59 key biomarkers covering 12 different aspects of your health.
Elevated blood fat levels rarely show symptoms but are a significant risk factor for heart and vascular diseases.
High blood sugar levels can persist for months without symptoms and are a critical risk factor for type 2 diabetes.
Did you know that the most common cause of anemia is iron deficiency? And iron deficiency is common in Sweden.
A lack of vitamins and minerals affects both you and your body.
Measuring C-reactive protein (CRP) can detect ongoing infection or inflammation.
Select the health screening that best fits your needs and goals. Once you’ve placed your order, you will receive detailed instructions via email on how to proceed and book your blood test appointment.
We collaborate with a broad network of testing centers where you can easily book an appointment or drop in for a blood test. You will receive clear instructions on how to prepare for the test in an email.
Your results will be delivered within 2-4 business days to your digital medical record, where a specialist doctor will review and comment on them. Please note that some tests may require longer processing times.
We recommend regular health screenings to detect any potential deviations at an early stage. This gives you the opportunity to take preventive action and reduce the need for future medical care and treatments.
Refrain from eating for at least 10 hours before your blood test.
Skip any supplements containing high levels of biotin (vitamin B7 or H) prior to the test.
Wait to take your thyroid medication until after the blood test.
The blood test should be conducted before 10:00 AM.
At Health Clinic Östermalm, we offer extended hours for easy access to quick diagnosis and treatment. We are open in the evenings and on weekends, so you can get an appointment at a time that suits you!
Welcome to Health Clinic Östermalm, where we offer personalized care with a focus on accessibility and preventive health.
Whether you are seeking advice, treatment, or preventive measures, you can trust that we always prioritize your health.
Östermalm Health Clinic AB is an IVO-registered healthcare provider.
Apolipoprotein A1 (Apo A1) and Apolipoprotein B (Apo B) are two essential proteins involved in the transportation of cholesterol in the bloodstream. Apo A1 is mainly found in HDL particles, commonly known as “good cholesterol,” whereas Apo B is a key component of LDL particles, which are often referred to as “bad cholesterol.” LDL particles can also contain other harmful lipids, such as VLDL and IDL, which are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
The ratio between these two proteins, known as the ApoB/ApoA1 ratio, provides a clear picture of the balance between “good” and “bad” cholesterol particles in the blood. Elevated Apo B levels indicate a high concentration of LDL cholesterol in the blood, which increases the risk of plaque build-up in the arteries (atherosclerosis), heart attack, and stroke. Conversely, high levels of Apo A1 are linked to higher concentrations of HDL cholesterol, which helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by promoting the reabsorption of lipids back into the body.
Regular monitoring of the ApoB/ApoA1 ratio can, therefore, be an effective way to assess and prevent cardiovascular diseases.
Apolipoprotein A1 (Apo A1) is a carrier protein that forms a central part of the HDL cholesterol particle, also known as “good cholesterol.” The levels of Apo A1 in the blood indicate the amount of HDL particles present, which are linked to the body’s ability to transport excess cholesterol from tissues to the liver for breakdown and excretion.
Low levels of Apo A1, or an overall deficiency in HDL cholesterol, can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Measuring Apo A1 can therefore help assess an individual’s risk of developing conditions such as heart attack or stroke and can be used alongside other markers to provide a more comprehensive view of heart health.
Regular monitoring of Apo A1 levels can help detect changes early on and enable preventive measures to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Apolipoprotein B (Apo B) is a carrier protein that is a component of the LDL cholesterol particle, also known as “bad cholesterol.” Apo B is also a crucial element in other harmful lipid particles such as VLDL (Very Low-Density Lipoprotein) and IDL (Intermediate-Density Lipoprotein). These lipid particles are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases as they contribute to the buildup of plaque in the walls of blood vessels, leading to atherosclerosis.
