What Do All the Blood Test Results Mean?

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What Do All the Blood Test

Results Mean?

Explaining

the Blood Test Results

Blood count:

This test measures the amount

of hemoglobin, red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets in your blood.

Results may indicate you have anemia, which commonly occurs in lupus. Low white

blood cell counts may occur as well.

Erythrocyte

sedimentation rate:

This blood test determines

the rate at which red blood cells settle to the bottom of a tube. A

faster-than-normal rate may indicate a systemic disease such as lupus. The

sedimentation rate is not specific for one disease but may be elevated in

lupus, other inflammatory conditions or with infection.

Kidney and liver

assessment:

A blood test can assess how

well your kidneys and liver are functioning. Lupus may affect these organs as

well as other systemic organs.

Urinalysis:

An examination of a sample of

your urine may show an increased protein level, which may occur if lupus has

affected your kidneys.

Antinuclear antibody

(ANA) test:

A positive test for the

presence of these antibodies .. produced by your immune system ..

indicates a stimulated immune system and is common if you have lupus or another

autoimmune disease. Your doctor may advise more specific antibody testing and

refer you to a rheumatologist. (More info here.. http://www.itzarion.com/lupusana.html

)

Chest X-ray:

An image of your chest and

pleura, which surrounds your lungs, may reveal abnormal shadows or inflammation

of your lungs, which may occur with lupus.

Electrocardiogram

(ECG):

This test measures the

pattern of electrical impulses generated in your heart. It can help identify

irregular rhythms, damage to your heart or enlargement of your heart, any of

which may occur with lupus.

Syphilis test:

If your doctor orders a

syphilis test, it's not because he or she thinks you might have syphilis.

Rather, a false-positive to a syphilis test can indicate antiphospholipid antibodies

in your blood. The presence of antiphospholipid antibodies has been associated

with an increased risk of blood clots, strokes and recurrent miscarriages.

EXPLAINING BLOOD TESTS

Complete Blood Count

(CBC):

White Cell Count relates to the body's immune

system. Recent colds, allergies, infections, or chemical exposures may cause

this value to be high or low.

Red Cell Count refers to the red blood cells.

These cells carry oxygen in the blood. Low values are commonly seen in individuals

with certain types of anemia.

Hemoglobin (HgB) is the oxygen carrying component

in the red blood cell. It is formed in the bone marrow. Low values are commonly

seen in individuals with certain types of anemia.

Hematocrit (Hct) - is the volume (percentage) of

red blood cells in whole blood. Low values are commonly seen in individuals

with certain types of anemia.

MCV stands for mean cell volume. This

is a measure of the average size of the red blood cells.

MCH stands for mean cell hemoglobin. This

is a measure of the amount of hemoglobin associated with each red cell.

MCHC stands for mean cell hemoglobin

concentration. This value represents the mean hemoglobin concentration in each

red blood cell.

Platelet Count refers to the disk shaped structures

found in the blood, primarily known for their role in the coagulation process.

Neutrophils, Lymphocytes, Monocytes,

Eosinophils, and Basophils are the different types of white blood cells. A detailed

look at all of the white cells will provide a physician with useful information

regarding the status of the immune system.

RBC Morphology refers to the size and the shape

of the red blood cells obtained in your blood sample.

Blood Chemistry Panel:

Glucose is a measure of sugar content in

your blood. This value is watched closely to evaluate diabetes or hypoglycemia.

This test needs to be performed in a fasted(no eating) state. Your blood sugar

should be between 60-120 mg/dl to be considered normal.

Urea Nitrogen (BUN) is a waste product of protein metabolism.

It is produced in the liver and excreted by the kidneys. When protein

metabolism is not working properly, high values may occur. Low values need not

always be followed with your personal physician.

Creatinine is another waste product of

protein metabolism. It represents the function of the kidneys. A low value is

not clinically significant.

Iron is the most sensitive indicator of

your iron stores (in the absence of liver disease or inflammation). Low values

may represent certain types of anemia and should be evaluated by your personal

physician.

Calcium is involved in many physiologic

processes. A normal blood calcium level is essential for normal function of the

heart, nerves, and muscles. It is also involved in the coagulation process.

Phosphorus is an essential element in the

diet. It is a major component of the mineral phase of bone and occurs in all

tissues, being involved in almost all metabolic processes. Calcium is

controlled by the kidneys and parathyroid glands. Processing errors may affect

this value.

