Adrenal Gland Scan

The scan helps to localize the position of a tumour by noting  hormonal uptake and storage within the Adrenal Glands.

Adrenocorticotropic Hormone Stimulation

Done to establish a diagnosis of Addison's disease or Cushing's syndrome. Addison's - increased ACTH (a hormone secreted by the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland) with low cortisol levels.

Cushing's - decreased ACTH along with high cortisol levels. Also evaluates pituitary adenomas; malignant ACTH producing tumours; pituitary disease; and hypothalmic disease.

Aldosterone

Aldosterone regulates sodium reabsorption and potassium excretion by the kidneys. It is involved in regulation of body  water, blood pressure, blood volume, electrolyte balance and pH.

Elevated levels are found in primary and secondary

aldosteronism.

Angiography

The process of taking a picture of part of the cardiovascular system.

A contrast dye is used to help visualize the vessel.

Antibody Screen

Identifies serum antibodies, maternal anti-Rh antibodies during pregnancy, and incompatibilities not detected by other tests. The main purpose of this test is to determine serum antibodies to RBCs the client will receive by transfusion. Routinely done for

blood compatibility testing or cross-matching.

6 Apolipoprotein The ratio of apolipoproteins is useful in identifying at-risk persons

Apolipoprotein

The ratio of apolipoproteins is useful in identifying at-risk persons for coronary artery disease.

(Examples of Apolipoproteins are LDL and HDL (low-density lipoprotein and high-density lipoprotein

(cholesterol)).

Arteriography

The process of taking a picture of an artery. A contrast medium is injected (via the femoral artery or brachial artery) to better visualize the artery

Arthrography

The visualization of a joint using radiographic study (x-ray) after  the injection of a radiopaque substance into the joint. (Usually done on the shoulder or knee - but might be performed on the wrist, hip, ankle, and temporal-mandibular joint (TMJ)).

Provides direct visualization of the internal structures of a joint. A fiber-optic arthroscope is used. (The knee is the most common site, but other joints may include the shoulder, elbow, hip, wrist, or ankle). This procedure is used to diagnose injury / disorders of the knee that cannot be identified by x-ray.

Barium Enema

The radiological (x-ray) examination of the colon using barium instilled using a rectal tube into the rectum. The movement of the barium through the large intestine is visualized by fluoroscopy.  (Useful to detect small lesions and polyps). The bowel must be  totally cleaned out prior to the procedure.

Bilirubin

Bilirubin is a substance produced in the liver, spleen, and bone marrow.

One type (direct) is excreted in the GI tract. The other

(indirect) circulates in the blood. Many disease processes can cause an increase in both types of bilirubin. Bilirubin levels are measured using blood or urine samples. (Only FYI - not for

testing: Some possible diseases with increased bilirubin levels  are: alcoholism; biliary obstruction; anemia; hepatitis; malaria;

myocardial infarction; pancreatitis; cirrhosis; Gilbert's disease; pulmonary embolism; mononucleosis; sickle cell anemia;  cirrhosis (possibly hyperthyroidism)).

 BONE  SCAN

A bone scan produces high-resolution images of the joints and bones.

A bone scan can monitor for degenerative arthritis. A  radionuclide is injected - and will collect at areas of high  osteogenesis, hot spots, or areas of absent osteogenesis, cold spots.

 The bone scan can detect a wide variety of musculoskeletal disorders. It can also be used to determine the effectiveness of treatments.

BREAST BIOPSY

A breast biopsy examines tissue or fluid that is removed from the breast lesion to diagnose or rule out malignancy.

Samples may be obtained from a fine needle aspiration; core biopsy; or stereotactic guidance - which all can be done using local anesthetic.

Breast sonogram

A painless, non-invasive test that uses high-frequency ultrasound waves to record breast masses (palpable and non-palpable).

Useful if a woman has dense breasts or silicon implants - since the beam can penetrate the tissue where mammography may not be able to). Sometimes mammography is done first and followed by ultrasound (sonography) to improve diagnostic accuracy.