Elevated levels of Apo B in the blood indicate a higher amount of these harmful cholesterol particles and are strongly linked to an increased risk of developing cardiovascular conditions such as heart attack and stroke. Therefore, measuring Apo B is an important marker for assessing cardiovascular risk and can be used as a complement to other cholesterol tests to provide a more comprehensive view of an individual’s heart health.
HDL cholesterol, or “High Density Lipoprotein,” is a type of carrier protein for cholesterol in the blood, often referred to as “good cholesterol.” This is because HDL has the ability to transport excess cholesterol away from the blood vessels and back to the liver, where it can be broken down and eliminated from the body. This process helps prevent the buildup of fats in the arterial walls, thereby reducing the risk of atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases.
Measuring HDL cholesterol levels can provide insight into how efficiently the body manages and removes excess cholesterol. As part of a broader lipid profile, HDL is used to assess an individual’s risk for heart disease. Higher levels of HDL cholesterol are considered protective, while lower levels may be a risk factor for developing cardiovascular conditions.
Non-HDL cholesterol, also known as non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, is a marker used to assess the risk of cardiovascular diseases. It includes all types of cholesterol that are not part of “good cholesterol” (HDL). In other words, non-HDL cholesterol encompasses lipoproteins such as LDL (low-density lipoprotein), VLDL (very low-density lipoprotein), and other harmful lipid particles that can contribute to plaque formation in blood vessels.
Since non-HDL cholesterol reflects the total amount of cholesterol that could potentially lead to atherosclerosis and block blood vessels, it provides a more comprehensive view of heart disease risk than LDL cholesterol alone. Elevated non-HDL levels are therefore associated with an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
LDL cholesterol (Low-Density Lipoprotein), often referred to as “bad cholesterol,” is a type of lipoprotein that transports cholesterol in the blood. Unlike “good” HDL cholesterol, elevated levels of LDL can lead to cholesterol deposits in the walls of blood vessels, which can cause atherosclerosis.
An increased amount of LDL cholesterol indicates a higher risk of developing cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes. Therefore, it is important to regularly monitor LDL levels to detect and prevent potential heart issues at an early stage.
Total cholesterol refers to the overall amount of cholesterol present in the blood, including both LDL (“bad cholesterol”) and HDL (“good cholesterol”). Cholesterol is a fatty substance that plays a crucial role in the body, necessary for building cell membranes, producing hormones, and synthesizing vitamin D.
Cholesterol can come from two sources: through diet or by the body producing it in the liver. Elevated levels of cholesterol in the blood can lead to its accumulation in the walls of blood vessels, which may cause narrowing and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes. Therefore, it is important to regularly monitor and balance cholesterol levels to maintain good heart health.
Triglycerides are a form of fat found in the blood that the body uses as an energy source. They, along with cholesterol, represent the main types of fats present in the body. We primarily obtain triglycerides from the foods we eat, and they are stored as fat tissue in the body to be used for energy between meals.
Elevated triglyceride levels can occur if the body does not consume all the energy provided through the diet, leading to excess being stored in the blood vessels and liver. High levels of triglycerides can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, fatty liver, and other health issues. Regular monitoring of triglyceride levels can help identify and prevent potential risks to heart health early on.
High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) is a marker that measures chronic, low-grade inflammation in the body. This type of inflammation is linked to an increased risk of future cardiovascular diseases, making hs-CRP a valuable tool in assessing heart health risk.
Unlike traditional CRP, which is typically used to detect acute infections and inflammatory conditions, hs-CRP is more sensitive and can identify even small changes in inflammation levels. Regular measurement of hs-CRP can provide better insights into your long-term heart health and help identify hidden risks before they develop into serious illnesses.
C-peptide is a protein fragment that is released as a byproduct when the pancreas produces insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels after meals. For the cells in the body to absorb sugar from the bloodstream and use it for energy, adequate amounts of insulin are required.
