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Showing posts from October, 2025

Prolactin Test: Purpose, Procedure & Understanding Abnormal Levels

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Summary The Prolactin Test (PRL test) measures the level of prolactin , a hormone produced by the pituitary gland , located at the base of the brain. Prolactin plays a vital role in breast development during pregnancy and milk production after childbirth. Normally, prolactin levels remain low in men and non-pregnant women. However, abnormally high levels — a condition known as hyperprolactinemia — may indicate pituitary gland disorders , hormonal imbalances , or certain medic al conditions such as hypothyroidism or kidney disease . This test helps identify underlying causes of infertility , menstrual irregularities , low libido , or galactorrhea (milk secretion in non-lactating individuals) . What Is a Prolactin Test? A prolactin blood test evaluates the amount of prolactin hormone circulating in your bloodstream. Produced by: Pituitary gland (the body’s “master gland”) Main function: Stimulates breast tissue growth and milk production in new mothers ...

Protein in Urine Test (Proteinuria) — Causes, Diagnosis & Meaning

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  What is a Protein in Urine Test? A protein in urine test measures how much protein is present in your urine sample. In healthy individuals, only a small amount of protein is excreted. When kidney filters (glomeruli) become damaged or inflamed, they allow more protein to pass into the urine. This test helps detect early kidney dysfunction and monitor existing renal diseases or systemic disorders like diabetes and hypertension . Other names: Urine protein test 24-hour urine protein Urine total protein Protein-to-creatinine ratio (PCR) Dipstick urinalysis Why is the Test Done? Your doctor may recommend a urine protein test as part of a routine check-up , to monitor a known kidney condition , or when symptoms suggest kidney dysfunction. It’s also included in a complete urinalysis , which checks urine color, concentration, pH, and the presence of glucose, blood, or bacteria. Conditions Linked to Protein in Urine: Chronic...

Triglycerides Test – Purpose, Procedure, and Understanding Your Results

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Summary A triglycerides test measures the amount of triglycerides — a type of fat (lipid) — present in your blood. While triglycerides are essential for energy, high levels can significantly increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and pancreatitis . Triglycerides are the most common form of fat in your body and serve as a vital source of energy. After you eat, your body converts unused calories into triglycerides, which are stored in fat cells. Between meals, these stored fats are released to provide energy. However, when triglyceride levels become too high, they can lead to serious health problems, including heart disease , stroke , and pancreatitis . Monitoring these levels through a triglycerides test is crucial for maintaining cardiovascular health. What Is a Triglycerides Test? A triglycerides test is a simple blood test that checks the concentration of triglycerides in your bloodstream. Triglycerides are fats your body uses for energy. After eating, your b...

Testosterone Levels Test – Understanding Its Purpose, Procedure, and Results

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  What Is a Testosterone Levels Test? A testosterone test evaluates the concentration of testosterone circulating in your bloodstream. Hormones like testosterone act as chemical messengers , guiding several body processes — from reproductive function to muscle development. Although testosterone levels are much higher in men, women also produce it in smaller amounts through the ovaries and adrenal glands . Testosterone exists in two forms: Free testosterone: Unbound and active, directly available for body functions. Bound testosterone: Attached to proteins such as SHBG (Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin) and albumin , serving as a reserve. The test may include: Total Testosterone Test – measures both free and bound testosterone (most common). Free Testosterone Test – assesses only the unbound form. Bioavailable Testosterone Test – measures free and loosely bound testosterone, excluding SHBG-bound types. P...

Drug Testing – Purpose, Process & What Results Mean

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  🔹 What is a Drug Test? A drug test detects chemical substances or their metabolites that may affect the body or mind. While urine is the most common sample type, blood, saliva, hair, fingernails, breath, and sweat can also be used depending on the situation. Drug tests screen for one or more drugs, including: Alcohol Amphetamines (e.g., methamphetamine, MDMA) Barbiturates (e.g., phenobarbital, secobarbital) Benzodiazepines (e.g., alprazolam, clonazepam) Cocaine Marijuana (THC, cannabis) Opioids & Opiates (e.g., heroin, codeine, morphine, fentanyl, oxycodone) Phencyclidine (PCP) Anabolic steroids The detection window — how long a drug stays in your system — depends on: The type and dose of drug used Frequency and duration of use Metabolism and body composition Overall health and hydration 🔹 Purpose of Drug Testing Drug testing is widely used to check for drug u...

Lipase Test – Purpose, Procedure, and What Your Results Mean

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  What is a Lipase Test? A Lipase Test checks how much of the lipase enzyme is present in your blood. Lipase helps your body digest fats by breaking them down in the small intestine . Under normal conditions, only a small amount of lipase circulates in the blood. However, if the pancreas is injured or inflamed, large quantities of the enzyme leak into the bloodstream. This test helps identify: Pancreatitis (acute or chronic) Pancreatic blockages or tumors Digestive and metabolic disorders Also known as: Serum Lipase, Lipase, LPS Test. Purpose of the Lipase Test Doctors may recommend this test to: Diagnose acute or chronic pancreatitis Monitor pancreatic function or treatment response Detect blockages, cysts, or tumors in the pancreas Evaluate conditions like Crohn’s disease , celiac disease , and cystic fibrosis Identify intestinal injury , peritonitis , or gallbladder disorders Why You May ...