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.

A testosterone test measures the amount of testosterone in your blood and is essential for assessing hormone levels in both males and females. In men, it helps evaluate conditions like low libido, infertility, or low energy, while in women, it can help diagnose conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Men generally have much higher testosterone levels than women. Normal ranges differ by gender, with men typically having 300-1,000 ng/dL and women having 15-70 ng/dL. Test results help diagnose hormonal imbalances and guide treatment options.

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.

The HbA1c test measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months, making it a crucial tool for managing diabetes. Unlike daily blood glucose tests, HbA1c provides a long-term view of blood sugar control, with normal values below 5.7% for non-diabetics. For diabetics, the target HbA1c is typically below 7%. Higher levels suggest poor blood sugar management and increased risk for complications. The HbA1c test should be done at least twice a year for diabetics, or more frequently if medication or lifestyle changes are made.