Candida Antibody

Candidiasis is a result of a fungal infection caused by

Candida albicans - and commonly affects the nails, mucous membranes, and skin. If the fungal infection is present in the blood - it can lead to a life-threatening systemic infection. People on

antibiotics, corticosteroid therapy, have immunological disorders, are pregnant, have diabetes, are obese, or have dibilitating chronic illness are at more risk for Candidiasis. If cultures / histological studies fail to identify candidiasis, then a blood sample to identify the antibody is required.

Cardiac Catheterization

A catheter is threaded through an artery or a vein (in the upper  groin or arm). It reaches the heart - then a radiographic dye is injected (called coronary angiogram). The dye outlines the heart,  vessels, and registers the pressures across the heart valves. Measurement of pressures, oxygen saturation, and oxygen content are taken.

Cardiac isoenzymes are those enzymes (with differing molecular details than other enzymes) specifically released from the heart muscle.

Enzymes are released (elevated blood levels will show)

when there is tissue damage - as in a heart attack (myocardial infarction). It may be necessary to take blood samples at intervals to determine ongoing changes to the levels of the cardiac isoenzymes

Cardiac Nuclear Scan

Gives information regarding the location and extent of

myocardial ischemia and viability of myocardial tissues.

A radionuclide dye is injected and allowed to circulate through the heart to allow visualization of exercise-induced areas of ischemic cardiac tissue (little or no blood flow) or necrotic cardiac tissue from a previous myocardial infarction.

This test is normally

indicated when a patient has chest pain or known coronary artery disease.

Carotid Doppler

A non-invasive procedure that examines the arteries supplying the brain (the carotid arteries)

            Cerebrospinal Fluid Examination

Cerebrospinal fluid is collected by a lumbar puncture (or from the ventricles of the brain).

 Helps to diagnose meningitis and viral encephalitis. Allows for evaluation of colour, pressure, and specific cytological information of the CSF (Cerebrospinal Fluid).

Cholangiography

A radiographic (x-ray) examination of the bile ducts. Contrast medium is injected intravenously and films are taken of the upper right quadrant at 20 minute intervals for 1 hour - or until the biliary ducts are visualized. Identifies stenosis, obstructions, and calculi of the common bile duct.

Cholecystography

An x-ray examination of the gallbladder after oral ingestion of radiopaque dye.

Diagnoses gallbladder disease, such as  gallstones, gallbladder polyps, chronic cholecystitis.

Determines if  the cystic duct if patent prior to lithotripsy.

Coccidioidomycosis Skin test

Determines the presence of infection by the detection of

Coccidioides immitis

(a fungus

Colonoscopy

The examination of the large intestine from the anus to the  cecum.

A flexible fiber-optic or video colonoscope is used.  Colonoscopy is the most direct way to visualize the intestinal  mucosa.

 Foreign objects, polyps, and biopsy specimens can be  removed through the colonoscope.

Complete Blood Count

The CBC (Complete Blood Count) is a group of tests of the peripheral blood.

Often ordered as a screening tool and diagnostic test to provide information about the hematological and other systems.

It is used in a routine physical examination and in the diagnosis of a wide range of conditions and diseases of children and adults

Computed Tomography Chest

A cross-sectional view of the chest. Allows for detection of small differences in tissue densities that can't be seen on regular xrays (conventional radiology).

Can evaluate chest trauma, enlarge lymph nodes, pleural effusion, carcinomas

Computed Tomography, pancreas

Images cross sections of the tissue structures of the pancreas. Changes due to acute pancreatitis are clearly evident on CT. The  extent of inflammation can be seen.

Coronary Ultrasonography

A non-invasive test that uses ultrasound waves to examine the heart's position and size; pericardium and great vessels; valve  and chamber movement; and blood flow velocity.

 There are two  approaches possible - transthoracic or transesophageal

C-Reactive Protein

C-Reactive Protein appears in the blood in acute stages of various inflammatory disorders.

This test will show elevated  levels, which are found in bacterial infections, active rheumatic  fever, post op wound infections, kidney or bone marrow  transplant rejection, Crohn's disease, systemic lupus  erythematosus, TB, acute myocardial infarctions, and blood  transfusions

Cystography

A contrast agent is instilled in the bladder and then radiographic imaging is performed.

Cystography is a test of the lower urinary tract that provides information concerning the anatomy and

integrity of the urinary bladder and urethra.

