cells in a man that carry
What is a salicylates level test? This test measures the amount of salicylates in the blood. Salicylates are a type of drug found in many over-the-counter and prescription medicines. Aspirin is the most common type of salicylate. Popular brand name aspirins include Bayer and Ecotrin. Aspirin and other salicylates are most often used to reduce pain, fever, and inflammation.
What is a rheumatoid factor (RF) test? A rheumatoid factor (RF) test measures the amount of rheumatoid factor (RF) in your blood. Rheumatoid factors are proteins produced by the immune system. Normally, the immune system attacks disease-causing substances like viruses and bacteria. Rheumatoid factors attack healthy joints, glands, or other normal cells by mistake. An RF
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White Blood Count (WBC) What is a white blood count (WBC)? A white blood count measures the number of white cells in your blood. White blood cells are part of the immune system. They help your body fight off infections and other diseases. When you get sick, your body makes more white blood cells to
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