What is myelography? Myelography also called a myelogram, is an imaging test that checks for problems in your spinal canal. The spinal canal contains your spinal cord, nerve roots, and the subarachnoid space. The subarachnoid space is a fluid-filled space between the spinal cord and the membrane that covers it. During the test, a contrast dye […]
What is a pleural fluid analysis? Pleural fluid is a liquid that is located between the layers of the pleura. The pleura is a two-layer membrane that covers the lungs and lines the chest cavity. The area that contains pleural fluid is known as the pleural space. Normally, there is a small amount of pleural
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What is phosphate in a urine test? A phosphate in urine test measures the amount of phosphate in your urine. Phosphate is an electrically charged particle that contains the mineral phosphorus. Phosphorus works together with the mineral calcium to build strong bones and teeth. It also plays an essential role in nerve function and how the body uses energy.
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What is phosphate in a blood test? A phosphate in blood test measures the amount of phosphate in your blood. Phosphate is an electrically charged particle that contains the mineral phosphorus. Phosphorus works together with the mineral calcium to build strong bones and teeth. Normally, the kidneys filter and remove excess phosphate from the blood. If phosphate levels in
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What is a PKU screening test? A PKU screening test is a blood test given to newborns 24–72 hours after birth. PKU stands for phenylketonuria, a rare disorder that prevents the body from properly breaking down a substance called phenylalanine (Phe). Phe is part of proteins that are found in many foods and in an artificial sweetener called
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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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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 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 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 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