Uric Acid is a constituent in the blood

which transports nitrogen in the body. It is normally excreted in the urine to

rid the body of nitrogen. Values that are high may indicate gout, arthritis or

certain kidney problems. A low value is not clinically significant.

Sodium is an ion that is important in the

conduction of nerves, contraction of muscles, and functioning of cells. It is

controlled primarily by the kidneys and adrenal glands.

Potassium is important for muscles and

nerves to function properly. It is controlled by the kidneys. This value is

watched very closely if one is taking diuretics or cardiovascular medications.

If the blood sample is not processed properly, high values may occur.

Chloride, like sodium and potassium, is an

ion that is important in the functioning of cells. It is primarily controlled

by the kidneys and adrenal glands.

Total Protein is the total amount of protein

circulating in the blood. This value represents your general nutritional

habits.

Albumin is a carbohydrate-free plasma

protein which transports fatty acids, bilirubin, and poorly saturated hormones.

It also serves as a reserve store of protein. High values are not clinically

significant.

Globulin is a protein fraction. Elevated

values may indicate chronic infections and should be followed-up by your

personal physician.

A/G Ratio is a ratio between Albumin and

Globulin. Provided Albumin and Globulin values are normal, a high or low ratio

is not significant.

Total Bilirubin is a bile pigment. It normally

circulates in the plasma and is taken up by liver cells. High levels of

bilirubin may result in jaundice.

LDH stands for lactate dehydrogenase.

It is an enzyme involved in the breakdown of lactic acid. Anything which causes

cellular damage, including heart attacks, liver disease, and blood drawing

itself, may cause higher values.

Alkaline Phosphatase is an

enzyme found primarily in bones and the liver. Values for pregnant women have found

to be elevated, however low values are probably not significant.

SGOT stands for serum glutamic

oxaloacetic transaminase.

SGOT is a liver enzyme involved in

cellular functions of the heart muscle and liver. Alcohol consumption, liver

disease, and other normal factors have been shown to raise this value. Low

values are probably not clinically significant.

SGPT stands for serum glutamic pyruvic

transaminase. SGPT, like SGOT, is an enzyme involved in the functions of heart,

liver, and muscle cells. Alcohol consumption has been shown to increase this

value.

GGT stands for Gamma Glutamyl

Transpedtidase. Similar to SGOT and SGPT, GGT is an enzyme involved in the

function of the liver, heart, and muscle cells. Alcohol consumption, liver

disease, heart attacks, recent heavy physical exertion, and other normal

factors have been shown to raise this value. Low values are probably not

significant.

Cholesterol is used to make essential body

substances, such as cell walls and hormones. High levels of cholesterol have

been associated with an increased risk for heart disease. Low levels of

cholesterol are preferred.

Triglycerides are blood fats that are the usual

storage form of lipids in the body. This value can be dramatically affected by

a recent meal or recent physical activity. Thus, an eight hour fast with no

significant activity is required for accurate results.

HDL Cholesterol is a High Density Lipoprotein,

which is commonly referred to as the " good " cholesterol. HDL

Cholesterol is a transport protein that carries cholesterol away from the

artery walls for removal from the body. The higher the HDL value, the lower the

risk of cardiovascular disease. Exercise and weight loss have been shown to

increase your HDL level, while smoking has been shown to decrease it.

LDL Cholesterol is a Low Density Lipoprotein,

which is commonly referred to as the " bad " cholesterol. LDL

Cholesterol, like HDL Cholesterol, is a transport protein. However, LDL

transports cholesterol to the arteries. The lower the LDL Cholesterol concentration,

the lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. A low-fat, low-cholesterol

diet has been shown to decrease this value.

Cholesterol/HDL Ratio is a ratio of Total Cholesterol to

HDL Cholesterol. This ratio has been shown to be a good predictor of

cardiovascular disease risk, with the lower the ratio the better. Combinations

of regular aerobic exercise and good nutritional practices have been shown to

improve this ratio.

Hematology:

HEMATOCRIT (HCT)

Hematocrit is the percentage

of red blood cells in whole blood. It is an important determinant of anemia

(decreased), polycythemia (decreased), dehydration (elevated), increased R.B.C.

breakdown in the spleen (elevated), or possible dehydration (elevated).

The word hematocrit means, 'to separate blood,' a procedure followed after the

blood is drawn through the proper use of a centrifuge.

