Clinical chemistry, also known as chemical pathology or clinical biochemistry, is a branch of laboratory medicine that focuses on the analysis of bodily fluids for diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic purposes. It involves analyzing blood, urine, cerebrospinal fluid, and other bodily fluids to measure the levels of various chemical substances and evaluate their function in relation to health and disease.
In clinical chemistry, a wide range of quantitative and qualitative tests are performed to assess the levels of various analytes, such as glucose, cholesterol, electrolytes, enzymes, hormones, and metabolites. These tests provide valuable information about the functioning of different organ systems, including the liver, kidneys, heart, and endocrine glands. They can help diagnose and monitor a variety of conditions, including diabetes, kidney diseases, liver disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and hormonal imbalances.
The field of clinical chemistry relies on various analytical techniques, including spectrophotometry, immunoassays, electrophoresis, chromatography, and molecular diagnostics. These techniques allow for the accurate and precise measurement of analytes in different body fluids, helping healthcare professionals make informed decisions regarding patient care.
The information obtained from clinical chemistry tests is used to aid in patient management, guiding the initiation or adjustment of therapy, monitoring treatment effectiveness, and determining disease prognosis. Clinical chemists work closely with other healthcare professionals, such as physicians, pathologists, and nurses, to interpret laboratory results and integrate them with other clinical data for comprehensive patient care. Their expertise is essential in ensuring accurate and timely diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of various diseases.