When the pancreas produces and releases insulin after we eat, the levels of C-peptide in the blood also increase. Since insulin is more challenging to measure directly, measuring C-peptide can provide an estimate of how much insulin the body produces. This makes C-peptide a useful marker for assessing pancreatic function and detecting potential issues in insulin production, such as in diabetes or other endocrine disorders.
Glucose, also known as dextrose, is the primary source of energy for the body’s cells and plays a crucial role in the normal functioning of our organs. It is also the main fuel for the brain. The body strives to maintain stable glucose levels using two key hormones produced by the pancreas: insulin and glucagon.
After we eat, blood sugar levels rise, and the body releases insulin to help cells absorb glucose from the bloodstream and convert it into energy. When blood sugar levels drop, such as during intense physical activity or fasting, the production of glucagon increases, signaling the liver to release stored glucose back into the blood. If the body does not produce enough insulin, or if the cells do not respond to insulin as they should, blood sugar levels rise. This is what occurs in diabetes and can lead to long-term health problems if not managed properly.
HbA1c, also known as “long-term sugar,” measures the amount of glucose (sugar) that has bonded to hemoglobin in red blood cells. Since red blood cells have a lifespan of approximately 2–3 months, HbA1c provides an average measurement of blood sugar levels over this period. This makes it a reliable marker for assessing long-term blood sugar control and for detecting or monitoring diabetes.
Hematocrit, also known as erythrocyte volume fraction (EVF), indicates the percentage of red blood cells in the blood volume. Red blood cells play a central role in the body’s oxygen transport by binding oxygen from the inhaled air in the lungs and delivering it to the body’s tissues and organs. They also pick up carbon dioxide from the tissues and transport it back to the lungs, where it is eliminated through exhalation. Maintaining an appropriate hematocrit level is crucial for efficient oxygen transport and sustaining the body’s energy levels.
Hemoglobin (Hb), often referred to as blood value, is a protein found inside red blood cells (erythrocytes). The primary function of hemoglobin is to bind oxygen molecules from the inhaled air in the lungs so that the red blood cells can transport oxygen to the body’s tissues and organs. Additionally, hemoglobin helps the red blood cells maintain their shape, which is crucial for their ability to flow efficiently through blood vessels and deliver oxygen where it is needed.
Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) is a measure of the average size of red blood cells. The primary role of red blood cells is to transport oxygen molecules from the inhaled air in the lungs and deliver that oxygen to all parts of the body. A significant portion of this oxygen binds to the hemoglobin molecules found within the red blood cells. By measuring MCV, one can gain a better understanding of the function and size of red blood cells, which can provide important information about the blood’s ability to transport oxygen.
Leukocytes, also known as white blood cells, are a crucial component of the body’s immune system. The Leukocyte Particle Concentration (LPC) test measures the number of white blood cells in the blood. These cells act as the body’s defense mechanism against infections and diseases by combating harmful microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses. Elevated or decreased levels of leukocytes can indicate various health conditions, including ongoing infections, inflammation, or immune system-related disorders.
Erythrocytes, also known as red blood cells, are cells responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the body’s tissues and carrying carbon dioxide back to the lungs for exhalation. The Erythrocyte Particle Concentration (EPC) test measures the number of red blood cells per liter of blood and serves as an indicator of their concentration in the bloodstream. Maintaining the appropriate number of red blood cells is essential for ensuring effective oxygen transport and sustaining the body’s energy levels.
What are Thrombocytes (Platelets)?
Thrombocytes, also known as platelets, are small cell fragments in the blood that play a crucial role in the body’s ability to coagulate and stop bleeding. When there is damage to blood vessels, thrombocytes quickly gather at the site of injury and clump together to form a plug that prevents blood loss. They also participate in other processes within the coagulation system, making them essential for maintaining the body’s ability to heal and prevent excessive bleeding.