Normal Adult Female Range: 37 - 47% Optimal Adult Female 42%

Normal Adult Male Range 40 -

54% Optimal Adult Male: 47

Normal Newborn Range: 50 - 62% Optimal

Newborn Reading: 56

HEMOGLOBIN (HGB)

Hemoglobin is the main

transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood. It is composed of globin a

group of amino acids that form a protein and heme which contains iron atoms and

the red pigment, porphyrin. As with Hematocrit, it is an important determinant

of anemia (decreased), dehydration (increased), polycythemia (decreased), poor

diet/nutrition, or possibly a malabsorption problem.

Normal Adult Female Range: 12 - 16% Optimal Adult Female: 14

Normal Adult Male Range: 14 - 18% Optimal

Adult Male Reading: 16

Normal Newborn Range: 14 - 20% Optimal

Newborn Reading: 17

MCH (Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin)

MCH = Hemoglobin x 10/R.B.C.

Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH) gives the average weight of hemoglobin in the

red blood cell. Due to its use of red blood cells in its calculation, MCH is

not as accurate as MCHC in its diagnosis of severe anemias. Decreased MCH is

associated with microcytic anemia. Increased MCH is associated with macrocytic

anemia.

Normal Adult Range: 27

– 33 pg Optimal Adult Reading: 30

MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume)

MCV = Hematocrit x 10/R.B.C.

The Mean Corpuscular Volume reflects the size of red blood cells by expressing

the volume occupied by a single red blood cell. Increased readings may indicate

macrocytic anemia, Pyridoxine or Folic Acid deficiency. Decreased readings may

indicate microcytic anemia, possibly caused by iron deficiency.

Normal Adult Range: 80 - 100

fl Optimal Adult Reading: 90

Higher ranges are found in

newborns and infants

MCHC (Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin

Concentration)

MCHC = Hemoglobin x

100/Hematocrit This test measures the average concentration of hemoglobin in

red blood cells. It is valuable in evaluating therapy for anemia because

Hemoglobin and Hematocrit instead of R.B.C. are used in the calculation. Low

MCHC means that a unit of packed R.B.C.’s contains less hemoglobin than

normal and a high MCHC means that there is more hemoglobin in a unit of

R.B.C.'s. Increased MCHC is seen in spherocytosis, and not seen in pernicious

anemia. Decreased levels may indicate iron deficiency, blood loss, B6

deficiency of thalassemia.

Normal Adult Range: 32 - 36 %

Optimal Adult Reading: 34

Higher ranges are found in

newborns and infants

R.B.C. (Red Blood Cell Count)

The red blood cells main

function is to carry oxygen to the tissues and to transfer carbon dioxide to

the lungs. This process is possible through the R.B.C. containing hemoglobin

which combines easily with oxygen and carbon dioxide.

Normal Adult Female: 3.9 -

5.2 mill/mcl Optimal Adult Female: 4.55

Normal Adult Male Range: 4.2

- 5.6 mill/mcl Optimal Adult Male: 4.9

Lower ranges are found in

Children, newborns and infants Immune System

W.B.C. (White Blood Cell Count)

The white blood cell's main

function is to fight infection, defend the body by phagocytosis against

invasion by foreign organisms, and to produce, or at least transport and

distribute, antibodies in the immune response. There are a number of types of

leukocytes (see differential) that are classified as follows; Granulocytes

Nongranulocytes Band Neutrophils Lymphocytes Neutrophils Monocytes Eosinophils

Basophils

Each cell, or leukocyte, has a different job in the body,

which is explained in the Differential section. An increase in all types of

white blood cells simultaneously is rarely seen. Some diseases such as measles,

pertussis and sepsis, have increased white blood cell counts so high that it

suggests leukemia. This is a type of temporary leukocytosis which must be

distinguished from leukemia by running more than one blood test.

Other potential causes of leukocytosis include leukemia,

malignancies, drugs, toxins, tissue necrosis and polycythemia vera. Decreased

levels of white blood cells, leukopenia, may occur during certain viral

infections, hypersplenism, drugs, primary bone disorders, fungal infections,

metastatic tumors, and iron deficiency anemia.

Normal Adult Range: 3.8 -

10.8 thous/mcl Optimal Adult Reading: 7.3

Higher ranges are found in

children, newborns and infants.

