Educational test directory

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Explore testing guides · Common tests and ordering steps

Test overview

Glucose

Measures the amount of glucose, a type of sugar, in your blood.

Health topic
Blood sugar
Collection
Blood Sugar & Diabetes

Read the Glucose guide →

Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: blood sugar; blood glucose; fasting glucose; random glucose; FPG; FBS; FBG; blood sugar; blood glucose; FPG; FBS; FBG; Blood glucose; Fasting glucose; Random glucose; blood sugar blood glucose sugar test; Blood Sugar & Diabetes

Preparation: Fasting and random glucose use different collection timing. Confirm which order you have; do not fast for a random test unless instructed for another reason. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Fasting and random glucose are timing variants; their interpretation is not interchangeable. Neither is the same as A1c.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Hemoglobin A1c · Insulin (including fasting insulin) · Comprehensive metabolic panel

References: Blood Glucose Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Timing variant

Fasting glucose

Measures blood glucose after a fasting period. This is a timed version of a glucose test.

Health topic
Blood sugar
Collection
Blood Sugar & Diabetes

Read the Fasting glucose guide →

Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: blood sugar; blood glucose; fasting glucose; random glucose; FPG; FBS; FBG; blood sugar; blood glucose; FPG; FBS; FBG; Blood glucose; Fasting glucose; Random glucose; fpg fbg fbs fasting plasma glucose fasting blood sugar; Blood Sugar & Diabetes

Preparation: Fasting and random glucose use different collection timing. Confirm which order you have; do not fast for a random test unless instructed for another reason. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Fasting and random glucose are timing variants; their interpretation is not interchangeable. Neither is the same as A1c.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Hemoglobin A1c · Insulin (including fasting insulin) · Comprehensive metabolic panel

References: Blood Glucose Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Timing variant

Random glucose

Measures blood glucose at any time, without a planned fast.

Health topic
Blood sugar
Collection
Blood Sugar & Diabetes

Read the Random glucose guide →

Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: blood sugar; blood glucose; fasting glucose; random glucose; FPG; FBS; FBG; blood sugar; blood glucose; FPG; FBS; FBG; Blood glucose; Fasting glucose; Random glucose; random blood sugar rbg random plasma glucose; Blood Sugar & Diabetes

Preparation: Fasting and random glucose use different collection timing. Confirm which order you have; do not fast for a random test unless instructed for another reason. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Fasting and random glucose are timing variants; their interpretation is not interchangeable. Neither is the same as A1c.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Hemoglobin A1c · Insulin (including fasting insulin) · Comprehensive metabolic panel

References: Blood Glucose Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual test

Hemoglobin A1c

Shows your average blood sugar over about two to three months. Also called HbA1c.

Health topic
Blood sugar
Collection
Blood Sugar & Diabetes

Read the Hemoglobin A1c guide →

Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: A1c; HbA1c; glycated hemoglobin; A1c; HbA1c; glycated hemoglobin; glycosylated hemoglobin; Hemoglobin A1c; a1c hba1c glycated hemoglobin glycohemoglobin average blood sugar glycosylated hemoglobin; Blood Sugar & Diabetes

Preparation: A1c alone generally does not require fasting. Other tests in the same order may require it. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Red-cell lifespan, some hemoglobin variants and other health conditions can affect accuracy. A1c does not show sudden glucose changes.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Glucose (fasting and random) · Estimated average glucose · Complete blood count (CBC)

References: Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Timing variant

Fasting insulin

Measures insulin in blood after a fast. Insulin is a hormone that helps control blood sugar.

Read the fasting insulin guide →

Health topic
Blood sugar
Collection
Blood Sugar & Diabetes
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: fasting insulin; insulin level; insulin level; fasting insulin; Fasting insulin; insulin fasting insulin serum insulin; Blood Sugar & Diabetes

Preparation: A fasting sample is commonly required. Ask for the exact fasting period and advice about medicines and biotin supplements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Insulin is not the same as glucose or C-peptide. A result alone does not diagnose insulin resistance or establish a need for treatment.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Glucose (fasting and random) · Hemoglobin A1c · Estimated average glucose

References: Insulin in Blood Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Timed test procedure

Oral glucose tolerance test

Checks blood glucose before and after a glucose drink, using samples taken at set times.

Health topic
Blood sugar
Collection
Blood Sugar & Diabetes
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: OGTT; glucose tolerance; two-hour glucose; OGTT; two-hour glucose; glucose tolerance; Oral glucose tolerance test; Two-hour glucose; ogtt glucose tolerance blood sugar; Blood Sugar & Diabetes

Preparation: Follow the exact glucose-drink, fasting and timed-sampling instructions. Pregnancy testing protocols and a casual two-hour-after-meal sample are not automatically equivalent. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: The drink, collection times and purpose must match the order. A two-hour glucose label alone does not define the full procedure.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Glucose (fasting and random) · Hemoglobin A1c · Estimated average glucose

References: Diabetes Tests; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual test

C-peptide

Helps show how much insulin your body makes.

Health topic
Blood sugar
Collection
Blood Sugar & Diabetes
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: C peptide; insulin production; C peptide; insulin production; C-peptide; c peptide cpeptide own insulin blood sugar; Blood Sugar & Diabetes

Preparation: Collection may be fasting, after food, or part of a timed procedure. Confirm the purpose and timing of your order. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: C-peptide reflects insulin made by the body and differs from injected insulin and a direct insulin measurement.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Glucose (fasting and random) · Hemoglobin A1c · Estimated average glucose

References: C-Peptide Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual test

Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)

Measures a hormone that tells your thyroid how much thyroid hormone to make.

Read the thyroid testing guide →

Health topic
Thyroid
Collection
Thyroid

Read the TSH versus TSH with reflex testing guide →

Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: TSH; thyrotropin; thyroid stimulating hormone; TSH; thyrotropin; thyroid stimulating hormone; Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH); tsh thyrotropin thyroid; Thyroid

Preparation: Fasting may be requested. Confirm the exact order’s instructions rather than using one fasting rule for all tests. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: TSH is made by the pituitary, not the thyroid. It is often interpreted with thyroid-hormone results.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Free T4 · Total T4 · Free T3

References: TSH (Thyroid-stimulating hormone) Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Panel

Lipid panel

Checks cholesterol and triglycerides, a type of fat in your blood.

Health topic
Cholesterol
Collection
Cholesterol & Heart Health

Read the Lipid panels versus advanced lipid tests guide →

Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: lipid profile; cholesterol panel; lipid profile; cholesterol panel; Lipid panel; lipids cholesterol hdl ldl triglycerides lipid profile; Cholesterol & Heart Health

Preparation: Fasting may be requested. Confirm the exact order’s instructions rather than using one fasting rule for all tests. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: A standard lipid panel does not automatically include ApoB, lipoprotein(a), or particle analysis.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Total cholesterol · LDL cholesterol (calculated and direct) · HDL cholesterol

References: Cholesterol Levels; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual test

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT)

Measures ALT, an enzyme found mainly in the liver.

Read the liver testing guide →

Health topic
Liver
Collection
Liver
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ALT; SGPT; ALT; SGPT; liver enzyme; Alanine aminotransferase (ALT); alt sgpt liver enzyme; Liver

Preparation: Fasting may be requested. Confirm the exact order’s instructions rather than using one fasting rule for all tests. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: ALT is a liver-injury marker; one result does not identify the cause or measure every liver function.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) · Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) · Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT)

References: ALT Blood Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual test

Aspartate aminotransferase (AST)

Measures AST, an enzyme found in the liver, muscles, and other tissues.

Read the liver testing guide →

Health topic
Liver
Collection
Liver
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: AST; SGOT; AST; SGOT; liver enzyme; Aspartate aminotransferase (AST); ast sgot liver enzyme; Liver

Preparation: Fasting may be requested. Confirm the exact order’s instructions rather than using one fasting rule for all tests. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: AST can come from muscle and other tissues as well as liver. It is not specific to one organ.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) · Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) · Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT)

References: AST Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual test

Creatinine

Measures a waste product that your kidneys remove from your blood.

Read the kidney testing guide →

Health topic
Kidney
Collection
Kidney Function & Electrolytes
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: serum creatinine; urine creatinine; kidney blood test; serum creatinine; urine creatinine; Creatinine; creatinine renal kidney function; Kidney Function & Electrolytes

Preparation: Food, including meat, and some medicines or supplements can affect the result. Follow the order’s diet and collection instructions. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Muscle activity, diet and medicines can affect creatinine. It is not the same as a measured GFR.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) · Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) · Cystatin C

References: Creatinine Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Calculated value

Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR)

Uses blood-test results and other information to estimate how well your kidneys filter blood.

Read the kidney testing guide →

Health topic
Kidney
Collection
Kidney Function & Electrolytes
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: eGFR; estimated kidney filtration; eGFR; GFR; kidney filtration; Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR); egfr gfr kidney filtration renal function; Kidney Function & Electrolytes

Preparation: Preparation depends on the creatinine or cystatin C measurement used. Ask whether food or fasting instructions apply. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: eGFR is an estimate, not a directly measured filtration test. Body size, age and other conditions can affect accuracy.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Creatinine (blood and urine) · Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) · Cystatin C

References: Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) and GFR Tests; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Panel

Complete blood count (CBC)

Checks blood cells, including red cells, white cells, and platelets.

Health topic
Blood counts
Collection
Blood Counts & Anemia

Read the Complete blood count (CBC) guide →

Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: CBC; full blood count; CBC with differential; CBC; full blood count; blood cell count; Complete blood count (CBC); cbc full blood count blood cell count; Blood Counts & Anemia

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: A CBC does not automatically include a white-cell differential, iron or ferritin.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Ferritin · Vitamin B12 · Red blood cell count

References: Complete Blood Count (CBC); MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual test

Vitamin B12

Measures the amount of vitamin B12 in your blood.