Cystometry

A test done to measure the pressure inside the bladder during bladder filling.

Cystometry is an important part of urodynamic  evaluation. Cystometry evaluates the detrusor muscle function  and tonicity and aids in determining the cause of bladder dysfunction.

Cytologic Examination

Cytology of body tissues and cells involves the examination of cells in order to diagnose malignant and premalignant conditions.

Some sources for cytologic examination can be sputum, tissue biopsy, cerebral spinal fluid, effusions from body cavities (pleural, abdominal, peritoneal, pericardial, pleural), urine, and gastrointestinal fluid.

Cytomegalovirus Antibody test

The antibody to CMV is a type of herpes virus that is found in all body secretions and is tested by the Cytomegalovirus Antibody test.

The virus is present in a large segment of the population without causing disease. It is best to test the blood for this

– even though urine testing is possible (but not as efficient).

Electrocardiography

A non-invasive test of the electrical output of the heart.

Electrodes are attached at strategic areas of the patient’s body –

to allow a 360º evaluation of the heart’s electrical output. 

Electroencephalography

A non-invasive study performed to evaluate the electrical activity of the brain cells.

An EEG assists in diagnosing structural  abnormalities involving the brain. Seizure activity can be  evaluated. Evaluates sleep disorders (during sleep studies) and  effects of drug toxicity on the brain and more

Electromyography

EMG. An electrophysiological study performed to determine the electrical activity of specific muscles. A variety of nerve and muscle disorders can be diagnosed (muscular dystrophy;  myasthenia gravis; poliomyelitis; tetanus; sarcoidosis.

Diagnoses  neuromuscular and muscular disorders. Evaluates neuropathies and myopathies.

Electronystagmography

ENG. An electrophysiological study that measures the direction and degree of nystagmus (involuntary movement of the eye in a  back and forth direction). ENG measures the electric responses of the eye at rest and in response to various stimuli that are applied to the eye to elicit the nystagmus response.

Speed and duration of the eye movements are recorded and compared with normal values.

ERG. An electrophysiological study that measures the electrical

activity of the retina as it responds to a flash of light. ERG

diagnoses a variety of retinal disorders (retinal detachment;

retinitis; retinal damage caused by drugs). It evaluates colour

blindness and night blindness. Detects congenital abnormalities

of the corneal lens.

Endoscopic Retrograde

Cholangiopancreatography

ERCP. The visual and radiographic examination of the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas using a fiber-optic duodenoscope.

ERCP allows for direct imaging of the area. ERCP is the standard  for diagnosing stones in the common bile duct with high  sensitivity and specificity.

Epstein-Barr Virus Antibodies

Epstein-Barr Virus is a herpes virus that is very common and can cause mononucleosis (as well as other ailments

– including chronic fatigue syndrome / fibromyalgia).

This test will test for antibodies created by this virus. Elevated levels are found in

mononucleosis, head and neck tumours, infectious hepatitis, sarcoidosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and leukemia.

Evaluates and monitors esophageal capability. The pH of gastric acid and the pH of the esophagus are measured using a pH electrode.

Evaluates and monitors gastroesophageal reflux.

Esophagogastroduodenoscopy

EGD. An endoscopic procedure that allows direct visualization of the upper gastrointestinal tract.

The esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (upper portion of the small intestine) is visualized for abnormalities.

Estriol

Estriols are a specific type of estrogen hormone.

Estriol test measures the amount of estriol in the blood. The most common  use of the estriol test is to evaluate fetal status during pregnancy.

 Elevated levels are found with tumours; multiple  pregnancy; ovarian or testicular tumours.

Decreased levels are found in failing pregnancy, congenital abnormalities, placental insufficiency, menopause, and many other conditions.

Estrogen is a hormone made in the ovaries, testes, placenta, and adrenal glands.

Estrogen levels fluctuate during the menstrual cycle but are highest during ovulation and the last 2 weeks of the 4 week cycle.

Levels decrease in pregnancy and menopause.

Estrogen testing can evaluate estrogen hormone levels to help in the diagnosis of various ailments.

Exophthalmometry

Measures the degree of forward protrusion of the eyeball.

