What is a CA 19-9 blood test? This test measures the amount of a protein called CA 19-9 (cancer antigen 19-9) in the blood. CA 19-9 is a type of tumour marker. Tumour markers are substances made by cancer cells or by normal cells in response to cancer in the body. Healthy people can have small amounts […]
CA 19-9 Blood Test (Pancreatic Cancer) Read More »
What is C. diff testing? C. diff testing checks for signs of a C. diff infection, a serious, sometimes life-threatening disease of the digestive tract. C. diff, also known as C. difficile, stands for Clostridium difficile. It is a type of bacteria found in your digestive tract. There are many types of bacteria that live in
What is a c-reactive protein (CRP) test? A c-reactive protein test measures the level of c-reactive protein (CRP) in your blood. CRP is a protein made by your liver. It’s sent into your bloodstream in response to inflammation. Inflammation is your body’s way of protecting your tissues if you’ve been injured or have an infection.
C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Test Read More »
What is a C-peptide test? This test measures the level of C-peptide in your blood or urine. C-peptide is a substance made in the pancreas, along with insulin. Insulin is a hormone that controls the body’s glucose (blood sugar) levels. Glucose is your body’s main source of energy. If your body doesn’t make the right amount of
What is a burn evaluation? A burn is a type of injury to the skin and/or other tissues. The skin is the largest organ in your body. It is essential for protecting the body against injury and infection. It also helps control body temperature. When skin is injured or damaged by a burn, it can be very
What is a BUN (blood urea nitrogen) test? A BUN, or blood urea nitrogen test, can provide important information about your kidney function. The main job of your kidneys is to remove waste and extra fluid from your body. If you have kidney disease, this waste material can build up in your blood and may lead
BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen) Read More »
What are bronchoscopy and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL)? Bronchoscopy is a procedure that allows a health care provider to look at your lungs. It uses a thin, lighted tube called a bronchoscope. The tube is put through the mouth or nose and moved down the throat and into the airways. It helps diagnose and treat certain lung
Bronchoscopy and Bronchoalveolar Lavage (BAL) Read More »
What is a BRCA test? A BRCA test looks for changes, known as mutations, in genes called BRCA1 and BRCA2. 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 colour. Genes are also responsible for certain health conditions. BRCA1
What is a BRAF genetic test? A BRAF genetic test looks for a change, known as a mutation, in a gene called BRAF. Genes are the basic units of heredity passed down from your mother and father. The BRAF gene makes a protein that helps control cell growth. It’s known as an oncogene. An oncogene works like
What are bone marrow tests? Bone marrow is a soft, spongy tissue found in the center of most bones. Bone marrow makes different types of blood cells. These include: Red blood cells (also called erythrocytes), which carry oxygen from your lungs to every cell in your body White blood cells (also called leukocytes), which help