Health topic
Vitamins
Collection
Iron, Vitamins & Nutrients
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: B12; cobalamin; cobalamin; B12; vitamin B-12; Vitamin B12; b12 b 12 cobalamin vitamin b12; Iron, Vitamins & Nutrients

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: The measured B12 concentration is interpreted with symptoms and, when needed, other tests. Do not infer a supplement dose from one result.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Ferritin · Serum iron · Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC)

References: Vitamin B Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual test

Ferritin

Measures an iron-storage protein to help assess stored iron.

Health topic
Minerals
Collection
Iron, Vitamins & Nutrients

Read the Ferritin guide →

Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: serum ferritin; iron stores; serum ferritin; iron stores; Ferritin; ferritin iron stores iron storage serum ferritin; Iron, Vitamins & Nutrients

Preparation: Ferritin-only and combined iron orders can have different fasting instructions. Confirm the exact order; do not use one provider’s rule for every ferritin test. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Ferritin reflects storage but can rise with inflammation and other conditions. A high result alone does not prove iron overload.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Iron panel · Serum iron · Complete blood count (CBC)

References: Ferritin Blood Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual test

Magnesium

Measures the amount of magnesium, a mineral, in your blood.

Health topic
Minerals
Collection
Kidney Function & Electrolytes
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: Mg; serum magnesium; Mg; serum magnesium; Magnesium; mg magnesium serum mineral; Kidney Function & Electrolytes

Preparation: Fasting may be requested. Confirm the exact order’s instructions rather than using one fasting rule for all tests. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Creatinine (blood and urine) · Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) · Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)

References: Magnesium Blood Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual test

Total testosterone

Measures both protein-bound and free testosterone in your blood.

Read the testosterone testing guide →

Health topic
Hormones
Collection
Hormones & Reproductive Health
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: total T; testosterone; total T; testosterone; Total testosterone; testosterone total t hormone; Hormones & Reproductive Health

Preparation: Morning collection is commonly used. Ask about fasting, hormone treatment and the timing of repeat measurements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: One testosterone result alone does not diagnose a hormone disorder. Total, free and bioavailable results differ.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Free testosterone · Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) · Estradiol

References: Testosterone Levels Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Panel

Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP)

Groups tests of blood sugar, minerals, proteins, and markers related to liver and kidney health.

Read the kidney testing guide →

Health topic
Kidney · Liver · Minerals
Collection
Kidney Function & Electrolytes

Read the BMP versus CMP: what is actually included? guide →

Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: CMP; chem 14; metabolic panel; CMP; chemistry panel; metabolic panel; Comprehensive metabolic panel; cmp comprehensive metabolic panel metabolic panel; Kidney Function & Electrolytes

Preparation: Fasting may be requested. Confirm the exact order’s instructions rather than using one fasting rule for all tests. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: A CMP has fourteen core measurements. It is not a complete nutritional, hormonal or cancer screening test.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Creatinine (blood and urine) · Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) · Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)

References: Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP); MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Calculated value or index

Estimated average glucose

Estimates average blood sugar from an A1c result. It is a calculation, not a separate blood draw.

Health topic
Blood sugar
Collection
Blood Sugar & Diabetes
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: eAG; estimated average blood sugar; eAG; average blood sugar; Estimated average glucose; ; Blood Sugar & Diabetes

Preparation: This is calculated from A1c, not a separate sample. Follow preparation for the A1c and other ordered tests. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: A long-term estimate, not today’s measured glucose; it inherits limitations of the A1c used.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Glucose (fasting and random) · Hemoglobin A1c · Insulin (including fasting insulin)

References: NIDDK: The A1C Test & Diabetes; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Fructosamine

Measures glucose attached to blood proteins, giving a shorter view of blood sugar than A1c.

Health topic
Blood sugar
Collection
Blood Sugar & Diabetes
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; short-term blood sugar; fructosamine; Fructosamine; Blood Sugar & Diabetes

Preparation: Confirm the laboratory’s instructions for this order. The cited catalog does not establish a universal fasting requirement. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: This is a shorter-term glucose marker than A1c. It measures glycated proteins and is not a direct blood-glucose measurement.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Glucose (fasting and random) · Hemoglobin A1c · Estimated average glucose

References: Mayo Clinic Laboratories: Fructosamine; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Glycated albumin

Measures glucose attached to albumin, a blood protein. It reflects a shorter period than A1c.

Health topic
Blood sugar
Collection
Blood Sugar & Diabetes
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; GA; glycated albumin; Glycated albumin; Blood Sugar & Diabetes

Preparation: Ask the performing laboratory about the exact specimen and preparation. A fasting rule is not established by the cited review abstract. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Albumin turnover can affect the result apart from glucose. The cited 2026 review abstract was inspected; inaccessible full text was not reviewed.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Glucose (fasting and random) · Hemoglobin A1c · Estimated average glucose

References: Research study: Glycated Albumin for the Diagnosis of Diabetes in US Adults; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Insulin autoantibodies

Looks for antibodies that target insulin. It is used in selected evaluations of autoimmune diabetes.

Health topic
Blood sugar
Collection
Blood Sugar & Diabetes
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; IAA; insulin antibodies; diabetes antibodies; Insulin autoantibodies; Blood Sugar & Diabetes

Preparation: Tell the ordering clinician about insulin treatment and recent procedures. Follow the performing laboratory’s collection instructions. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: This antibody test differs from measuring insulin itself. Insulin treatment can complicate interpretation; specialist context matters.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Glucose (fasting and random) · Hemoglobin A1c · Estimated average glucose

References: Mayo Clinic Laboratories: Insulin Autoantibodies; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Panel component / measurement

Total cholesterol

Measures the total amount of cholesterol in blood. It is one part of a cholesterol assessment.

Health topic
Cholesterol
Collection
Cholesterol & Heart Health
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; cholesterol; total cholesterol; Total cholesterol; Cholesterol & Heart Health

Preparation: Fasting may be requested. Confirm the exact order’s instructions rather than using one fasting rule for all tests. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: LDL cholesterol (calculated and direct) · HDL cholesterol · Triglycerides

References: Cholesterol Levels; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Measured or calculated component

LDL cholesterol (calculated and direct)

Reports LDL cholesterol. Some methods measure it directly; others calculate it from other blood results.

Health topic
Cholesterol
Collection
Cholesterol & Heart Health
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: LDL-C; bad cholesterol; direct LDL; LDL; LDL-C; bad cholesterol; direct LDL; LDL cholesterol; Direct LDL cholesterol; ; Cholesterol & Heart Health

Preparation: Fasting may be requested. Confirm the exact order’s instructions rather than using one fasting rule for all tests. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Calculated and directly measured LDL are different methods. Check which result the laboratory reports.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Total cholesterol · HDL cholesterol · Triglycerides

References: Cholesterol Levels; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Panel component / measurement

HDL cholesterol

Measures cholesterol carried by HDL particles. It is read alongside other heart-risk information.

Health topic
Cholesterol
Collection
Cholesterol & Heart Health
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: HDL-C; good cholesterol; HDL; HDL-C; good cholesterol; HDL cholesterol; ; Cholesterol & Heart Health

Preparation: Fasting may be requested. Confirm the exact order’s instructions rather than using one fasting rule for all tests. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Total cholesterol · LDL cholesterol (calculated and direct) · Triglycerides

References: Cholesterol Levels; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Panel component / measurement

Triglycerides

Measures triglycerides, a type of fat in blood. Recent food and other factors can affect the result.

Health topic
Cholesterol
Collection
Cholesterol & Heart Health
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; trigs; blood fats; triglyceride; Triglycerides; Cholesterol & Heart Health

Preparation: Fasting may be requested. Confirm the exact order’s instructions rather than using one fasting rule for all tests. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Total cholesterol · LDL cholesterol (calculated and direct) · HDL cholesterol

References: Triglycerides Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Calculated value or index

Non-HDL cholesterol

Subtracts HDL cholesterol from total cholesterol. It estimates cholesterol in particles other than HDL.

Health topic
Cholesterol
Collection
Cholesterol & Heart Health
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; non HDL; non-HDL-C; Non-HDL cholesterol; Cholesterol & Heart Health

Preparation: Fasting may be requested. Confirm the exact order’s instructions rather than using one fasting rule for all tests. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Non-HDL is total cholesterol minus HDL cholesterol. It is a calculation, not an additional blood draw.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Total cholesterol · LDL cholesterol (calculated and direct) · HDL cholesterol

References: Cholesterol Levels; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.; American Heart Association: non-HDL calculation

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Apolipoprotein B

Measures apolipoprotein B, a protein carried by LDL particles. It provides information different from LDL cholesterol alone.

Read the ApoB testing and cost guide →

Health topic
Cholesterol
Collection
Cholesterol & Heart Health
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ApoB; apo B; apolipoprotein B; ApoB; apo B; Apolipoprotein B; ; Cholesterol & Heart Health

Preparation: Confirm the performing laboratory’s preparation for this exact order, especially if it is bundled with other tests. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: ApoB protein and LDL cholesterol measure different features. The result is part of risk assessment, not a diagnosis by itself.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Total cholesterol · LDL cholesterol (calculated and direct) · HDL cholesterol

References: Mayo Clinic Laboratories: Apolipoprotein B; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Apolipoprotein A1

Measures a major protein in HDL particles. It differs from measuring the cholesterol carried by HDL.

Health topic
Cholesterol
Collection
Cholesterol & Heart Health
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; apo A1; ApoA-I; apolipoprotein A-I; Apolipoprotein A1; Cholesterol & Heart Health

Preparation: Confirm the performing laboratory’s preparation for this exact order, especially if it is bundled with other tests. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: ApoA1 is a protein measurement; it is not the same as HDL cholesterol or a direct HDL-particle count.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Total cholesterol · LDL cholesterol (calculated and direct) · HDL cholesterol

References: Mayo Clinic Laboratories: Apolipoprotein A1; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Lipoprotein(a)

Measures lipoprotein(a), a largely inherited cholesterol-carrying particle. It is not the same as LDL cholesterol.