Exophthalmos is a condition that accompanies hyperthyroidism and is a characteri

stic of Graves’ disease.

A test that evaluates whether iron is being adequately stored in the body.

Fetal Biophysical Profile

BPP.

Evaluates the fetus during pregnancy.

 It is done by ultrasonography. Heart rate, fetal breathing movement, gross fetal movements, fetal muscle tone, and amniotic fluid volume are included in this assessment

Provides immediate evaluation of the fetal heart rate (FHR). This is a valuable indicator of fetal distress. Fetal monitoring can be done either internally (invasive) or externally (non-invasive

NST.

 A non-invasive test that measures the fetal heart rate as it responds to fetal movement

An endoscopic examination that directly visualizes the fetus via a small telescope-like scope.

FA.

A radiological examination of the retinal vasculature after the administration of a fluorescein dye. Abnormalities of the retina  can be detected with this test.

An imaging examination in which x-rays are taken through the client to a fluorescent viewing screen.

 The examiner is able to  watch movement in the area being filmed

– while the study (test) is in progress.

FSH. A hormone produced by the pituitary gland (in both males and females).

Aids in ovulation in females. Aids in development

of sperm in males. This test shows the levels of FSH

– which, whether increased or decreased levels, can be indicative of a

variety of diseases or ailments.

This test is used as supportive data to other tests to help determine the response of substances that are administered that induce an increase in gastric acid production.

This study can help with the understanding of the pathophysiology of ulcer disease.

This test measure the percentage of gastric emptying after 2 hours and 4 hours

– after ingesting a meal that contains a radioactive isotope (to aid in visualization).

A variety of gastrointestinal abnormalities can be detected with this test.

A test to assess reflux of the gastric contents through the esophageal sphincter.

This is a nuclear scan that uses an oral radioactive contrast material to allow visualization and evaluation of gastric reflux. Can assess for hiatal hernia.

This is used for routine upper gastrointestinal endoscopy.

 The entire esophagus, stomach, and upper portion (proximal) of the duodenum are examined.

Can evaluate dysphagia, dyspepsia, chronic abdominal pain, GI bleeding, and suspected polyps.

GTT. Measures the blood or urine glucose levels after

administration of an oral carbohydrate challenge.

 Elevated levels of blood glucose can indicate diabetes mellitus. Gestational diabetes, and other disease processes.

Glucose blood testing (by finger puncture)is a fast way to

diagnose hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia.

Fasting glucose testing measures blood glucose level after a 12-hour fast.

The oxygen-carrying compound of the RBCs (red blood cells) in the blood is called hemoglobin.

 A person shows fatique, lethary, and pallor if the hemoglobin is low (possible decrease caused by

abnormal bleeding). Test for hemoglobin diagnoses suspected anemia.

Can also monitor blood loss and replacement

(transfusion).

A radionuclide study that examines the gallbladder, intestines, extrahepatic bile ducts, and hepatic parenchyma.

Can help to diagnose acute or chronic cholecystitis, biliary obstruction, bile leaking, and biliary atresia. Can also diagnose tumours or choledocholithiasis.

A small portable ECG monitor is worn by the patient

– usually over a 24 hour period.

Holter Monitoring enables continuous recording of the client's cardiac electrical activity on tape.

Used to evaluate cardiac electrical activity in a patient who is experiencing symptoms that may indicate disturbance of cardiac  rhythm.

Measures the rate of the hormone secreted from the islets of Langerhans in the pancreas.

Insulin is a hormone secreted normally in response to eleva ted blood glucose.

Used to diagnose early noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus.

Serum iron testing assesses for iron levels in the blood.

Evaluates suspected iron deficiencies or aids in diagnosing conditions characterized by abnormally high levels of iron

Kidney stones can be formed of oxalate, uric acid, calcium, or calcium oxalate. The stone content will determine the treatment.

Kidney Stones, for Kidney Stone Analysis, are obtained by straining the urine. Then the clean, washed stone is examined using infrared spectroscopy.

Allows for the visualization of the larynx (commonly called the voice box) to assess for abnormalities such as abscess, carcinoma, foreign body, hemorrhage, inflammation, or strictures.

 Either a rigid laryngoscope or a flexible fiber-optic endoscope are used.