NEUTROPHILS NEUTROPHIL COUNT

Also known as Granulocytes or

segmented neutrophils, this is the main defender of the body against

infection and antigens. High levels may indicate an active infection. A low

count may indicate a compromised immune system or depressed bone marrow (low

neutrophil production).

Normal Adult Range: 48 - 73 %

Optimal Adult Reading: 60.5

Normal Children's Range: 30 -

60 % Optimal Children's Reading: 45

LYMPHOCYTES LYMPHOCYTE COUNT

Lymphocytes are involved in

protection of the body from viral infections such as measles, rubella,

chickenpox, or infectious mononucleosis. Elevated levels may indicate an active

viral infection. Depressed levels may indicate an exhausted immune system or an

active infection if the neutrophils are elevated.

Normal Adult Range: 18 - 48 %

Optimal Adult Reading: 33

Normal Children's Range: 25 -

50 % Optimal Children's Reading: 37.5

MONOCYTES MONOCYTE COUNT

These cells are helpful in

fighting severe infections, are considered the body's second line of defense

against infection and are the largest cells in the blood stream. Elevated

levels are seen in tissue breakdown, chronic infections, carcinomas, leukemia

(monocytic) and lymphomas. Low levels may be indicative of a state of good

health.

Normal Adult Range: 0 - 9 %

Optimal Adult Reading: 4.5

EOSINOPHILS EOSINOPHIL COUNT

Eosinophils are used by the

body to protect against allergic reactions and parasites. Therefore, elevated

levels may indicate an allergic response. A low count is normal. Normal Adult Range:

0 - 5 % Optimal Adult Reading: 2.5

BASOPHILS BASOPHIL COUNT

Basophilic activity is not

fully understood but it is known to carry histamine, heparin and serotonin.

High levels are found in allergic reactions. Low levels are normal.

Normal Adult Range: 0 - 2 %

Optimal Adult Reading: 1

LIPIDS:

CHOLESTEROL

Cholesterol is a critical fat

that is a structural component of cell membrane and plasma lipoproteins, and is

important in the synthesis of steroid hormones, glucocorticoids, and bile

acids. Mostly synthesized in the liver, some is absorbed through the diet,

especially one high in saturated fats. High density lipoproteins (HDL) is

desired as opposed to the low density lipoproteins (LDL), two types of

cholesterol. Elevated cholesterol has been seen in artherosclerosis, diabetes,

hypothyroidism and pregnancy. Low levels are seen in depression, malnutrition,

liver insufficiency, malignancies, anemia and infection.

Normal Adult Range: 120 - 240

mg/dl Optimal Adult Reading: 180

TRIGLYCERIDES

Triglycerides, stored in

adipose tissues as glycerol, fatty acids and monoglyceroids, are reconverted as

triglycerides by the liver. Ninety percent of the dietary intake and 95% of the

fat stored in tissues are triglycerides. Increased levels may be present in artherosclerosis,

hypothyroidism, liver disease, pancreatitis, myocardial infarction, metabolic

disorders, toxemia, and nephrotic syndrome. Decreased levels may be present in

chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, brain infarction, hyperthyroidism,

malnutrition, and malabsorption.

Normal Adult Range: 0 - 200

mg/dl Optimal Adult Reading: 100

LDL (Low Density Lipoprotein)

LDL is the cholesterol rich

remnants of the lipid transport vehicle VLDL (very-low density lipoproteins).

There have been many studies showing correlations between high levels of LDL

and arterial artherosclerosis. Due to the expense of direct LDL measurement, a

calculation known as the Friedewald formula is used (Total Cholesterol - HDL

Cholesterol - Triglycerides/5). When Triglyceride levels are greater than

400, this method is not accurate.

Increased levels are seen in high cholesterol diets,

nephrotic syndromes, multiple myeloma, hepatic obstruction or disease, anorexia

nervosa, diabetes chronic renal failure, and premature coronary heart disease.

Decreased levels are associated with Tangier disease, Apo-C-II deficiency,

hyperthyroidism, chrnic anemias, hepatocellular disease, Reye's syndrome, acute

stress, inflammatory joint disease, and chronic pulmonary disease.

Normal Adult Range: 62 - 130

mg/dl Optimal Adult Reading: 81 mg/dl

HDL (High Density Lipoprotein)

HDL is the cholesterol

carried by alpha lipoproteins. A high level of HDL is an indication of a

healthy metabolic system if there is no sign of liver disease or intoxication.

