The PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood test measures the levels of PSA, a protein produced by the prostate gland, in a man's blood. Elevated PSA levels can indicate prostate cancer, but they may also reflect benign conditions like an enlarged prostate or infection. PSA testing is crucial for early detection of prostate cancer, especially in men over 50 or those at higher risk. Regular screening can help catch prostate cancer in its early stages when it's most treatable. However, abnormal PSA levels require further investigation to confirm the diagnosis, such as a biopsy or imaging.
Basophil count measures the number of basophils, a type of white blood cell, in your blood. Basophils play a crucial role in the immune system by releasing chemicals like histamine during allergic reactions and fighting infections. A high basophil count may indicate conditions such as allergic reactions, chronic inflammation, or certain blood disorders like leukemia. On the other hand, a low basophil count is less common but can be seen in acute infections or after long-term steroid use. Interpreting your basophil count helps in understanding immune responses and potential underlying conditions affecting your health.
The MCHC (Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration) blood test measures the concentration of hemoglobin in red blood cells. It helps assess how well red blood cells are delivering oxygen to the body. MCHC is a key marker in diagnosing and managing different types of anemia. Low MCHC can indicate iron-deficiency anemia, while high MCHC might suggest spherocytosis or other conditions. Normal MCHC levels range from 32 to 36 g/dL. The test is part of a complete blood count (CBC) and helps physicians understand the severity and cause of anemia.
The faecal calprotectin test is a non-invasive stool test used to detect inflammation in the intestines, making it an essential tool for diagnosing Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. It measures the level of calprotectin, a protein released by white blood cells in response to inflammation. High calprotectin levels indicate active inflammation in the gut, helping to distinguish IBD from non-inflammatory conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The test is simple to conduct at home, with results providing critical information for diagnosis and monitoring disease activity.