An invasive procedure.

Liver biopsy is done to diagnose or confirm the cause of chronic liver disease and liver tumours after liver transplants to determine the cause of elevated liver tests if rejection is occurring.

Liver Scan is a non- invasive diagnostic technique evaluating the liver and secondary surrounding areas of the gallbladder and diaphragm

 It is an ultrasound that passes over the right upper

quadrant of the abdomen. The test determines abnormalities of the liver, including the presence of cancer, hepatic fibrosis, and fatty infiltrates.

An invasive procedure. An excision or needle punch sample of lung tissue is obtained under sterile technique.

Aids in the diagnosis of cancer, pulmonary fibrosis, sarcoidosis, and lung infections.

The structure and function of the lungs is evaluated. A lung scan is considered a nuclear medicine procedure

– since a radioactive substance is given by IV for the perfusion method.

Two other methods are ventilation and inhalation scans. Each of these will detect different aspects of the lung’s condition.

Lupus Panel Analyzer consists of 3 different tests to diagnose Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE).

 (The specific test names are not required to be remembered). The 3 tests are blood tests and can help indicate if Lupus is a possibility or not.

Blood test is done to detect Lyme Disease. Lyme disease is transmitted to a person by a deer tick bite.

Manifestations of this

disease are a characteristic ‘bulls-eye’ rash and flu-like symptoms – occurring within a week of the tick bite. If not

treated early it can lead to carditis, arthritis, and Central Nervous System disturbances.

Lymphangiography is a radiographic study of the lymphatic system using x-ray and an oil-based contrast medium into a lymphatic vessel.

It can detect and diagnose lymphoma metastatic disease and lymphedema.

A radiographic study that uses low-dose x-ray technique to examine breast tissue. It is used in conjunction with manual (physical) palpation. It is used to screen for breast cancer or other breast tissue anomalies.

Mantoux Skin Test evaluates whether there is active or dormant tuberculosis infection.

To carry out the test a fraction of tubercule bacilli is injected intradermally (just under the skin). If the patient has active or dormant tuberculosis

– the injection site

will produce and erythema (a raised, reddened area). If the skin reaction is intense, to confirm TB

– sputum tests and chest x-ray must be done.

An endoscopic procedure that allows visualization and biopsy of lymph nodes through a small suprasternal incision.

Mediastinoscopy aids in the diagnosing of cancer, tuberculosis, and histoplasmosis and determining whether lung cancer has spread to the lymph nodes.

The Mumps antibody test is a blood test and is used to diagnose Mumps (an acute contagious febrile disease that is known for the inflammation of the parotid glands (the largest salivary glands) and other salivary glands.

An x-ray of the spine with the subarachnoid space highlighted (augmented with oil-based or water-based agents).

The study allows for visualization of the spinal cord and nerve roots and assists in identifying abnormalities of the spine, spinal cord, or surrounding structures. MRIs are often used in place of myelograms

– since there are lower risks of complications with MRIs.

An x-ray film of the kidney structures.

A contrast medium may be used to provide more definition. This procedure provides clearer visualization since it can penetrate deep shadows.

A surgical procedure (usually as an outpatient) that involves the removal of a small portion of a nerve for microscopic examination.

The nerve biopsy may identify abnormalities of the

nerve or inflammatory nerve conditions.

A test to measure and record electrical activity in skeletal muscles at rest and during voluntary muscle contraction.

 Results aid in determining if abnormalities are due to lower motor neuron disease or those of muscle fiber.

Occult Blood

 blood tests for the presence of blood in the stool as an

indicator of gastrointestinal bleeding.

 Often small amounts of blood are not visible. Occult blood test uses a chemical test to confirm the presence of blood in stool. If blood is confirmed, further testing will be required to determine the source / cause of

the bleeding.

This scan detects colon and ovarian cancers. This involves a method to attach radiolabeled special antigen antibodies to the surface of these specific cancers.

 Then a gamma camera scans the entire body to find the areas of increased radionuclide uptake

– indicating the area of cancer.

Otoscopy allows visualization of the external canal of the ear and the middle ear.

The most common incidence of pathology found in the ear

– using an otoscope – are inflammatory conditions (which can be easily diagnosed).