Read the lipoprotein(a) testing and cost guide →

Health topic
Cholesterol
Collection
Cholesterol & Heart Health
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: Lp(a); lipoprotein little a; Lp(a); LPA; lipoprotein little a; Lipoprotein(a); ; Cholesterol & Heart Health

Preparation: Fasting may be requested. Confirm the exact order’s instructions rather than using one fasting rule for all tests. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: This is a separate marker, not ordinary LDL cholesterol. Check units and the laboratory method rather than converting them casually.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Total cholesterol · LDL cholesterol (calculated and direct) · HDL cholesterol

References: Lipoprotein (a) Blood Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

High-sensitivity C-reactive protein

Measures small amounts of C-reactive protein using a sensitive method. It may help assess cardiovascular risk in selected situations.

Compare CRP and hs-CRP →

Health topic
Cholesterol
Collection
Cholesterol & Heart Health
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; hsCRP; hs-CRP; cardiac CRP; High-sensitivity C-reactive protein; Cholesterol & Heart Health

Preparation: Tell your provider about medicines and supplements, and confirm any preparation for this exact order. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: High-sensitivity CRP and standard CRP measure the same protein for different purposes. Other inflammation can affect interpretation.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Total cholesterol · LDL cholesterol (calculated and direct) · HDL cholesterol

References: C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Method / workflow / grouped procedures

Lipoprotein fractionation

Examines lipoprotein particles or subgroups. Methods and the measurements reported differ among laboratories.

Health topic
Cholesterol
Collection
Cholesterol & Heart Health
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; particle testing; NMR; LDL particles; Lipoprotein fractionation; Cholesterol & Heart Health

Preparation: Specialized lipid methods have their own fasting and collection rules. Follow the exact order rather than assuming standard lipid-panel instructions apply. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Particle numbers, sizes and fractionation results depend on the method. Similar panel names do not guarantee equivalent results.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Total cholesterol · LDL cholesterol (calculated and direct) · HDL cholesterol

References: Mayo Clinic Laboratories: Lipoprotein Metabolism Profile; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Free T4

Measures T4 that is not attached to blood proteins. It helps assess thyroid hormone levels.

Read the thyroid testing guide →

Health topic
Thyroid
Collection
Thyroid
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: FT4; free thyroxine; FT4; free thyroxine; Free T4; ; Thyroid

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Free T4 excludes protein-bound T4; total T4 includes it. Medicines and binding-protein changes can affect interpretation.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) · Total T4 · Free T3

References: Thyroxine (T4) Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Total T4

Measures both protein-bound and unbound T4. Binding proteins can affect total T4 results.

Read the thyroid testing guide →

Health topic
Thyroid
Collection
Thyroid
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; thyroxine; T4 total; Total T4; Thyroid

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Total T4 includes protein-bound hormone; it is not interchangeable with free T4.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) · Free T4 · Free T3

References: Thyroxine (T4) Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Free T3

Measures T3 that is not attached to blood proteins. Its usefulness depends on the thyroid question.

Read the thyroid testing guide →

Health topic
Thyroid
Collection
Thyroid
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; FT3; free triiodothyronine; Free T3; Thyroid

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Free and total T3 differ. T3 testing is not a substitute for every TSH or T4 question.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) · Free T4 · Total T4

References: Triiodothyronine (T3) Tests; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Total T3

Measures protein-bound and unbound T3 together. It is one measurement used in selected thyroid evaluations.

Read the thyroid testing guide →

Health topic
Thyroid
Collection
Thyroid
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; T3 total; triiodothyronine; Total T3; Thyroid

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Total T3 includes protein-bound and free hormone. It differs from free T3.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) · Free T4 · Total T4

References: Triiodothyronine (T3) Tests; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Thyroid peroxidase antibodies

Looks for antibodies against thyroid peroxidase, an enzyme involved in making thyroid hormones.

Read the thyroid testing guide →

Health topic
Thyroid
Collection
Thyroid
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; TPO; TPOAb; anti-TPO; thyroid antibodies; Thyroid peroxidase antibodies; Thyroid

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: An antibody result is not a measurement of current thyroid-hormone production. Interpret it with other thyroid tests.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) · Free T4 · Total T4

References: Thyroid Antibody Tests; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Thyroglobulin antibodies

Looks for antibodies against thyroglobulin. These can matter in thyroid disease evaluation and interpretation of thyroglobulin results.

Read the thyroid testing guide →

Health topic
Thyroid
Collection
Thyroid
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; TgAb; anti-thyroglobulin; Thyroglobulin antibodies; Thyroid

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Thyroglobulin antibodies differ from the thyroglobulin protein test and can interfere with its interpretation.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) · Free T4 · Total T4

References: Thyroid Antibody Tests; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Thyroglobulin

Measures thyroglobulin, a protein made by thyroid cells. It is often used in specific thyroid cancer follow-up.

Read the thyroid testing guide →

Health topic
Thyroid
Collection
Thyroid
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; Tg; thyroid cancer marker; Thyroglobulin; Thyroid

Preparation: Usually no special preparation for this test alone; disclose medicines and supplements that may affect the assay. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: This is commonly used in selected thyroid-cancer follow-up, not as a stand-alone general cancer screen. Thyroglobulin antibodies can affect interpretation.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) · Free T4 · Total T4

References: Thyroglobulin; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

TSH receptor antibodies

Looks for antibodies that act on the TSH receptor. They may help assess autoimmune thyroid conditions.

Read the thyroid testing guide →

Health topic
Thyroid
Collection
Thyroid
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; TRAb; TBII; TSH receptor antibody; TSH receptor antibodies; Thyroid

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: TSH-receptor binding assays and stimulating-antibody assays do not always measure the same antibody effects. Check the method.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) · Free T4 · Total T4

References: Thyroid Antibody Tests; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.; Mayo: TSH receptor antibody method

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin

Looks for antibodies that stimulate the thyroid through the TSH receptor. It may help evaluate Graves disease.

Read the thyroid testing guide →

Health topic
Thyroid
Collection
Thyroid
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; TSI; thyroid stimulating antibody; Thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin; Thyroid

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: TSI targets stimulating activity associated with the TSH receptor; it is not a TSH concentration test. Results need clinical context.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) · Free T4 · Total T4

References: Thyroid Antibody Tests; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.; Mayo: thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Method / workflow / grouped procedures

TSH with reflex testing

Starts with TSH and adds other tests only when the laboratory’s rules call for them. Included tests and triggers vary.

Read the thyroid testing guide →

Health topic
Thyroid
Collection
Thyroid

Read the TSH versus TSH with reflex testing guide →

Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: TSH reflex FT4; thyroid reflex; TSH reflex FT4; thyroid reflex; reflex cascade; TSH with reflex testing; ; Thyroid

Preparation: Confirm the initial test, reflex rules and preparation for any tests that might be added. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: A reflex order adds tests only under its stated rules. It does not promise every thyroid hormone or antibody test.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) · Free T4 · Total T4

References: Mayo Clinic Laboratories: Thyroid Function Cascade; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP)

Measures ALP, an enzyme found in several tissues, including liver and bone.

Read the liver testing guide →

Health topic
Liver
Collection
Liver
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; ALP; alk phos; Alkaline phosphatase (ALP); Liver

Preparation: Fasting may be requested. Confirm the exact order’s instructions rather than using one fasting rule for all tests. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: ALP can come from bone or liver. Additional information may be needed to identify the source.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) · Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) · Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT)

References: Alkaline Phosphatase; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT)

Measures GGT, an enzyme used with other information when assessing liver or bile-duct concerns.

Read the liver testing guide →

Health topic
Liver
Collection
Liver
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; GGT; gamma GT; Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT); Liver

Preparation: Fasting may be requested. Confirm the exact order’s instructions rather than using one fasting rule for all tests. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: GGT can help interpret other liver-related results but does not identify a specific cause alone.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) · Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) · Alkaline phosphatase (ALP)

References: Gamma-glutamyl Transferase (GGT) Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Panel component / measurement

Total bilirubin

Measures total bilirubin, a substance made as red blood cells break down. It includes different bilirubin forms.

Read the liver testing guide →

Health topic
Liver
Collection
Liver
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; bilirubin; jaundice test; Total bilirubin; Liver

Preparation: Fasting may be requested. Confirm the exact order’s instructions rather than using one fasting rule for all tests. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Total and direct bilirubin are different results. Medicines and other factors can affect the level.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) · Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) · Alkaline phosphatase (ALP)

References: Bilirubin Blood Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Panel component / measurement

Direct bilirubin

Measures the direct form of bilirubin. Comparing bilirubin forms can help guide further evaluation.

Read the liver testing guide →

Health topic
Liver
Collection
Liver
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; conjugated bilirubin; direct bilirubin; Direct bilirubin; Liver

Preparation: Fasting may be requested. Confirm the exact order’s instructions rather than using one fasting rule for all tests. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Direct bilirubin is one part of total bilirubin; it is not an interchangeable name for the total test.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) · Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) · Alkaline phosphatase (ALP)

References: Bilirubin Blood Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Panel component / measurement

Albumin

Measures albumin, a protein made by the liver. Its level can change for several reasons.

Read the liver testing guide →

Health topic
Liver
Collection
Liver
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; serum albumin; blood albumin; Albumin; Liver

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) · Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) · Alkaline phosphatase (ALP)

References: Albumin Blood Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Panel component / measurement

Total protein

Measures major proteins in blood, mainly albumin and globulins. It does not identify each protein separately.

Read the liver testing guide →

Health topic
Liver
Collection
Liver
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; serum protein; total blood protein; Total protein; Liver

Preparation: Fasting may be requested. Confirm the exact order’s instructions rather than using one fasting rule for all tests. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) · Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) · Alkaline phosphatase (ALP)

References: Total Protein and Albumin/Globulin (A/G) Ratio; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Panel (multiple measurements)

Liver function/hepatic panel

Groups liver-related measurements such as enzymes, proteins and bilirubin. The exact component list matters.