Two mechanisms explain how HDL offers protection against chronic heart disease.

First, HDL inhibits cellular uptake of LDL. Second, it

serves as a carrier that removes cholesterol from the peripheral tissues and

transports it back to the liver for catabolism and excretion. Decreased levels

are associated with an increased risk for coronary heart disease, poorly

controlled diabetes mellitus, hypertriglycerdemia, hepatocellular

diseases, chronic renal failure and nephrotic syndrome.

Normal Adult Range: 35 - 135

mg/dl Optimal Adult Reading: 85 mg/dl

CHOLESTEROL/HDL RATIO

According to data from

LabCorp of America, Data from various studies suggest that the ratio of total

cholesterol/HDL may provide a 'rule of thumb' guide to predicting increased

risk to coronary heart disease.

Normal Adult Range: 1 - 6

Optimal Adult Reading: 3.5

ENZYMES AND HEPATIC

FUNCTION:

BILIRUBIN, TOTAL

A byproduct of the breakdown

of red blood cells in the liver, bilirubin is a good indication of the liver's

function. Excreted into the bile, bilirubin gives the bile its pigmentation.

Elevated in liver disease, mononucleosis, hemolytic anemia, low levels of

exposure to the sun, and toxic effects of some drugs. Decreased levels are seen

in people with an inefficient liver, excessive fat digestion, and possibly a

diet low in nitrogen bearing foods.

Normal Adult Range 0 - 1.3

mg/dl

SGOT (SERUM GLUTAMIC-OXALOCETIC

TRANSAMINASE - AST)

Serum Glutamic Oxalocetic

Transaminase or AST is an enzyme found primarily in the liver, heart, kidney,

pancreas, and muscles. Elevated levels are round n tissue damage, especially

heart and liver. Decreased levels can be found in Vitamin B deficiency and

pregnancy.

Normal Adult Range: 0 - 42

U/L Optimal Adult Reading: 21

SGPT (SERUM GLUTAMIC-PYRUVIC

TRANSAMINASE - ALT)

Serum Glutamic Pyruvic

Transaminase or ALT is an enzyme found primarily in the liver but also in the

heart and other tissues. It is more useful in diagnosing liver function than

SGOT levels are. Decreased SGPT in combination with increased cholesterol

levels is seen in congested liver cases. Increased levels are seen in

mononucleosis, alcoholism, liver damage, kidney infection, chemical pollutants

or myocardial infarction.

Normal Adult Range: 0 - 48

U/L Optimal Adult Reading: 24

ALKALINE PHOSPHATASE

Produced in the cells of bone

and the liver with some activity in the kidney, intestine, and placenta, it is

mostly found in an alkaline state with a pH of 9. Increased levels are seen

extensively as a tumor marker, in bone injury, pregnancy, or skeletal growth

(elevated readings). Growing children have normally higher levels of this

enzyme. Decreased levels are sometimes found in hypoadrenia, protein

deficiency, malnutrition and a number of vitamin deficiencies. Normal Adult

Range: 20 - 125 U/L Optimal Adult Reading: 72.5

Normal Children's Range: 40 -

400 U/L Optimal Children's Reading: 220

GGT (GAMMA-GLUTAMYL TRANSPEPTIDASE)

GGT is believed to be

involved in the transport of amino acids and peptides into cells as well as

glutathione metabolism. GGT is mainly found in liver cells and as such is

extremely sensitive to alcohol use. Elevated levels may be found in liver

disease, alcoholism, bile-duct obstruction, cholangitis, drug abuse, and in

some cases excessive magnesium ingestion. Decreased levels can be found in

hypothyroidism, hypothalamic malfunction and low levels of magnesium.

Normal Adult Female Range: 0

- 45 U/L Optimal Female: 22.5

Normal Adult Male Range: 0 -

65 U/L Optimal Male: 32.5

LDH (LACTIC ACID DEHYDROGENASE)

Lactic acid dehydrogenase is

an intracellular enzyme found primarily in the kidney, heart, skeletal muscle,

brain, liver and lungs. Increases are usually found in cellular death and/or

leakage from the cell. In some cases it can be useful in confirming myocardial

or pulmonary infarction (only in relation to other tests). Decreased levels of

the enzyme may be seen in cases of malnutrition, hypoglycemia, adrenal exhaustion,

or low tissue or organ activity.