Oximetry is used to monitor the oxygen saturation of arterial blood

– noninvasively. The sensor is attached to the finger,

earlobe, or toe

– allowing measurement (through a complex

method) of the oxygenated hemoglobin.

The monitor will display the oxygen saturation of the blood in percentages.

Paracentesis is done to remove accumulated fluid from the abdominal cavity for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.

Diagnoses infectious peritonitis. When fluid is drained it can relieve respiratory distress.

A test done to rule out the presence of parasites and their eggs.

A stool specimen is collected to allow for a concentrated sample and a stained smear

Parathyroid Scan detects abnormalities of the parathyroid and surrounding structures.

A special technique is used to separate normal thyroid activity from parathyroid abnormalities.

PTT can indicate the effectiveness of anticoagulation therapy and is a screening test for bleeding tendencies.

Definition of Coagulation: In medicine, coagulation is the clotting of blood. The process by which the blood clots to form solid masses, or clots.

Definition of Anticoagulation: The process of hindering the clotting of blood especially by treatment with an anticoagulant (usually a medication).

Pericardiocentesis is the removal of fluid from the pericardial sac.

It can be done to remove accumulating fluid that causes pressure / compression. Fluid can be removed to examine for diagnostic purposes.

 Drug therapy can be administered directly to the site.

Obtaining a small amount of pleural tissue to examine for malignancy, infection involving the pleura, diagnoses pleural fibrosis, and more.

First, a sample of pleural fluid will be taken for examination

– prior to removing any pleural tissue.

Progesterone testing measures the level of serum progesterone.

Progesterone is produced by the ovary, placenta, and adrenals in the female;

and produced by the adrenals and testes in the male.

Progesterone is a hormone required in the menstrual cycle in women and body preparation for implantation of a fertilized ovum, and more.

Also known as ‘International Normalized Ratio (INR)’.

Prothrombin Time is part of an anticoagulation screen done when a client shows signs and symptoms of bleeding.

Prothrombin Time (PT) is a coagulation test that measures that time it takes to form a fibrin clot (when the blood sample is combined with certain elements)

Note that the PT test alone is a coagulation test.

However, the PT

test is one part of an ‘anticoagulation screen’ (which involves a number of different tests).

Pulmonary Artery Catheterization measures the pumping ability of the heart. It is used to diagnose a number of ailments associat ed with the heart and the surrounding vessels.

The most common Pulmonary Function test is Spirometry.

Pulmonary Function tests provide data on the lung volumes, patterns, and air flow rates involved in respiratory function.

Spirometry measures lung volumes, lung capacities, and flow rates. Depending on the results, further testing can be done.

A contrast dye is injected into the renal artery so that the kidney circulation and tissues of the kidneys can be visualized by x-rays.

Used to diagnose renal tumours, cysts, assess a potential kidney donor, assess post-transplant kidney function, show vascular irregularities, evaluate renal function, and more.

This test has largely b

een replaced by noninvasive computerized

tomography (CT).

Renal Computed Tomography

(Computed Tomography, Renal)

Renal Computed Tomography is able to evaluate benign or malignant diseases of the bladder (as well as the prostate, testes, seminal vesicles, and spermatic cords).

Computed tomography images cross sections of tissue structures of the renal system.

The visualization of the bladder and the urethra with x-ray after administration of a contrast dye into the bladder through a catheter.

Identifies congenital abnormalities of the bladder and urethra.

Identifies many abnormalities of the bladder and urethra such as incomplete emptying, tumours, fistulas, tears or lacerations from trauma, and urinary strictures.

Rh testing measures the Rh factor, which is the system of blood typing that identifies specific proteins on the surface of red blood cells. If the Rh antigen is present

– the person is considered to be Rh positive.

If there are no Rh antigens in the blood test – the person is Rh negative. (Blood types are O, A, B, and AB. Add the

Rh factor and you will have O pos or O neg; A pos or A neg; B

pos or B neg; AB pos or AB neg (the rarest).

Rh testing is routinely done on pregnant women. Also evaluates a potential Rh problem that may arise after a transfusion.

German measles test. Rubella antibodies (in the body) result from an acute viral communicable infection. Usually seen in children or young adults.