Transferrin is a protein responsible for transporting iron in the blood. When old red blood cells are broken down in the spleen, iron is released and then binds to transferrin for transport to the bone marrow, where it is used to form new red blood cells. Transferrin also plays an important role in the absorption of iron from food in the intestines, making it essential for maintaining a healthy iron balance and blood formation in the body.
Transferrin saturation is a measure of how much of the transport protein transferrin is saturated with iron. Transferrin acts as an iron transporter in the blood, binding to iron released from the breakdown of old red blood cells in the spleen. The iron is then transported to the bone marrow, where it is used to form new red blood cells. Transferrin saturation can provide an indication of the body’s iron levels and the absorption of iron from dietary sources, which is essential for maintaining healthy blood formation and iron balance.
Iron is an essential mineral that plays a critical role in the body’s oxygen transport and energy production. It is a vital component of hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells that is responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to the body’s tissues, as well as removing carbon dioxide back to the lungs for exhalation. Low iron levels can lead to anemia, which impairs oxygen transport and can result in symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, and shortness of breath. This condition is known as iron deficiency anemia.
Iron is also necessary for normal muscle function and for the efficient operation of the body’s organs. The body obtains iron through the food we eat, with sources found in both animal and plant-based foods.
Ferritin is a protein that stores iron in the body and serves as an indicator of the body’s iron reserves. Iron is an essential mineral necessary for the formation of hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells. The primary function of hemoglobin is to transport oxygen from the lungs to the body’s tissues and to carry carbon dioxide back from the tissues to the lungs, where it is eliminated through exhalation.
By measuring ferritin levels, one can assess the body’s iron reserves, helping to identify iron deficiency or iron overload and thereby preventing related health issues.
MCH, or “Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin,” is a value that indicates the amount of hemoglobin in each individual red blood cell. Hemoglobin is the protein that binds oxygen from the inhaled air in the lungs and transports it to all parts of the body. It plays a crucial role in oxygen transport, ensuring that the body’s cells receive adequate oxygen to perform their functions.
By measuring MCH, one can gain insight into the oxygen-carrying capacity of red blood cells and identify deviations early that may affect the body’s oxygen supply.
Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is an essential nutrient required for the formation of red blood cells and for the optimal functioning of the nervous system. Since the body cannot produce vitamin B12 on its own, it must be obtained through diet. A deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to anemia and neurological issues that may impact both physical and mental health.
Homocysteine is an amino acid and an important building block for the body’s proteins. Normally, homocysteine is converted into other amino acids, but this process requires adequate levels of B vitamins, such as B6 (pyridoxine), B9 (folate), and B12 (cobalamin), as well as specific enzymes. Elevated levels of homocysteine in the blood can result from deficiencies in these B vitamins or be associated with certain conditions, such as kidney disease, hypothyroidism, psoriasis, and the use of specific medications like omeprazole, statins, metformin, and certain antiepileptics.
Studies suggest that high levels of homocysteine may be a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. However, it has not yet been proven that supplementation with B vitamins reduces the risk of these diseases in individuals with elevated homocysteine levels. Therefore, further research is needed to provide clear recommendations.
Folate, also known as vitamin B9, is essential for growth and cell formation. It plays a crucial role in the production of red blood cells and other cells in the body. For pregnant women, folate is particularly important as it contributes to healthy fetal development and supports milk production during breastfeeding.
Vitamin D, unlike other vitamins, also functions as a steroid hormone and plays a central role in regulating the body’s calcium and phosphate balance. This vitamin is essential for building and maintaining strong bones, as well as for normal cell division and a well-functioning immune system. Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to various health conditions, such as seasonal depression, fatigue, fibromyalgia, and an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Magnesium is an essential trace element crucial for many of the body’s functions. It is necessary for proper nerve and muscle function, normal energy metabolism, and the correct formation of genes. Since the body cannot produce magnesium on its own, it must be obtained through the diet. Magnesium deficiency typically results from insufficient intake through food or from medications that impair the body’s absorption of the mineral in the intestines.