Normal Adult Range: 0 - 250

U/L Optimal Adult Reading: 125

ELECTROLYTES:

SODIUM

Sodium is the most abundant

cation in the blood and its chief base. It functions in the body to maintain

osmotic pressure, acid-base balance and to transmit nerve impulses. Increased

levels are associated with dehydration, Conn's syndrome, primary aldosteronism,

coma, Cushing's disease, diabetes insipidus, and tracheobronchitis. Decreased

levels are seen in severe burns, congestive heary failure, excessive fluid

loss, ?s disease, severe nephritis, pyloric obstruction, malabsorption,

diabetic acidosis, diuretics, edema, and hypothyroidism.

Normal Adult Range: 135-146

mEq/L Optimal Adult Reading: 140.5

POTASSIUM

Potassium is the major

intracellular cation in the blood. It, along with sodium, helps to maintain

osmotic balance and in also involved in acid-base balance. It is needed for

proper nerve and muscle action. Increased potassium is sometimes seen in renal

failure, dehydration, obstruction, trauma, cell damage, ?s disease,

uncontrolled diabetes and decreased insulin. Decreased levels are associated

with diarrhea, starvation, vomiting, stress, malabsorption, severe burns,

primary aldosteronism, excessive licorice ingestion, respiratory alkalosis,

renal tubular acidosis, drugs, and treatment of megaloblastic anemia with

vitamin B12 or folic acid..

Normal Range: 3.5 - 5.5 mEq/L

Optimal Adult Reading: 4.5

CHLORIDE

Chlorides significance

relates to its maintenance of cellular integrity through it influence on

osmotic pressure. It also helps monitor acid-base balance and water balance.

Elevated levels are related to acidosis and excessive water crossing the cell

membrane. Decreased levels with decreased serum albumin may indicate water

deficiency (edema).

Normal Adult Range: 95-112

mEq/L Optimal Adult Reading: 103

CO2 (Carbon Dioxide)

The CO2 level is related to

the respiratory exchange of carbon dioxide in the lungs and is part of the

body's buffering system. Generally when used with the other electrolytes, it is

a good indicator of acidosis and alkalinity. Elevated CO2 is seen in severe

vomiting, emphysema, aldosteronism and the use of mercurial diuretics. Decrease

CO2 is associated with severe diarrhea, starvation, acute renal failure,

salicylate toxicity, and diabetic acidosis.

Normal Adult Range: 22-32

mEq/L Optimal Adult Reading: 27

Normal Children's Range - 20

- 28 mEq/L Optimal Children's: 24

CALCIUM

The most abundant mineral in

the body, it is involved in bone metabolism, protein absorption, fat transfer,

muscular contraction, transmission of nerve impulses, blood clotting and

cardiac function. It is highly sensitive to elements such as magnesium,

iron, and phosphorus as well as hormonal activity, vitamin D levels, alkalinity

and acidity, and many drugs.

Increased calcium levels may be associated with

hyperparathyroidism, metastatic bone cancers, cancers of the lung, breast,

thyroid, kidney, liver, and pancreas as well as Hodgkin's disease, lymphomas,

leukemia, multiple myelomas, primary squamous cell carcinomas, tuberculosis,

sarcoidosis, hyperthyroidism, Paget's disease, bone fractures, excessive

vitamin D intake, and renal transplant.

Decreased levels are associated with hypoparathyroidism,

hyperphosphatemia, malabsorption, acute pancreatitis, renal failure, alkalosis,

osteomalacia, vitamin D deficiency, malnutrition and alcoholism.

Normal Adult Range: 8.5-10.3

mEq/dl Optimal Adult Reading: 9.4

Normal Children's Reading:

9-11 mEq/dl Optimal Children's: 10

PHOSPHORUS

Phosphorus is an abundant

element found in most tissues and cells. It is inversely related to the calcium

level. When calcium is increased, phosphorus tends to decrease and vice versa.

Proper blood draw procedures are necessary in order to avoid falsely elevated

readings. Phosphorus is needed for its buffering action, calcium transport and

osmotic pressure. Increased levels are seen in renal insufficiency,

hypoparathyroidism, excessive intake of vitamin D, hypocalcemia, bone tumors,

's disease, acromegaly, and liver disease. Decreased levels are

associated with hyperparathyroidism, rickets, osteomalacia, vitamin D

deficiency, diabetic coma, liver disease, dialysis, vomiting, intravenous

glucose in a nondiabetic patient, severe malnutrition and gram-negative

septicemia.