Patient will have a red or pink rash, lymphadenopathy, Pharyngitis, and conjunctivitis. (Incubation

period is 14 to 21 days

– after exposure – and is spread by

droplet spray). The blood antibodies will remain for 4 to 5 weeks

– then be gone completely.

If a patient has the measles virus (sometimes called red

measles), antibodies would appear in the blood

– usually 1 to 2 weeks after exposure. This is the time when a patient would

exhibit fever, cough, headache, conjunctivitis, and a rash on the face, trunk, and extremities.

This test detects the rubeola virus (which is transmitted by airborne droplets and causes measles).

Salmonella testing of the blood or stool is the most common route of detection of Salmonella enteritidis. The most common form of salmonellosis is from the ingestion of contaminated food or drink.

A skin test that determines the degree of immunity to diphtheria. It is an intradermal test.

 A positive test - indicated by inflammation or induration at the point of injection. If the test is positive - it indicates that the patient does not have enough

antibodies to diphtheria and would be susceptible to the disease

Measures the absorption of vitamin B12 which indicates if the patient lacks intrinsic factor. Intrinsic factor (from the stomach) is required to be able to absorb B12. This tests determines if the patient is deficient in intrinsic factor.

An endoscopic instrument is used to visualize the sinus areas.

The sinuses may retain secretions that create chronic sinus infections. The sinus endoscopy can help relieve infections and to provide diagnostics to the pathology of the sinus disorder.

X-ray of the sinuses to aid in the diagnosis of acute or chronic sinusitis. Can show obstruction of the nasal sinuses. Detects tumours or abscesses - if specifically requested to evaluate the sinuses.

Tests for increased number (out of the norm) of organisms. Skin Culture may be used to confirm the presence of many possible conditions. Among these might be athlete's foot, scabies, impetigo, warts, and more.

X-ray of the skull is taken to aid in the diagnosis of skull fracture, head injury, radiopaque tumour, or foreign body.

A fluoroscopic study of the small intestine after ingestion of barium sulfate (a contrast material allowing visualization of the

upper intestinal bowel).

This test can detect cancers of the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. May also diagnose

pyloric stenosis, ulcers, polyps, Crohn's disease, enteritis, diverticula, hiatal hernia. Can evaluate malabsorption syndromes, inflamation, weight loss, diarrhea, and Hodgkin's disease.

Sodium is a major component of extracellular fluid in the body. It is vital for life. If levels increase or decrease there can be serious consequences. The sodium test is a blood (or urine) test to determine the sodium levels.

             Spinal Nerve Root Thermography

A non-invasive test that measures the heat emitted from the surface of the skin at two adjacent areas of the spinal column.

The test will help detect the sensory nerve irriation - indicating nerve root injury. Can help diagnose herniated disks; decreased blood flow to the spinal area; condition of nerve roots in lower back region injuries.

Expectorated sputum allows for the examination of the lower respiratory tract secretions. The most common pathogens detected with a sputum culture are bacteria - such as: Streptococcus pneumoniae, Hemophilus influcenzae, Staphylococcus aureus,

Klebsiella species. Fungal infections can be tested in a sputum culture.

Staphylococci is a bacteria that can cause infections and illness -even leading to a condition called septic shock. Staphylococcus tests for the staphylococci bacteria.

Used to dia gnose pathogens, which may be causing abnormal bowel patterns, specifically diarrhea. Stool cultures are most often done to identify enteric (intestinal) disease pathogens

Streptococcus (Anti-Streptolysin 0)

Streptococci is a bacteria responsible for a variety of illnesses (scarlet fever, pneumonia, acute rheumatic fever, strep throat, and acute glomerulonephritis). Rising titers (levels of serum streptococci) - if blood work is done at intervals - are more indicative of infection than one single test. Streptococcus tests for the streptococci bacteria.

Used to diagnose Cystic Fibrosis. It looks at high levels of sodium and chloride in a child's sweat. Sweat is induced then analyzed chemically for sodium and chloride content.

Testosterone is the primary male hormone, an androgen,

responsible for the development of male characteristics.

Commonly done to diagnose sexual dysfunction or infertility.

Hormonally influenced diseases can be indicated.

