Published: 21 May 2024

Importance of Blood Tests

Blood, the primary circulating fluid in the body, plays crucial roles beyond circulation:

Diagnostic and Monitoring Functions:

* Blood tests detect harmful chemicals, toxins, and drugs, aiding in diagnosis and treatment.
* They determine physiological and biochemical states, such as disease, mineral levels, organ function, and drug effectiveness.
* Blood tests identify pathogens and monitor the presence of microorganisms in the body.

Regulatory Functions:

* Blood regulates the body's pH levels, ensuring proper cellular function.
* It helps maintain core body temperature, particularly in warm-blooded animals.

Test Procedures:

* Blood tests involve analyzing a sample drawn from a vein or finger-prick.
* Variations in chemical concentrations or proportions compared to standard values indicate potential health issues.

Preparation for Blood Tests:

* Follow specific instructions from a healthcare professional for test preparation, including fasting or food intake.
* Multiple blood tests may be required at specific intervals for accurate diagnosis and monitoring.

Research Applications:

* Pharmacogenomics utilizes blood test analysis to study the effects of trial drugs on genes and other elements of the body.