Approximately 60% of the body’s magnesium is stored in the bones, 39% in cells (with half of that in muscle cells), and only 1% is found outside the cells, such as in the blood, where it can be measured. Because magnesium is involved in various processes, a deficiency can manifest symptoms in multiple organs. Symptoms often appear late and can be diffuse, including fatigue, confusion, apathy, depression, heart rhythm disturbances, and muscle cramps.
High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) is a marker that measures chronic, low-grade inflammation in the body. This type of inflammation is linked to an increased risk of future cardiovascular diseases, making hs-CRP a valuable tool in assessing heart health risk.
Unlike traditional CRP, which is typically used to detect acute infections and inflammatory conditions, hs-CRP is more sensitive and can identify even small changes in inflammation levels. Regular measurement of hs-CRP can provide better insights into your long-term heart health and help identify hidden risks before they develop into serious illnesses.
Triiodothyronine (T3) is one of the two main hormones produced by the thyroid gland and has a significant impact on the body’s metabolism. Along with thyroxine (T4), T3 regulates the body’s energy expenditure, growth, and development. A small amount of T3 is produced directly in the thyroid gland, but the majority is converted from the inactive T4 hormone, primarily in the liver and kidneys.
Almost all T4 and T3 in the blood are bound to proteins, but only the free form of T3 has an active effect on the body’s metabolism. Therefore, the level of free T3 is measured during testing, as it provides a more accurate picture of the hormone’s effects on the body’s functions.
Thyroxine (T4) is one of the two main hormones produced by the thyroid gland and plays a central role in the body’s metabolism. Although T4 is relatively inactive on its own, it is converted into triiodothyronine (T3), which is the more biologically active hormone, in organs such as the liver and kidneys. T3 has a direct effect on metabolism and regulates energy expenditure and growth, among other functions.
Almost all T4 and T3 in the blood are bound to proteins, but only the free hormones (unbound) have an active effect on the body’s metabolism. Therefore, the level of free T4 is measured during testing to provide an accurate picture of thyroid function and its impact on metabolism.
Levaxin (or Euthyrox), commonly prescribed for hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), is a synthetic form of T4. This medication aims to normalize T4 levels in the body for individuals who do not produce sufficient amounts of this hormone naturally from the thyroid gland.
TSH, or Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone, is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland, a small gland located in the brain. TSH acts as a “messenger” that regulates the activity of the thyroid gland by stimulating it to produce and release the important hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones are crucial for regulating the body’s metabolism, influencing energy expenditure, growth, and many other physiological processes.
The level of TSH in the blood is often used as an indicator of how well the thyroid gland is functioning. Elevated TSH levels may suggest that the thyroid is underactive (hypothyroidism), while low levels can be a sign of overactivity (hyperthyroidism).
Luteinizing hormone (LH) is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that plays a crucial role in regulating fertility in both women and men. In men, LH stimulates the production of testosterone in the testes, which is essential for spermatogenesis (the formation of sperm).
In women, LH levels vary throughout the menstrual cycle, reaching their peak during ovulation, which triggers the release of an egg from the ovary. This fluctuation is a key factor in female fertility, while LH levels in men tend to remain more stable over time.
SHBG, or Sex Hormone Binding Globulin, is a protein produced in the liver that serves as the primary transport protein for sex hormones, including testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, and estradiol, in the blood. When these sex hormones are bound to SHBG, which typically applies to 97-98% of them, they cannot exert any biological effect. Only the 2-3% of hormones that remain unbound in the blood are capable of crossing cell membranes and affecting target organs.
Testosterone is a male sex hormone that plays a crucial role for both women and men, influencing various functions in the body. Among its most recognized effects are its impact on sexual development, libido, muscle function, and muscle mass. In men, testosterone is primarily produced in the testes, a process stimulated by the pituitary hormone luteinizing hormone (LH). Testosterone is essential for the development of male secondary sexual characteristics during puberty, such as increased muscle mass, body hair, and a deeper voice. It also plays a significant role in sperm production and contributes to growth during puberty.
