A Consumer's Guide To Laboratory Tests (Paperback)

When a physician recommends that you undergo a clinical test, most people wonder why they need the test and what the results may say about their health. This informative, accessible, layperson's guide to laboratory tests helps you to understand the many kinds of tests that are performed, exactly what is being tested, and, most importantly, what the results mean.Experienced clinical laboratory scientist Mary C. Ricotta, Ph.D., explains the importance of lab tests in the overall evaluation of health and clarifies the often-confusing medical jargon. Organizing the guide according to various body systems for ease of reference, she discusses:hematology (blood diseases) and coagulation (blood-clotting)blood-bank testing and blood compatibility testingclinical chemistry (glucose, urea, calcium, enzymes, lipids, proteins, electrolytes, and other analytes)microbiology (fungi, parasites, bacteria, and viruses)immunologyurinalysishistology (body tissues)cytology and Pap smearsmolecular biotechnology (DNA testing)Also included are useful appendices that define the body systems and the array of disorders and diseases that can be detected through laboratory tests. A glossary of medical terminology provides useful explanations of unfamiliar terms.This excellent, easy-to-use reference book will help you stay informed about your health and enable you to communicate more effectively with your physician.

Mary C. Ricotta, Ph.D. (Amherst, NY), has worked as a clinical laboratory scientist for Millard Fillmore Hospital in Buffalo, NY; a clinical instructor of histology and hematology in the Department of Medical Technology at SUNY at Buffalo; an associate professor and program director of medical technology for Daemen College; and a clinical laboratory consultant.