Read the liver testing guide →

Health topic
Liver
Collection
Liver
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; hepatic function panel; liver panel; LFT; Liver function/hepatic panel; Liver

Preparation: Fasting may be requested. Confirm the exact order’s instructions rather than using one fasting rule for all tests. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Some liver-panel results reflect cell injury, while others relate to protein production or bile processing. Check the component list.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) · Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) · Alkaline phosphatase (ALP)

References: Liver Function Tests; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)

Measures LDH, an enzyme found in many tissues. An abnormal result is not specific to one organ.

Read the liver testing guide →

Health topic
Liver
Collection
Liver
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; LDH; LD; lactate dehydrogenase; Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH); Liver

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: LDH is found in many tissues. An abnormal result does not identify one damaged organ.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) · Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) · Alkaline phosphatase (ALP)

References: Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Panel component / measurement

Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)

Measures nitrogen from urea, a waste product carried in blood. Kidney function and other factors affect it.

Read the kidney testing guide →

Health topic
Kidney
Collection
Kidney Function & Electrolytes
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; BUN; urea nitrogen; Blood urea nitrogen (BUN); Kidney Function & Electrolytes

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Diet, hydration and other conditions can affect BUN as well as kidney function.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Creatinine (blood and urine) · Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) · Cystatin C

References: BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen); MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Cystatin C

Measures cystatin C, a protein that can be used to estimate kidney filtering, sometimes with creatinine.

Read the kidney testing guide →

Health topic
Kidney
Collection
Kidney Function & Electrolytes
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; cystatin; alternative kidney marker; Cystatin C; Kidney Function & Electrolytes

Preparation: Follow the laboratory’s specimen instructions. This protein can be used in an eGFR calculation, but the protein result and calculation are different. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Cystatin C is a measured protein; an eGFR using it is a separate calculation.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Creatinine (blood and urine) · Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) · Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)

References: Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) and GFR Tests; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Panel component / measurement

Sodium

Measures sodium, a blood electrolyte involved in fluid balance and nerve and muscle function.

Read the kidney testing guide →

Health topic
Kidney
Collection
Kidney Function & Electrolytes
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; Na; blood sodium; Sodium; Kidney Function & Electrolytes

Preparation: Fasting may be requested. Confirm the exact order’s instructions rather than using one fasting rule for all tests. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Creatinine (blood and urine) · Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) · Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)

References: Sodium Blood Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Panel component / measurement

Potassium

Measures potassium, an electrolyte needed by nerves, muscles and the heart.

Read the kidney testing guide →

Health topic
Kidney
Collection
Kidney Function & Electrolytes
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; K; blood potassium; Potassium; Kidney Function & Electrolytes

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Creatinine (blood and urine) · Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) · Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)

References: Potassium Blood Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Panel component / measurement

Chloride

Measures chloride, an electrolyte involved in fluid and acid-base balance.

Read the kidney testing guide →

Health topic
Kidney
Collection
Kidney Function & Electrolytes
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; Cl; blood chloride; Chloride; Kidney Function & Electrolytes

Preparation: Fasting may be requested. Confirm the exact order’s instructions rather than using one fasting rule for all tests. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Creatinine (blood and urine) · Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) · Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)

References: Chloride Blood Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Panel component / measurement

Carbon dioxide/bicarbonate

Usually measures blood carbon dioxide, largely in bicarbonate form, to help assess acid-base balance.

Read the kidney testing guide →

Health topic
Kidney
Collection
Kidney Function & Electrolytes
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; CO2; bicarbonate; HCO3; Carbon dioxide/bicarbonate; Kidney Function & Electrolytes

Preparation: Fasting may be requested. Confirm the exact order’s instructions rather than using one fasting rule for all tests. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Routine total CO2 mostly reflects bicarbonate. It is not the same test as blood-gas carbon dioxide pressure.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Creatinine (blood and urine) · Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) · Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)

References: Carbon Dioxide (CO2) in Blood; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Panel component / measurement

Calcium

Measures calcium in blood. Total calcium differs from a test of ionized calcium.

Health topic
Minerals
Collection
Kidney Function & Electrolytes
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; Ca; blood calcium; Calcium; Kidney Function & Electrolytes

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Total calcium and ionized calcium are different tests. A blood calcium value does not directly measure bone strength.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Creatinine (blood and urine) · Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) · Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)

References: Calcium Blood Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Panel component / measurement

Phosphorus/phosphate

Measures phosphate in blood, often labeled phosphorus. It is related to bone, energy and mineral balance.

Health topic
Minerals
Collection
Kidney Function & Electrolytes
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; phosphorus; phosphate; PO4; Phosphorus/phosphate; Kidney Function & Electrolytes

Preparation: Fasting may be requested. Confirm the exact order’s instructions rather than using one fasting rule for all tests. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Creatinine (blood and urine) · Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) · Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)

References: Phosphate in Blood; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Panel (multiple measurements)

Basic metabolic panel

Groups glucose, kidney markers and electrolytes. A BMP is smaller than a comprehensive metabolic panel.

Read the kidney testing guide →

Health topic
Kidney
Collection
Kidney Function & Electrolytes

Read the BMP versus CMP: what is actually included? guide →

Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: BMP; chem 8; BMP; basic chemistry panel; Basic metabolic panel; ; Kidney Function & Electrolytes

Preparation: Fasting may be requested. Confirm the exact order’s instructions rather than using one fasting rule for all tests. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: A BMP has eight core measurements; check the actual order. It does not include the liver/protein additions in a CMP.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Creatinine (blood and urine) · Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) · Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)

References: Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP); MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Calculated ratio of urine measurements

Urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio

Compares urine albumin with urine creatinine to help assess albumin leakage while accounting for urine concentration.

Read the kidney testing guide →

Health topic
Kidney
Collection
Kidney Function & Electrolytes
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: uACR; ACR; microalbumin creatinine ratio; uACR; UACR; microalbumin ratio; urine protein; Urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio; ; Kidney Function & Electrolytes

Preparation: Follow the urine collection instructions. Ask about recent strenuous exercise, illness, medicines and any diet instructions. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: This is a ratio calculated from two urine measurements. Exercise or illness can cause temporary changes; an abnormal result may need confirmation.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Creatinine (blood and urine) · Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) · Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)

References: Microalbumin Creatinine Ratio; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Panel component / measurement

Red blood cell count

Counts red blood cells, which carry oxygen. It is commonly part of a CBC.

Health topic
Blood counts
Collection
Blood Counts & Anemia
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; RBC; red cells; Red blood cell count; Blood Counts & Anemia

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Complete blood count (CBC) · White blood cell count · Hemoglobin

References: Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Panel component / measurement

White blood cell count

Counts white blood cells, which help defend against infection. A total count does not identify every cell type.

Health topic
Blood counts
Collection
Blood Counts & Anemia
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; WBC; white cells; White blood cell count; Blood Counts & Anemia

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Complete blood count (CBC) · Red blood cell count · Hemoglobin

References: White Blood Count (WBC); MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Panel component / measurement

Hemoglobin

Measures hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells. It differs from A1c.

Health topic
Blood counts
Collection
Blood Counts & Anemia
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; Hgb; Hb; blood hemoglobin; Hemoglobin; Blood Counts & Anemia

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Hemoglobin concentration is not the same as hemoglobin A1c, which concerns glucose attached to hemoglobin.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Complete blood count (CBC) · Red blood cell count · White blood cell count

References: Hemoglobin Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Panel component / measurement

Hematocrit

Measures the share of blood volume made up of red blood cells.

Health topic
Blood counts
Collection
Blood Counts & Anemia
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; Hct; packed cell volume; PCV; Hematocrit; Blood Counts & Anemia

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Complete blood count (CBC) · Red blood cell count · White blood cell count

References: Hematocrit Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Panel component / measurement

Platelet count

Counts platelets, which help blood clot. A count differs from testing how platelets work.

Health topic
Blood counts
Collection
Blood Counts & Anemia
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; PLT; platelets; Platelet count; Blood Counts & Anemia

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: A platelet count and a platelet-function test answer different questions.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Complete blood count (CBC) · Red blood cell count · White blood cell count

References: Platelet Tests; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Red-cell size index

Mean corpuscular volume (MCV)

Reports the average size of red blood cells. It is usually part of a CBC.

Health topic
Blood counts
Collection
Blood Counts & Anemia
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; MCV; red cell size; Mean corpuscular volume (MCV); Blood Counts & Anemia

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: MCV is a red-cell size index, not a test for iron stores.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Complete blood count (CBC) · Red blood cell count · White blood cell count

References: MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume); MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Calculated value or index

Mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH)

Reports the average amount of hemoglobin per red blood cell. It is one of several red-cell indices.

Health topic
Blood counts
Collection
Blood Counts & Anemia
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; MCH; red cell indices; Mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH); Blood Counts & Anemia

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: MCH describes hemoglobin amount per cell. It differs from hemoglobin concentration and MCHC.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Complete blood count (CBC) · Red blood cell count · White blood cell count

References: Red Blood Cell (RBC) Indices; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Calculated value or index

Mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC)

Reports the average concentration of hemoglobin in red blood cells. It is one red-cell index.

Health topic
Blood counts
Collection
Blood Counts & Anemia
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; MCHC; red cell indices; Mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC); Blood Counts & Anemia

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: MCHC describes concentration inside red cells. It differs from the amount per cell (MCH).

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Complete blood count (CBC) · Red blood cell count · White blood cell count

References: Red Blood Cell (RBC) Indices; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Calculated value or index

Red cell distribution width (RDW)

Describes how much red blood cell size varies. It is read with the other blood-count measurements.

Health topic
Blood counts
Collection
Blood Counts & Anemia
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; RDW; red cell size variation; Red cell distribution width (RDW); Blood Counts & Anemia

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: RDW describes variation in red-cell size. It needs the other CBC results and clinical context.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Complete blood count (CBC) · Red blood cell count · White blood cell count

References: RDW (Red Cell Distribution Width); MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Reticulocyte count

Counts young red blood cells to help assess how the bone marrow is responding.