Testosterone levels fluctuate throughout life and are typically highest in the 40s. A smaller amount of testosterone is also produced in the adrenal glands.
Bioactive testosterone refers to the portion of testosterone in the body that is free and readily available for use. By measuring bioactive testosterone, one can obtain a more accurate representation of the actual levels available for the body to utilize. The total testosterone value includes both free testosterone and the testosterone that is bound to proteins. Since protein-bound testosterone is not biologically active, measuring bioactive testosterone provides a more relevant assessment of the body’s functional testosterone levels.
Alanine aminotransferase (ALAT) is an enzyme primarily produced in the liver. A blood test measuring ALAT assesses the amount of this enzyme in the blood and is used to evaluate liver health and function. Since ALAT is released when liver cells are damaged, elevated levels may indicate liver damage or liver issues, such as inflammation or other conditions affecting the liver.
Aspartate aminotransferase (ASAT) is an enzyme primarily produced in the liver, but it is also present in smaller amounts in the heart and skeletal muscles. When these organs are damaged or affected by disease, ASAT is released from the cells, leading to elevated levels in the blood. Therefore, an ASAT test is often used to assess liver health and to detect damage to the heart or muscles.
Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme found throughout the body, with higher concentrations in the liver and bones. ALP plays a crucial role in the breakdown of proteins and is essential for many biological processes. Elevated ALP levels in the blood may indicate liver or bone disease, as these organs release ALP when they are damaged or affected by illness.
Gamma-GT (Gamma-glutamyltransferase) is an enzyme primarily produced in the liver, but it is also present in the kidneys, prostate, pancreas, and testicles. Elevated levels of Gamma-GT in the blood may indicate liver or bile duct disease, as the enzyme is released during damage or dysfunction in these organs. Therefore, Gamma-GT is often used as part of a comprehensive liver function analysis.
Albumin is the most abundant protein in the body and is produced in the liver. Its primary functions include transporting other proteins and substances throughout the bloodstream and maintaining the fluid balance of the blood. Albumin helps prevent fluid from leaking into the body’s tissues, which can otherwise lead to swelling, known as edema.
Calcium is an essential element found in large quantities in the body and serves several important functions. Approximately 99% of the body’s calcium is stored in the skeleton, while a smaller portion is present in the blood. The calcium levels in the blood provide an indication of the body’s calcium metabolism and play a crucial role in maintaining strong bones and healthy teeth. Additionally, calcium is necessary for proper muscle function and the functioning of nerve cells.
Chloride, also known as chloride ion (Cl-), belongs to a group of substances called electrolytes, along with sodium and potassium. Chloride plays an important role in the body, working in conjunction with other electrolytes to ensure that cells function optimally and to maintain the body’s fluid and salt balance. Together with hydrogen, chloride forms gastric acid (hydrochloric acid) in the stomach, which is essential for digestion and protection against bacteria and other microorganisms. Chloride is found in many foods, primarily in table salt (sodium chloride), and the body’s chloride levels are naturally regulated.
Cystatin C is a protein produced by the body’s cells and filtered by the kidneys before being excreted. Due to this process, cystatin C serves as a reliable indicator of kidney function. Unlike creatinine, cystatin C is not affected by an individual’s muscle mass, gender, or dietary intake (especially meat consumption), making it a more accurate marker for assessing kidney health, particularly in individuals with extremely high or low muscle mass. Additionally, measuring cystatin C can detect mild kidney dysfunction earlier than what is possible with creatinine levels, allowing for early diagnosis and treatment.
eGFR, which stands for Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate, is a measure of the kidneys’ filtration capacity and indicates how effectively the kidneys filter waste products from the blood. eGFR (Cystatin C) is calculated based on the cystatin C level in the blood, as well as the individual’s age and gender. A higher cystatin C value indicates poorer kidney function, resulting in a lower eGFR value. By measuring eGFR, one can detect impaired kidney function early and assess the kidneys’ ability to filter blood, which is crucial for identifying and treating kidney issues at an early stage.