The recording of temperature in areas of the body - using an infrared device. Relatively hot or cold spots are revealed as the area lacks the ability to adapt to changes in temperature.

Commonly used to study blood flow to the limbs and in detecting breast cancer.

Fluid is withdrawn from the pleural space for examination. (A needle is inserted into the thoracic cavity to facilitate this).

Removal of fluid could be for drainage purposes. Thoracentesis may be done to introduce medication into the pleural space.

This is an operative procedure where a surgical incision is made to allow for insertion of a thorascope. The pleura, pleural spaces, thoracic walls, mediastinum, and pericardium are visualized.

Biopsies and laser procedures can be done while the thorascope is in place.

Used to confirm diagnoses related to the thyroid gland and to monitor disease activity. This is a blood test and is considered

more accurate when done in conjunction with thyroid microsomal antibodies.

Thyroid biopsy helps to determine the tissue type of thyroid cysts and tumours. Ultrasound is used to locate the cyst or tumour - then a sterile needle is inserted to remove thyroid tissue for examination (An excision or needle punch may be used to obtain the tissue). This is an invasive procedure.

The biopsied tissue will be examined microscopically (in a laboratory) for anomalies.

The thyroid biopsy is most commonly used to diagnose thyroid cancer.

Several tests are included to determine thyroid function:

 Total T3, total T4, free T4, T3 uptake, and TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone).

Each of these items is measured in the serum (blood).

Used to evaluate the size, shape, function, and location of the thyroid gland.

A radioactive iodine is ingested and then a nuclear

scan of the neck is done. This test can help identify thyroid nodules, goiter, thyroiditis, and tumours.

A test to help diagnose for hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism and is a way to monitor thyroid replacement therapy and antithyroid drugs.

The primary action of the thyroid gland is to  control the basal metabolic rate.

Measures all the proteins that are available for binding mobile iron. (Transferrin is the largest quantity of the iron-binding proteins).

This test is a better reflection of liver function and

nutrition rather than iron metabolism. Elevated levels of this protein may be found with oral contraceptives, pregnancy, polycythemia, and (especially) iron deficiency anemia.

 Decreased levels would be found with Hypoproteinemia, cirrhosis, and anemia.

Evaluates urine for the presence of drugs. It is the most common toxicology screening tool.

 Metabolites of many drugs are excreted into the urine, allowing for their detection via a urine sample

Also called a Barium Swallow or Upper GI. A barium mixture is swallowed (or a dye preparation) and will show up on x-ray.

 Xrays or fluoroscopic pictures are taken of the upper GI tract. This allows for visualization of the position, peristaltic action, function, and abnormalities of the esophagus, duodenum, and upper portion of the jejunum. Hiatal hernia or leakage of matter into the abdominal cavity can be determined.

Provides a wide spectrum of data from which to make tentative diagnoses. Urinalysis can indicate the need for further studies.

Kidney and urinary tract infections can be screened.

Urinalysis can be done by dipstick in a doctor's office, but microscopic (laboratory) examination can be requested for more intensive study.

It reflects the kidney's ability to concentrate urine and is directly affected by the hydration status of the patient.

Measures the concentration of numbers of particles of solute in a defined amount of solution. Aids in assessing fluid and electrolyte balance.

A test that produces an x-ray of the venous system. It is

normally performed on an extremity to evaluate for obstruction.

Dye is injected into a vein of the arm or leg. X-rays are taken of the blood flow through the veins. Identifies structure, patency, and flow of the venous system.

Radiographic assessment of the status of the heart and

surrounding structures. Usually done in conjunction with a routine common chest x-ray. This test may be used to confirm placement of a central line; pulmonary artery catheters; temporary pacemaker wires; permanent pacemakers; and other invasive devices.

An electrophysiological study performed to determine nerve conduction velocity found in peripheral nerve disease or injury.

The test provides diagnostic information about the location and cause of peripheral nerve abnormalities. Nerve conduction velocities are slowed in diseases that affect peripheral nerves.

Both electromyography and electroneurography use electrodes on the skin and electrical stimuli are recorded to peripheral nerve and muscle contraction responses. Electromyography will record

the muscle reaction. Electroneuromyography will record the nerve response