A diagnostic lab plays a vital role in cancer research. Through its wide array of services, researchers are able to study new methods of treatment and oncologists can monitor a person’s response to medication and new modes of therapy.
When doing a urinalysis, the technician begins with a visual assessment of the sample provided. He or she will evaluate the clarity (or cloudiness) of the sample and will note color discrepancies (i.e. blood in the urine) and will also note the odor of the specimen.
Diagnostic laboratories provide standard testing procedures that are important in cancer research, study, and treatment. These tests help diagnose cancer, determine the stage of cancer, and monitor a person’s response to treatment.
Stool samples prove to be important when diagnosing disorders in a person’s digestive system. Doctors prescribe stool collection tests to look for infections, allergies, and inflammation.
While getting your blood drawn isn't something you would do for fun, it is something you have to put up with when you go to a diagnostic lab. In fact, you should be ready to part with more than just a thimble full as the techs will need an adequate amount especially if a lot of tests need to be done.
You should avoid wearing deodorant or antiperspirant to your breasts before mammography. This is because these can show up on the film and interfere with the test results.
Do you know when the Medical Resonance Imaging (MRI) technology was first used in medicine? Well, if you’ve guessed 1977, then you’re right? MRI machines became commercially available in the 1980s.
There is no pain associated with diagnostic imaging tests such as ultrasound, X-ray or MRI. However, you may experience minor discomfort, depending on the type of procedure.
Skin tests provide accurate results that help determine whether a person is allergic to airborne substances. For food allergies, which are more complicated to diagnose, diagnostic lab tests are considered to be more accurate.
Aside from blood, clinical laboratories also examine other specimens taken from patients. Stool samples, in particular, provides a wealth of information as examination can reveal the presence of parasites, bacteria or viruses that could be making a patient ill.
Getting tested can be an educational and empowering experience. Knowing what’s going on with your health allows you to take a step back and reevaluate your health decisions and therefore feel more confident about facing your future.
Sure, you can have the necessary tests done at a hospital but there are reasons why it’s better to go to a diagnostic lab instead: greater convenience, faster results, and more affordable costs.