Creatinine is a breakdown product of creatine phosphate found in muscles and is used as a measure of kidney function. It is normally excreted at a consistent rate through the kidneys; however, if the kidneys are not functioning properly, creatinine accumulates in the blood, leading to elevated levels. Therefore, the creatinine value is an important tool for assessing the kidneys’ ability to filter blood and excrete waste products.⬤
eGFR, or estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate, is a value used to estimate the kidneys’ ability to filter blood and remove waste products. GFR (Glomerular Filtration Rate) can be measured in various ways, but the most common method is to use eGFR, which is calculated based on the creatinine level along with the person’s age and gender.
Since creatinine levels depend on a person’s muscle mass, eGFR results can be influenced by this factor and may not always provide an accurate representation of kidney function. Despite this, eGFR (creatinine) is a valuable tool for identifying impaired kidney function and monitoring kidney health over time.
eGFR (Mean) is an average value used to assess kidney function by calculating the estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR). This value is typically based on the average of two different eGFR measurements that use various biomarkers in the blood—most commonly creatinine and cystatin C.
Creatinine is a byproduct of muscle metabolism and serves as a traditional marker for estimating kidney function. Cystatin C is a protein produced by the body’s cells and is excreted through the kidneys. Since cystatin C levels are not influenced by muscle mass, unlike creatinine, combining these two values provides a more reliable and accurate picture of the kidneys’ filtration capacity than using just one marker.
Phosphate is an essential substance found in various locations within the body and plays a central role in many biological processes. It is a crucial component of the skeleton, is part of the DNA structure, and contributes to energy production and signaling within cells. Phosphate levels in the blood plasma are primarily regulated by activated vitamin D, parathyroid hormone, and various growth factors, making it a key player in maintaining the balance of minerals in the body and ensuring normal function of cells and tissues.
Potassium is an essential mineral and electrolyte that plays a crucial role in many bodily functions. It contributes to the normal functioning of the nervous system and muscles by regulating electrical signals in cells. Along with other electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium helps balance the body’s fluid levels and maintain proper acid-base balance. A correct potassium balance is vital for heart function, blood pressure regulation, and muscle contractions.
Sodium is a mineral that plays a central role in maintaining the body’s fluid and salt balance. It is also essential for the cells to perform their normal functions and for the body’s organs to function optimally. The regulation of sodium levels is a complex process that involves several organs, including the brain, heart, kidneys, and adrenal glands, ensuring that balance is maintained at a stable level.
The prostate is a small, walnut-sized gland located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. It surrounds the urethra, which is the tube through which urine and semen exit the body. The primary function of the prostate is to produce a fluid that nourishes and transports sperm.
One of the blood tests performed at the clinic is the PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test, which measures the level of PSA in your blood. Elevated levels of PSA may indicate inflammation of the prostate gland or the presence of benign or malignant changes in the prostate.
Before undergoing a PSA test, it is recommended to read the brochure “About PSA Testing,” which outlines the potential benefits and drawbacks of PSA screening, as stated by national guidelines.
Prostate cancer is uncommon in men under the age of 50. Therefore, PSA testing is generally not recommended for younger men unless there is a family history of the disease. An exception is made for men aged 40-49 who have a brother or father diagnosed with prostate cancer before the age of 55. The decision to offer PSA testing only to individuals over the age of 40 is based on national guidelines and the relatively low prevalence of prostate cancer in younger age groups.
Heart & Vessels
Blood Sugar
Blood & Iron
Vitamins & Minerals
Inflammation
Thyroid
Hormones
Liver
Kidney
Prostate