Normal Adult Range: 2.5 - 4.5

mEq/dl Optimal Adult Reading: 3.5

Normal Children's Range: 3 -

6 mEq/dl Optimal Children's Range: 4.5

NITROGEN B.U.N. (BLOOD UREA NITROGEN)

The nitrogen component of

Urea, B.U.N. is the end product of protein metabolism and its concentration is

influenced by the rate of excretion. Excessive protein intake, kidney damage,

certain drugs, low fluid intake, intestinal bleeding, exercise or heart failure

can cause increases. Decreased levels may be due to a poor diet, malabsorption,

liver damage or low nitrogen intake. Normal Adult Range: 7 - 25 mg/dl Optimal

Adult Reading: 16

CREATININE

Creatinine is the waste

product of muscle metabolism. Its level is a reflection of the body's muscle

mass. Low levels are sometimes seen in kidney damage, protein starvation, liver

disease or pregnancy. Elevated levels are sometimes seen in kidney disease,

muscle degeneration, or some drugs involved in impairment of kidney function

Normal Adult Range: .7 - 1.4

mg/dl Optimal Adult Reading: 1.05

URIC ACID

Uric acid is the end product

of purine metabolism and is normally excreted through the urine. High levels

are noted in gout, infections, kidney disease, alcoholism, high protein diets,

and with toxemia in pregnancy. Low levels may be indicative of kidney disease,

malabsorption, poor diet, liver damage or an overly acid kidney.

Normal Adult Female : 2.5 -

7.5 mg/dl Optimal Adult Female : 5.0

Normal Adult Male: 3.5 - 7.5

mg/dl Optimal Adult Male: 5.5

PROTEIN, TOTAL

Proteins are the most

abundant compounds in serum. The protein makeup of the individual is of

important diagnostic significance because of proteins involvement in enzymes,

hormones and antibodies as well as osmotic pressure balance, maintaining

acid-base balance and as a reserve source of nutrition for the bodies tissues

and muscles. The major serum proteins measured are Albumin and Globulin

(alpha1, alpha2, beta and gamma). Decreased levels may be due to poor

nutrition, liver disease, malabsorption, diarrhea, or severe burns. Increased

levels are seen in lupus, liver disease, chronic infections, alcoholism,

leukemia, and tuberculosis amongst many others. Careful review of the

individual albumin, globulin and A/G ratios are recommended.

Normal Adult Range: 6.0 -8.5

g/dl Optimal Adult Reading: 7.25

ALBUMIN

Albumin is the major

constituent of serum protein (usually over 50%). It is manufactured by the

liver from the amino acids taken through the diet. It helps in osmotic pressure

regulation, nutrient transport and waste removal. High levels are seen in liver

disease, shock, dehydration, or multiple myeloma. Lower levels are seen in poor

diets, diarrhea, fever, infection, liver disease, inadequate iron intake,

third-degree burns and edemas or hypocalcemia.

Normal Adult Range: 3.2 - 5.0

g/dl Optimal Adult Reading: 4.1

GLOBULIN (CALCULATED)

Globulin, a larger protein

than albumin, is important for its immunologic responses, especially its gamma

portion (IgA, IgG, IgM, and IgE). Globulins have many diverse functions such

as, the carrier of some hormones, lipids, metals, and antibodies. When chronic

infections, liver disease, rheumatoid arthritis, myelomas, and lupus are

present, elevated levels are seen. You may find lower levels in immune

compromised patients, poor dietary habits, malabsorption and liver or kidney

disease.

Normal Adult Range: 2.2 - 4.2

g/dl Optimal Adult Reading: 3.2 A/G

RATIO (ALBUMIN/GLOBULIN RATIO)

(CALCULATED)

A/G ratio is an important

indicator of disease states although a high level is not considered clinically

significant. Low levels may be indicative of liver disease malabsorption,

leukemia, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or bacterial pneumonia.

Normal Adult Range: 0.8 - 2.0

Optimal Adult Reading: 1.9

ANION GAP (Sodium + Potassium - CO2 +

Chloride)

The anion gap is used to

measure the concentration of cations (sodium and potassium) and the anions

(chloride and CO2) in the extracellular fluid of the blood. Numerous clinical

implications can be gathered from the Anion Gap. An increased measurement is

associated with metabolic acidosis due to the overproduction of acids (a state

of alkalinity is in effect). Decreased levels may indicate metabolic alkalosis

due to the overproduction of alkaloids (a state of acidosis is in effect).