Health topic
Blood counts
Collection
Blood Counts & Anemia
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; retics; reticulocytes; Reticulocyte count; Blood Counts & Anemia

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Reticulocytes are young red cells. Their count differs from the total red-cell count.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Complete blood count (CBC) · Red blood cell count · White blood cell count

References: Reticulocyte Count; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Method / workflow / grouped procedures

White blood cell differential

Reports types of white blood cells, often as percentages and counts. It may be added to a CBC.

Health topic
Blood counts
Collection
Blood Counts & Anemia
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; CBC differential; diff; neutrophils; lymphocytes; White blood cell differential; Blood Counts & Anemia

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: A differential reports white-cell types. It differs from the total white-cell count alone.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Complete blood count (CBC) · Red blood cell count · White blood cell count

References: Blood Differential; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Method / workflow / grouped procedures

Peripheral blood smear

Examines blood cells under a microscope. It can describe features that an automated count alone may miss.

Health topic
Blood counts
Collection
Blood Counts & Anemia
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; blood film; blood smear; Peripheral blood smear; Blood Counts & Anemia

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Microscope review and an automated CBC are related but different procedures.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Complete blood count (CBC) · Red blood cell count · White blood cell count

References: Blood Smear; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Serum iron

Measures iron circulating in blood. It does not measure the body’s stored iron by itself.

Health topic
Minerals
Collection
Iron, Vitamins & Nutrients
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; iron total; total iron; serum iron; Serum iron; Iron, Vitamins & Nutrients

Preparation: Morning collection and fasting may be requested. Confirm the actual order and any supplement instructions. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Serum iron does not establish stored iron by itself and varies with collection context.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Ferritin · Iron panel · Transferrin

References: Iron Tests; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Compare five iron-testing offerings: included and missing measurements, prices and fees →

Binding-capacity result (method dependent)

Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC)

Describes how much iron blood proteins can bind. It is often reported with serum iron.

Health topic
Minerals
Collection
Iron, Vitamins & Nutrients
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; TIBC; iron binding capacity; Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC); Iron, Vitamins & Nutrients

Preparation: Confirm the laboratory method, collection time and whether fasting is requested for the full order. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: TIBC, unsaturated binding capacity (UIBC), and a separately measured transferrin concentration are different results. Method and included calculations matter.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Serum iron · Transferrin · Iron panel

References: Iron Tests; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.; Quest: iron/TIBC components and calculated saturation

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Compare five iron-testing offerings: included and missing measurements, prices and fees →

Individual measured test

Transferrin

Measures transferrin, a protein that carries iron. Some laboratory methods use it to calculate binding capacity.

Health topic
Minerals
Collection
Iron, Vitamins & Nutrients
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; iron transport protein; transferrin; Transferrin; Iron, Vitamins & Nutrients

Preparation: Confirm the exact order’s collection and fasting instructions, especially when other iron tests are included. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Transferrin is a protein measurement. TIBC is a binding-capacity result and may be derived from other measurements.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Serum iron · Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) · Iron panel

References: Iron Tests; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.; Mayo: transferrin-based binding-capacity method

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Calculated value or index

Transferrin saturation

Reports how much iron-carrying capacity is occupied. It is commonly calculated from iron and binding measurements.

Health topic
Minerals
Collection
Iron, Vitamins & Nutrients
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; TSAT; iron saturation; percent saturation; Transferrin saturation; Iron, Vitamins & Nutrients

Preparation: Preparation follows the iron and binding measurements used for the calculation. Confirm the complete order. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Saturation is calculated from iron and binding-capacity results. It is not another independently measured iron store.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Ferritin · Serum iron · Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC)

References: Iron Tests; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.; Quest: calculated saturation in exact panel

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Compare five iron-testing offerings: included and missing measurements, prices and fees →

Panel (multiple measurements)

Iron panel

Groups iron-related measurements. The name does not guarantee that ferritin, transferrin or every binding measurement is included.

Health topic
Minerals
Collection
Iron, Vitamins & Nutrients

Read the Iron panel guide →

Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: iron panel; iron and TIBC; iron studies; iron studies; iron profile; iron and TIBC; Iron panel; ; Iron, Vitamins & Nutrients

Preparation: Preparation depends on the components. The linked comparison records the instructions for five specific offerings. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Panel contents vary. Ferritin, a CBC, B12 and folate must not be presumed included.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Ferritin · Serum iron · Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC)

References: Iron Tests; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Compare five iron-testing offerings: included and missing measurements, prices and fees →

Individual measured test

Folate

Measures folate, a B vitamin. Blood sample type and the exact test affect what is measured.

Health topic
Vitamins
Collection
Iron, Vitamins & Nutrients
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; vitamin B9; folic acid; folate; Folate; Iron, Vitamins & Nutrients

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Serum and red-cell folate orders use different samples. Check exactly what the order measures.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Ferritin · Serum iron · Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC)

References: Vitamin B Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.; MedlinePlus: folate blood test; MedlinePlus: folate-deficiency anemia and red-cell folate

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Methylmalonic acid

Measures methylmalonic acid. It can help assess possible B12 deficiency when interpreted with kidney function and other information.

Health topic
Vitamins
Collection
Iron, Vitamins & Nutrients
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; MMA; B12 follow-up; Methylmalonic acid; Iron, Vitamins & Nutrients

Preparation: Fasting may be requested. Confirm the exact order’s instructions rather than using one fasting rule for all tests. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: MMA can rise with impaired kidney function as well as B12-related problems. It is not interpreted alone.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Ferritin · Serum iron · Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC)

References: Methylmalonic Acid (MMA) Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.; Mayo: MMA and kidney-function limitations

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Homocysteine

Measures homocysteine, an amino acid. Several vitamin and health factors can affect the level.

Health topic
Vitamins
Collection
Iron, Vitamins & Nutrients
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; Hcy; homocysteine; Homocysteine; Iron, Vitamins & Nutrients

Preparation: Fasting may be requested. Confirm the exact order’s instructions rather than using one fasting rule for all tests. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Several vitamin and medical conditions affect homocysteine; it does not identify a single deficiency.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Ferritin · Serum iron · Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC)

References: Homocysteine Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

25-hydroxy vitamin D

Measures 25-hydroxy vitamin D, the form commonly used to assess vitamin D status. It differs from active vitamin D.

Health topic
Vitamins
Collection
Iron, Vitamins & Nutrients

Read the Vitamin D tests: 25-hydroxy versus 1,25-dihydroxy guide →

Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: 25 OH D; 25-hydroxyvitamin D; 25-OH D; 25OH vitamin D; calcidiol; 25-hydroxy vitamin D; ; Iron, Vitamins & Nutrients

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: 25-hydroxy vitamin D is different from active 1,25-dihydroxy vitamin D. These are not interchangeable orders.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Ferritin · Serum iron · Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC)

References: Vitamin D Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Vitamin B6

Measures vitamin B6 status using the laboratory’s selected method. Supplements can affect testing.

Health topic
Vitamins
Collection
Iron, Vitamins & Nutrients
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; pyridoxine; PLP; B6; Vitamin B6; Iron, Vitamins & Nutrients

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Check which B6 form and specimen the laboratory measures. A B6 result does not measure all B vitamins.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Ferritin · Serum iron · Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC)

References: Vitamin B Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Vitamin B1

Measures vitamin B1 status using the selected specimen and method. It is not interchangeable with every B-vitamin test.

Health topic
Vitamins
Collection
Iron, Vitamins & Nutrients
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; thiamine; thiamin; B1; Vitamin B1; Iron, Vitamins & Nutrients

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Check the B1 specimen and method. A B1 test does not measure all B vitamins.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Ferritin · Serum iron · Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC)

References: Vitamin B Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Zinc

Measures zinc in the selected sample. The specimen and recent intake can matter when interpreting it.

Health topic
Minerals
Collection
Iron, Vitamins & Nutrients
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; serum zinc; Zn; Zinc; Iron, Vitamins & Nutrients

Preparation: Use the laboratory’s trace-metal collection procedure. Tell the laboratory about recent contrast imaging and supplements; method-specific delays may apply. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Trace-metal collection and specimen contamination matter. A serum zinc test is not a direct inventory of all body zinc.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Ferritin · Serum iron · Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC)

References: Mayo Clinic Laboratories: Zinc, Serum; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Copper

Measures copper in the selected sample. It is often read with other tests in specific evaluations.

Health topic
Minerals
Collection
Iron, Vitamins & Nutrients
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; serum copper; Cu; Copper; Iron, Vitamins & Nutrients

Preparation: Use the laboratory’s trace-metal collection procedure. Tell the laboratory about recent contrast imaging and supplements; method-specific delays may apply. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Copper is often interpreted with other tests. Sample type and method must match the clinical question.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Ferritin · Serum iron · Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC)

References: Mayo Clinic Laboratories: Copper, Serum; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Measured or calculated hormone result

Free testosterone

Assesses testosterone not bound to proteins. It may be measured or calculated; methods are not interchangeable.

Read the testosterone testing guide →

Health topic
Hormones
Collection
Hormones & Reproductive Health
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; free T; unbound testosterone; Free testosterone; Hormones & Reproductive Health

Preparation: Ask which assay or calculation is being used, when to collect the sample and whether fasting is requested. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Direct free-testosterone assays and calculated estimates depend on method and inputs. They are not simply another name for total testosterone.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Total testosterone · Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) · Estradiol

References: Testosterone Levels Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.; Mayo: free testosterone methods

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG)

Measures a protein that binds sex hormones. It can help explain differences between total and free hormone results.

Read the testosterone testing guide →

Health topic
Hormones
Collection
Hormones & Reproductive Health
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; SHBG; sex hormone binding globulin; Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG); Hormones & Reproductive Health

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: SHBG is a binding protein, not a direct measurement of testosterone or estrogen.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Total testosterone · Free testosterone · Estradiol

References: SHBG Blood Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Estradiol

Measures estradiol, one type of estrogen. Levels vary with age, treatment and reproductive stage.

