Clinical chemistry tests, also known as biochemical tests or blood chemistry tests, are laboratory diagnostic examinations that analyze the composition of body fluids, particularly blood and urine, to assess the functioning and health of various organ systems. These tests provide vital information about a person's metabolism, hormonal regulation, organ function, and potential presence of diseases or imbalances.
Clinical chemistry tests are conducted by collecting a sample of blood or urine from the patient, which is then analyzed to measure levels of various biochemical substances such as electrolytes, enzymes, proteins, hormones, lipids, and waste products. The results obtained from these tests can help evaluate overall health status, diagnose diseases, monitor treatment effectiveness, and detect abnormalities or imbalances in specific body functions.
This branch of laboratory medicine plays a crucial role in disease prevention, diagnosis, and management, aiding healthcare professionals in making informed medical decisions. For example, a clinical chemistry test may measure glucose levels to diagnose and manage diabetes, assess liver and kidney function tests to evaluate organ health, analyze lipid profile to monitor cardiovascular risks, or detect specific markers to diagnose conditions like cancer or infectious diseases.
Accurate interpretation of clinical chemistry test results requires comprehensive knowledge and expertise, as reference ranges differ based on age, gender, and physiological state. Consequently, clinical chemists, medical technologists, or other qualified laboratory professionals conduct these tests and provide the healthcare team with relevant and reliable information to assist in patient care.