Normal Adult Range: 4 - 14

Optimal Adult Reading: 9

BUN/CREATININE

A high reading in this

calculation is normally indicative of too much BUN being formed. A low reading

may show that the creatinine is not being cleared effectively by the kidney.

This calculation is a good measurement of kidney and liver function.

Normal Adult Range: 6 -25

Optimal Adult Reading: 15.5

CALCIUM/PHOSPHORUS (Calculated)

Due to the delicate balance

between calcium and phosphorus in the system, this calculation is helpful in

noting subtle and acute imbalances in the relationship between the two

elements. Decreased levels are seen in some autoimmune disorders like

fibromyaligia, while increased levels are found in over supplementation of Calcium.

Normal Adult Range: 2.3 - 3.3

Optimal Adult Reading: 2.8

Normal Children's range: 1.3

- 3.3 Optimal Children's Reading: 2.3

SODIUM/POTASSIUM (Calculated)

These are the two major blood

electrolytes, sodium is the extracellular cation and potassium is the

intracellular cation. This is an important ratio to review and act upon when

subtle or acute imbalances are noted.

Normal Adult Range: 26 - 38

Optimal Adult Reading: 32

THYROID THYROXINE (T4)

Thyroxine is the thyroid

hormone that contains four atoms of iodine. It is used to evaluate thyroid

function. It is the direct measurement of total T4 concentration in the blood

serum. Increased levels are found in hyperthyroidism, acute thyroiditis, and

hepatitis. Low levels can be found in Cretinism, hypothyroidism, cirrhosis,

malnutrition, and chronic thyroiditis.

Normal Adult Range: 4 - 12

ug/dl Optimal Adult Reading: 8 ug/dl

T3-UPTAKE

This test is an indirect

measurement of unsaturated thyroxine binding globulin in the blood. Increased

levels are found in hyperthyroidism, severe liver disease, metastatic

malignancy, and pulmonary insufficiency. Decreased levels are found in

hypothyroidism, normal pregnancy, and hyperestrogenis status.

Normal Adult Range: 27 - 47%

Optimal Adult Reading: 37 %

FREE T4 INDEX (T7)

This index is a calculation

used to correct the estimated total thyroxine for the amount of thyroxine

binding globulin present. It uses the T4 value and the T3 uptake ratio.

Normal Adult Range: 4 - 12

Optimal Adult Reading:8

THYROID-STIMULATING HORMONE (TSH)

TSH, produced by the anterior

pituitary gland, causes the release and distribution of stored thyroid

hormones. When T4 and T3 are too high, TSH secretion decreases, when T4 and T3

are low, TSH secretion increases. Increased TSH levels are seen in primary

hypothyroidism, thyrotropin producing tumors, and thyrotoxicosis. Decreased

levels are seen in hyperthyroidism and secondary and tertiary hypothyroidism.

Normal Adult Range: .5 - 6 miliIU/L Optimal Adult Reading: 3.25 miliU/L

OTHER GLUCOSE (FASTING)

Glucose, formed by the

digestion of carbohydrates and the conversion of glycogen by the liver is the

primary source of energy for most cells. Insulin, glucagon, thyroid hormone,

liver enzymes and adrenal hormones regulate it. It is elevated in diabetes,

liver disease, obesity, pancreatitis, steroids, stress, or diet. Low levels may

be indicative of liver disease, overproduction of insulin, hypothyroidism, or

alcoholism.

Normal Adult Range: 60 - 115 mg/dl Optimal Adult Reading: 87.5

IRON, TOTAL

Iron is necessary for the

formation of some proteins, hemoglobin, myoglobin, and cytochrome. Also it is

necessary for oxygen transport, cellular respiration and peroxide deactivation.

Low levels are seen in many anemias, copper deficiencies, low vitamin C intake,

liver disease, chronic infections, high calcium intake and women with heavy

menstrual flows. High levels are seen in hemochromitosis, liver damage,

pernicious anemia and hemolytic anemia.

Normal Adult Range: 30 – 170 mcg/dl Optimal

Adult Reading: 100

Hugs,

Deanna

LUPUS Serenity

Prayer...

Lord, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot

change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to hide the

bodies of doctors I shot when they said, You're perfectly healthy, it's all in

your head "