Health topic
Hormones
Collection
Hormones & Reproductive Health
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; E2; estrogen; oestradiol; Estradiol; Hormones & Reproductive Health

Preparation: Ask whether menstrual-cycle timing matters for the reason for testing. Disclose hormone medicines and supplements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Estradiol is one estrogen. It is not a measurement of every estrogen, and levels vary with clinical context.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Total testosterone · Free testosterone · Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG)

References: Estrogen Levels Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Progesterone

Measures progesterone. Cycle timing and the reason for testing affect interpretation.

Health topic
Hormones
Collection
Hormones & Reproductive Health
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; progesterone level; P4; Progesterone; Hormones & Reproductive Health

Preparation: Cycle timing matters when evaluating ovulation. Confirm the collection day for your individual order. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: A progesterone result depends on cycle timing and the reason for testing.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Total testosterone · Free testosterone · Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG)

References: Progesterone Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)

Measures follicle-stimulating hormone, involved in reproductive function. Its meaning depends on the clinical context.

Health topic
Hormones
Collection
Hormones & Reproductive Health
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; FSH; follicle stimulating hormone; Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH); Hormones & Reproductive Health

Preparation: Testing may need to occur on a particular day of the menstrual cycle. Confirm the timing. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: FSH varies with reproductive stage and cycle timing. A value alone does not determine fertility.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Total testosterone · Free testosterone · Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG)

References: Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Levels Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Luteinizing hormone (LH)

Measures luteinizing hormone, involved in ovulation and sex-hormone production.

Health topic
Hormones
Collection
Hormones & Reproductive Health
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; LH; luteinising hormone; Luteinizing hormone (LH); Hormones & Reproductive Health

Preparation: Confirm cycle timing and any medicine instructions with the ordering clinician. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: LH varies with cycle timing and reproductive stage; it is interpreted with related hormones.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Total testosterone · Free testosterone · Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG)

References: Luteinizing Hormone (LH) Levels Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Prolactin

Measures prolactin, a pituitary hormone involved in milk production and other reproductive functions.

Health topic
Hormones
Collection
Hormones & Reproductive Health
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; PRL; prolactin level; Prolactin; Hormones & Reproductive Health

Preparation: Collection time, recent sleep and fasting instructions may matter. Follow the exact appointment instructions. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Sleep, stress and other factors can affect prolactin. A result alone does not identify a cause.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Total testosterone · Free testosterone · Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG)

References: Prolactin Levels; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S)

Measures DHEA sulfate, a hormone made mainly by the adrenal glands.

Health topic
Hormones
Collection
Hormones & Reproductive Health
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; DHEAS; DHEA-S; adrenal androgen; Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S); Hormones & Reproductive Health

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Total testosterone · Free testosterone · Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG)

References: DHEA Sulfate Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Cortisol

Measures cortisol, an adrenal hormone. Sample type and collection time are important.

Health topic
Hormones
Collection
Hormones & Reproductive Health
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; stress hormone; AM cortisol; PM cortisol; Cortisol; Hormones & Reproductive Health

Preparation: Blood, urine and saliva cortisol orders have different collection rules. Follow the specified times and sample instructions. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Collection time and sample type matter. A single random cortisol value does not answer every adrenal question.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Total testosterone · Free testosterone · Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG)

References: Cortisol Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)

Measures a pituitary hormone that signals the adrenal glands to release cortisol.

Health topic
Hormones
Collection
Hormones & Reproductive Health
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; ACTH; adrenocorticotropic hormone; Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH); Hormones & Reproductive Health

Preparation: Morning sampling and fasting may be requested. Follow exact collection and handling instructions. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: ACTH and cortisol are different hormones and are often considered together. Handling requirements matter.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Total testosterone · Free testosterone · Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG)

References: Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH); MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH)

Measures anti-Müllerian hormone. It can help answer selected reproductive questions but cannot predict an individual’s chance of pregnancy alone.

Health topic
Hormones
Collection
Hormones & Reproductive Health
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; AMH; anti mullerian hormone; Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH); Hormones & Reproductive Health

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: AMH cannot predict an individual’s chance of pregnancy or egg quality on its own.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Total testosterone · Free testosterone · Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG)

References: Anti-Müllerian Hormone Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)

Measures hCG, a hormone often checked in pregnancy testing. Qualitative and quantitative tests report different information.

Health topic
Hormones
Collection
Hormones & Reproductive Health
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; hCG; beta hCG; pregnancy blood test; Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG); Hormones & Reproductive Health

Preparation: Blood and urine orders differ. For urine testing, follow kit instructions and avoid diluting the sample by drinking excessive fluid. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Qualitative hCG reports detection; quantitative hCG reports an amount. Early testing and sample type can affect detection.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Total testosterone · Free testosterone · Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG)

References: Pregnancy Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

17-hydroxyprogesterone

Measures 17-hydroxyprogesterone, a hormone-related substance used in selected adrenal evaluations.

Health topic
Hormones
Collection
Hormones & Reproductive Health
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; 17-OHP; 17OH progesterone; 17-hydroxyprogesterone; Hormones & Reproductive Health

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: 17-hydroxyprogesterone is not interchangeable with ordinary progesterone.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Total testosterone · Free testosterone · Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG)

References: 17-Hydroxyprogesterone Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

C-reactive protein (CRP)

Measures C-reactive protein, which can rise with inflammation. It does not show the cause or location on its own.

Compare CRP and hs-CRP →

Health topic
Other topics
Collection
Inflammation & Immune System
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; CRP; inflammation marker; C-reactive protein (CRP); Inflammation & Immune System

Preparation: Tell your provider about medicines and supplements, and confirm any preparation for this exact order. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: CRP indicates inflammation but does not identify its location or cause.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) · Rheumatoid factor · Anti-CCP antibodies

References: C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)

Measures how quickly red blood cells settle in a tube. It is a nonspecific sign used in inflammation assessment.

Health topic
Other topics
Collection
Inflammation & Immune System
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; ESR; sed rate; Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR); Inflammation & Immune System

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: ESR is nonspecific; an abnormal value does not identify a particular disease.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: C-reactive protein (CRP) · Rheumatoid factor · Anti-CCP antibodies

References: Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR); MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Rheumatoid factor

Looks for rheumatoid factor antibodies. A result alone does not diagnose rheumatoid arthritis.

Health topic
Other topics
Collection
Inflammation & Immune System
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; RF; rheumatoid factor; Rheumatoid factor; Inflammation & Immune System

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: RF can occur in several conditions and sometimes without rheumatoid arthritis. It does not diagnose it alone.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: C-reactive protein (CRP) · Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) · Anti-CCP antibodies

References: Rheumatoid Factor (RF) Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Anti-CCP antibodies

Looks for antibodies against cyclic citrullinated peptides. It may help assess possible rheumatoid arthritis.

Health topic
Other topics
Collection
Inflammation & Immune System
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; anti CCP; CCP; ACPA; Anti-CCP antibodies; Inflammation & Immune System

Preparation: Tell your provider about medicines and supplements, and confirm any preparation for this exact order. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Anti-CCP is interpreted with symptoms and other findings; an antibody result alone is not a diagnosis.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: C-reactive protein (CRP) · Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) · Rheumatoid factor

References: CCP Antibody Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Method / workflow / grouped procedures

Antinuclear antibodies (ANA), including reflex testing

Looks for antibodies that react with cell nuclei. Reflex orders may add tests depending on laboratory rules.

Health topic
Other topics
Collection
Inflammation & Immune System
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ANA; ANA reflex; ANA; antinuclear antibody; ANA reflex; Antinuclear antibodies (ANA); ANA reflex testing; ; Inflammation & Immune System

Preparation: Tell your provider about medicines and supplements, and confirm any preparation for this exact order. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: ANA positivity alone does not diagnose an autoimmune disease. Reflex contents and triggers depend on the laboratory.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: C-reactive protein (CRP) · Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) · Rheumatoid factor

References: ANA (Antinuclear Antibody) Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Complement C3

Measures C3, one protein in the complement immune system. It may be used with other immune tests.

Health topic
Other topics
Collection
Inflammation & Immune System
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; C3; complement3; Complement C3; Inflammation & Immune System

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: C3 and C4 are different proteins; neither alone measures every part of complement function.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: C-reactive protein (CRP) · Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) · Rheumatoid factor

References: Complement Blood Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Complement C4

Measures C4, a complement immune-system protein. It is not the same measurement as C3.

Health topic
Other topics
Collection
Inflammation & Immune System
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; C4; complement4; Complement C4; Inflammation & Immune System

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: C4 is not interchangeable with C3 or an overall complement-activity test.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: C-reactive protein (CRP) · Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) · Rheumatoid factor

References: Complement Blood Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Immunoglobulin G (IgG)

Measures the amount of immunoglobulin G, a major antibody class. It does not identify every specific infection.

Health topic
Other topics
Collection
Inflammation & Immune System
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; IgG; total IgG; Immunoglobulin G (IgG); Inflammation & Immune System

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Total IgG concentration differs from antibodies directed against a particular infection.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: C-reactive protein (CRP) · Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) · Rheumatoid factor

References: Immunoglobulins Blood Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Immunoglobulin A (IgA), including celiac evaluation

Measures immunoglobulin A, an antibody class. Total IgA can help interpret selected celiac antibody tests.

Health topic
Other topics
Collection
Inflammation & Immune System
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: total IgA; immunoglobulin A; IgA; total IgA; celiac IgA; Immunoglobulin A (IgA); Total IgA for celiac evaluation; ; Inflammation & Immune System

Preparation: Total IgA itself does not require a gluten challenge. If celiac antibody testing is also ordered, ask about diet instructions before changing gluten intake. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Total IgA is not a celiac-specific antibody result. It can help interpret tTG-IgA when IgA deficiency is a concern.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: C-reactive protein (CRP) · Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) · Rheumatoid factor

References: Immunoglobulins Blood Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.; NIDDK: total IgA and celiac antibody testing

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Immunoglobulin M (IgM)

Measures the amount of immunoglobulin M, an antibody class. Total IgM differs from infection-specific IgM testing.

Health topic
Other topics
Collection
Inflammation & Immune System
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; IgM; total IgM; Immunoglobulin M (IgM); Inflammation & Immune System

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Total IgM concentration differs from an infection-specific IgM antibody test.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: C-reactive protein (CRP) · Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) · Rheumatoid factor

References: Immunoglobulins Blood Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Lipase

Measures lipase, an enzyme involved in fat digestion. Blood testing may help evaluate pancreatic problems.

Health topic
Other topics
Collection
Digestive Health & Pancreas
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; pancreas enzyme; lipase; Lipase; Digestive Health & Pancreas

Preparation: Fasting may be requested. Confirm the exact order’s instructions rather than using one fasting rule for all tests. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Lipase is not specific to every pancreatic disorder, and results need symptoms and other information.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Amylase · Tissue transglutaminase IgA · Celiac disease antibody panel

References: Lipase Tests; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Amylase

Measures amylase, an enzyme that helps break down starch. It is made by the pancreas and other tissues.

Health topic
Other topics
Collection
Digestive Health & Pancreas
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; pancreatic enzyme; amylase; Amylase; Digestive Health & Pancreas

Preparation: Fasting may be requested. Confirm the exact order’s instructions rather than using one fasting rule for all tests. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Amylase may come from the pancreas or salivary glands. It does not identify one cause alone.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Lipase · Tissue transglutaminase IgA · Celiac disease antibody panel

References: Amylase Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Tissue transglutaminase IgA

Looks for IgA antibodies against tissue transglutaminase. It is used in celiac disease evaluation.

Health topic
Other topics
Collection
Digestive Health & Pancreas
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; tTG-IgA; TTG; celiac antibody; Tissue transglutaminase IgA; Digestive Health & Pancreas

Preparation: Diagnostic celiac testing usually requires ongoing gluten intake. Discuss diet with your clinician before changing it; do not start a gluten challenge on website advice. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Low total IgA can affect tTG-IgA interpretation. This is not the same as a total IgA test or a food-allergy test.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Lipase · Amylase · Celiac disease antibody panel

References: Celiac Disease Screening; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.; NIDDK: tTG-IgA, IgA deficiency and gluten intake

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Panel (multiple measurements)

Celiac disease antibody panel

Groups antibodies used to evaluate celiac disease. Components and reflex rules differ among panels.

Health topic
Other topics
Collection
Digestive Health & Pancreas
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; celiac panel; coeliac screen; gluten antibodies; Celiac disease antibody panel; Digestive Health & Pancreas

Preparation: Confirm the panel contents, IgA assessment and any reflex tests. Discuss gluten intake with your clinician before changing your diet. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Panel contents and reflex rules vary. A negative result does not always exclude celiac disease.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Lipase · Amylase · Tissue transglutaminase IgA

References: Celiac Disease Screening; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.; NIDDK: variable celiac panels and reflex testing

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Method / workflow / grouped procedures

H. pylori testing: antibodies, breath, and stool methods

Uses selected antibody, breath or stool methods to assess H. pylori. Antibodies alone may reflect a past infection.

Health topic
Other topics
Collection
Digestive Health & Pancreas
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; Helicobacter pylori; H pylori; stomach bacteria; Helicobacter pylori antibody testing; Digestive Health & Pancreas

Preparation: Breath, stool and antibody methods have different rules. Ask about acid-suppressing medicines, antibiotics and fasting; do not stop medicines on website advice. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Antibody tests may reflect past infection; breath and stool tests evaluate different evidence. They are not interchangeable for every purpose.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Lipase · Amylase · Tissue transglutaminase IgA

References: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) Tests; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Pancreatic elastase (stool test)

Measures pancreatic elastase in stool to help assess pancreatic digestive-enzyme function.

Health topic
Other topics
Collection
Digestive Health & Pancreas
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; stool elastase; fecal elastase; faecal elastase; Pancreatic elastase (stool test); Digestive Health & Pancreas

Preparation: Follow the kit instructions; watery stool can dilute the result. Ask your provider about pancreatic enzyme medicines rather than changing them yourself. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Watery stool may falsely lower the concentration. A result alone cannot diagnose pancreatic enzyme insufficiency.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Lipase · Amylase · Tissue transglutaminase IgA

References: Stool Elastase Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Fecal calprotectin (stool test)

Measures calprotectin in stool as a sign of intestinal inflammation. It does not identify a single cause.

Health topic
Other topics
Collection
Digestive Health & Pancreas
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; stool calprotectin; faecal calprotectin; Fecal calprotectin (stool test); Digestive Health & Pancreas

Preparation: Follow the stool kit instructions. Ask your provider whether medicines, including pain relievers or acid-suppressing medicines, could affect the result. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: High calprotectin has several possible causes; it is not a stand-alone diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Lipase · Amylase · Tissue transglutaminase IgA

References: Calprotectin Stool Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

HIV antigen/antibody test

Looks for HIV antigen and antibodies. Timing since exposure affects detection, and a reactive screen needs follow-up.

Health topic
Other topics
Collection
Infectious Disease Screening
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; HIV combo; fourth-generation HIV; HIV screen; HIV antigen/antibody test; Infectious Disease Screening

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Detection depends on time since exposure and the test method. A reactive screening result needs follow-up.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Hepatitis B surface antigen · Hepatitis B surface antibody · Hepatitis B core antibody

References: HIV Screening Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Hepatitis B surface antigen

Looks for hepatitis B surface antigen, which may indicate a current hepatitis B infection.

Health topic
Other topics
Collection
Infectious Disease Screening
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; HBsAg; hepatitis B antigen; Hepatitis B surface antigen; Infectious Disease Screening

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Surface antigen differs from surface and core antibodies. Interpret it as part of the hepatitis B testing pattern.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: HIV antigen/antibody test · Hepatitis B surface antibody · Hepatitis B core antibody

References: Hepatitis Testing; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Hepatitis B surface antibody

Looks for antibodies to hepatitis B surface antigen. These are interpreted with vaccination history and other markers.

Health topic
Other topics
Collection
Infectious Disease Screening
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; anti-HBs; HBsAb; hepatitis B immunity; Hepatitis B surface antibody; Infectious Disease Screening

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Surface antibody can follow vaccination or infection. It differs from core antibody and surface antigen.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: HIV antigen/antibody test · Hepatitis B surface antigen · Hepatitis B core antibody

References: Hepatitis Testing; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Hepatitis B core antibody

Looks for antibodies to hepatitis B core antigen. Total and IgM core antibody tests answer different questions.

Health topic
Other topics
Collection
Infectious Disease Screening
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; anti-HBc; HBcAb; hepatitis B core; Hepatitis B core antibody; Infectious Disease Screening

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Total core antibody and IgM core antibody have different meanings. Vaccination alone does not produce core antibody.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: HIV antigen/antibody test · Hepatitis B surface antigen · Hepatitis B surface antibody

References: Hepatitis Testing; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Hepatitis C antibody

Looks for antibodies to hepatitis C. A positive antibody result alone does not prove a current infection.

Health topic
Other topics
Collection
Infectious Disease Screening
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; anti-HCV; HCV antibody; Hepatitis C antibody; Infectious Disease Screening

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: A positive HCV antibody result may reflect past or current infection; RNA testing is needed to assess current infection.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: HIV antigen/antibody test · Hepatitis B surface antigen · Hepatitis B surface antibody

References: Hepatitis Testing; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.; CDC: HCV antibody and RNA testing

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Hepatitis C RNA

Looks for hepatitis C genetic material to assess current infection. Quantitative versions report a viral amount.

Health topic
Other topics
Collection
Infectious Disease Screening
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; HCV RNA; hepatitis C PCR; viral load; Hepatitis C RNA; Infectious Disease Screening

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: RNA detection differs from antibody testing. Quantitative and qualitative orders do not report identical information.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: HIV antigen/antibody test · Hepatitis B surface antigen · Hepatitis B surface antibody

References: Hepatitis Testing; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.; CDC: HCV RNA detection and quantitative results

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Method / workflow / grouped procedures

Syphilis screening

Uses selected blood tests to screen for syphilis. Screening and confirmation may follow different laboratory sequences.

Health topic
Other topics
Collection
Infectious Disease Screening
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; RPR; VDRL; treponemal antibody; Syphilis screening; Infectious Disease Screening

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Screening and confirmation use a testing sequence. Past treatment and timing matter when interpreting results.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: HIV antigen/antibody test · Hepatitis B surface antigen · Hepatitis B surface antibody

References: Syphilis Tests; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Panel (multiple measurements)

Epstein-Barr virus antibody panel

Measures selected antibodies to Epstein-Barr virus. The antibody pattern and timing help distinguish possible infection stages.

Health topic
Other topics
Collection
Infectious Disease Screening
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; EBV; VCA; EBNA; Epstein-Barr virus antibody panel; Infectious Disease Screening

Preparation: Confirm the exact antibody panel and collection instructions. The cited CDC interpretation page does not provide a universal preparation rule. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: The pattern of antibodies matters. One positive EBV IgG result does not prove a new infection.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: HIV antigen/antibody test · Hepatitis B surface antigen · Hepatitis B surface antibody

References: CDC: Laboratory Testing for EBV; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Mononucleosis heterophile antibody test

Looks for heterophile antibodies associated with mono. It can miss some infections, especially early in illness.

Health topic
Other topics
Collection
Infectious Disease Screening
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; Monospot; mono screen; heterophile antibody; Mononucleosis heterophile antibody test; Infectious Disease Screening

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: A heterophile test does not specifically confirm EBV and can be falsely negative or positive. CDC does not recommend Monospot for general use.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: HIV antigen/antibody test · Hepatitis B surface antigen · Hepatitis B surface antibody

References: Mononucleosis (Mono) Tests; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.; CDC: limitations of Monospot

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Method / workflow / grouped procedures

Lyme disease antibody testing

Looks for antibodies related to Lyme disease using a testing sequence. Timing and exposure history matter.

Health topic
Other topics
Collection
Infectious Disease Screening
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; Lyme screen; Borrelia antibodies; Lyme disease antibody testing; Infectious Disease Screening

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Antibodies may be absent early or remain after a past infection. Follow the validated testing sequence and clinical assessment.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: HIV antigen/antibody test · Hepatitis B surface antigen · Hepatitis B surface antibody

References: Lyme Disease Tests; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA)

Measures prostate-specific antigen, a protein made by prostate cells. It is not a cancer diagnosis by itself.

Health topic
Other topics
Collection
Specialized & Other Common Tests
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; PSA; total PSA; prostate test; Prostate-specific antigen (PSA); Specialized & Other Common Tests

Preparation: Follow the laboratory’s instructions about ejaculation, procedures and medicines before collection. Requirements can vary by order. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: High PSA is not a cancer diagnosis, and a low result does not completely exclude cancer.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Free PSA · Uric acid · Creatine kinase (CK)

References: Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Free PSA

Measures PSA not bound to blood proteins. It may be compared with total PSA in selected evaluations.

Health topic
Other topics
Collection
Specialized & Other Common Tests
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; free PSA; percent free PSA; Free PSA; Specialized & Other Common Tests

Preparation: Follow the exact PSA order’s preparation; disclose recent prostate procedures and medicines. Check whether total PSA and a calculated percentage are also included. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Free PSA and percentage-free PSA are different results; the percentage also needs total PSA. Neither proves cancer alone.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) · Uric acid · Creatine kinase (CK)

References: Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.; Mayo: free PSA and calculated percentage

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Uric acid

Measures uric acid, a waste product. Blood and urine testing answer different questions.

Read the kidney testing guide →

Health topic
Kidney
Collection
Specialized & Other Common Tests
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; urate; uric acid; Uric acid; Specialized & Other Common Tests

Preparation: Tell the clinician about medicines and supplements, and follow the exact blood or urine collection instructions. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Blood and urine uric acid tests answer different questions. A high level alone does not establish the cause of symptoms.

Limitations: A result must be interpreted with your health history, symptoms, medicines, and other findings. This directory does not diagnose a condition or tell you which tests you need.

Related educational entries: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) · Free PSA · Creatine kinase (CK)

References: Uric Acid Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Creatine kinase (CK)

Measures creatine kinase, an enzyme found mainly in muscle. A result alone does not identify the cause of muscle injury.

Health topic
Other topics
Collection
Specialized & Other Common Tests
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; CK; CPK; muscle enzyme; Creatine kinase (CK); Specialized & Other Common Tests

Preparation: The provider may ask you to avoid strenuous exercise or alcohol before collection. Confirm your instructions. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Exercise and several health conditions can raise CK. It does not identify one cause of muscle injury.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) · Free PSA · Uric acid

References: Creatine Kinase; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Parathyroid hormone (PTH)

Measures parathyroid hormone, which helps regulate calcium. It is interpreted with calcium and other findings.

Health topic
Hormones
Collection
Specialized & Other Common Tests
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; PTH; intact PTH; Parathyroid hormone (PTH); Specialized & Other Common Tests

Preparation: Confirm whether fasting or collection at a particular time is requested for the exact order. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: PTH is interpreted with calcium and other findings; it is not interchangeable with a calcium test.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) · Free PSA · Uric acid

References: Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1)

Measures insulin-like growth factor1, which reflects growth-hormone activity more steadily than a single growth-hormone sample.

Health topic
Hormones
Collection
Specialized & Other Common Tests
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; IGF1; IGF-1; somatomedin C; Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1); Specialized & Other Common Tests

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: IGF-1 differs from a growth-hormone measurement. It is interpreted with age and clinical context.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) · Free PSA · Uric acid

References: IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor 1) Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Cardiac troponin

Measures cardiac troponin, a marker used when evaluating possible heart-muscle injury. This is not routine self-directed screening.

Health topic
Cholesterol
Collection
Specialized & Other Common Tests
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; troponin I; troponin T; hs troponin; Troponin; Specialized & Other Common Tests

Preparation: No special preparation usually applies, but tell the medical team about biotin. Possible heart-attack symptoms need urgent medical care, not an online test order. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Troponin can rise for reasons other than a heart attack. Timing and repeat samples may be important in urgent medical assessment.

Limitations: This test may be used in urgent medical evaluation. It cannot safely rule out an emergency by itself. Do not delay urgent medical care to arrange a test yourself.

Related educational entries: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) · Free PSA · Uric acid

References: Troponin Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP)

Measures BNP, a hormone related to heart strain. It may help evaluate possible heart failure with other findings.

Health topic
Cholesterol
Collection
Specialized & Other Common Tests
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; BNP; brain natriuretic peptide; B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP); Specialized & Other Common Tests

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: BNP is interpreted with symptoms and other findings. BNP and NT-proBNP use different numerical values.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) · Free PSA · Uric acid

References: Natriuretic Peptide Tests (BNP, NT-proBNP); MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

NT-proBNP

Measures NT-proBNP, a related heart-strain marker. Its values and interpretation differ from BNP.

Health topic
Cholesterol
Collection
Specialized & Other Common Tests
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; NTproBNP; N-terminal proBNP; NT-proBNP; Specialized & Other Common Tests

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: NT-proBNP is not interchangeable numerically with BNP. It does not identify the cause of symptoms by itself.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) · Free PSA · Uric acid

References: Natriuretic Peptide Tests (BNP, NT-proBNP); MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

D-dimer

Measures fragments produced when blood clots break down. It cannot diagnose or exclude a clot without the clinical context.

Health topic
Blood counts
Collection
Specialized & Other Common Tests
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; D dimer; clot breakdown; D-dimer; Specialized & Other Common Tests

Preparation: This belongs in a clinician-directed clot evaluation. Do not delay urgent care to obtain a self-ordered D-dimer test. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: High D-dimer has several causes. A clinician uses it with the probability of a clot and other tests.

Limitations: This test may be used in urgent medical evaluation. It cannot safely rule out an emergency by itself. Do not delay urgent medical care to arrange a test yourself.

Related educational entries: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) · Free PSA · Uric acid

References: D-Dimer Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Clotting time and calculated standardized result

Prothrombin time and INR (PT/INR)

Times part of blood clotting. INR standardizes the PT result and may be used to monitor selected anticoagulant treatment.

Health topic
Blood counts
Collection
Specialized & Other Common Tests
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: PT; INR; protime; PT; INR; protime; Prothrombin time (PT/INR); ; Specialized & Other Common Tests

Preparation: Ask the clinician managing any anticoagulant about dose timing. Do not stop or delay a medicine based on this directory. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: INR is derived from PT to help standardize results. It does not make every clotting test equivalent.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) · Free PSA · Uric acid

References: Prothrombin Time Test and INR (PT/INR); MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Clotting-time measurement

Activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT)

Times another part of the clotting process. It differs from PT/INR.

Health topic
Blood counts
Collection
Specialized & Other Common Tests
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; aPTT; PTT; partial thromboplastin time; Activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT); Specialized & Other Common Tests

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: aPTT and PT/INR assess different parts of clotting. Anticoagulants and collection conditions can affect results.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) · Free PSA · Uric acid

References: Partial Thromboplastin Time (PTT) Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Fibrinogen

Measures fibrinogen, a protein involved in clot formation. Testing methods can assess amount or function.

Health topic
Blood counts
Collection
Specialized & Other Common Tests
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; factor I; fibrinogen activity; Fibrinogen; Specialized & Other Common Tests

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Fibrinogen assays can assess function or amount. Check the method rather than assuming every fibrinogen order is equivalent.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) · Free PSA · Uric acid

References: Coagulation Factor Tests; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.; Mayo: fibrinogen method and antigen distinction

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Method / workflow / grouped procedures

Hemoglobin electrophoresis

Separates forms of hemoglobin to help investigate inherited hemoglobin differences and some types of anemia.

Health topic
Blood counts
Collection
Specialized & Other Common Tests
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; hemoglobinopathy screen; Hb electrophoresis; Hemoglobin electrophoresis; Specialized & Other Common Tests

Preparation: Tell the provider about any recent blood transfusion, which can affect the result. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Recent transfusion can affect the pattern. Specialized follow-up may be needed to identify a hemoglobin variant.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) · Free PSA · Uric acid

References: Hemoglobin Electrophoresis; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Method / workflow / grouped procedures

Serum protein electrophoresis

Separates blood proteins into groups. It can help detect unusual protein patterns.

Health topic
Blood counts
Collection
Specialized & Other Common Tests
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; SPEP; protein electrophoresis; Serum protein electrophoresis; Specialized & Other Common Tests

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: SPEP shows protein patterns; immunofixation helps identify a specific abnormal protein. They are related but different procedures.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) · Free PSA · Uric acid

References: Protein Electrophoresis by Immunofixation Blood Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.; Mayo: electrophoresis versus immunofixation

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Method / workflow / grouped procedures

Immunofixation electrophoresis

Helps identify specific types of abnormal proteins after or alongside other protein tests.

Health topic
Blood counts
Collection
Specialized & Other Common Tests
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; IFE; immunofixation; immunoelectrophoresis; Immunofixation electrophoresis; Specialized & Other Common Tests

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Immunofixation differs from protein concentration measurement and SPEP alone. It is interpreted with related results.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) · Free PSA · Uric acid

References: Protein Electrophoresis by Immunofixation Blood Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.; Mayo: electrophoresis versus immunofixation

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Serum free light chains

Measures free antibody light chains. Ratios and amounts require interpretation with kidney function and other information.

Health topic
Blood counts
Collection
Specialized & Other Common Tests
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; FLC; kappa; lambda; free light chains; Serum free light chains; Specialized & Other Common Tests

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Kidney disease can affect light-chain levels. The amounts and ratio need clinical interpretation.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) · Free PSA · Uric acid

References: Free Light Chains; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Lead level

Measures lead exposure using the selected blood-sampling method. Follow-up and confirmation depend on age and circumstances.

Health topic
Other topics
Collection
Specialized & Other Common Tests
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; blood lead; Pb; lead exposure; Lead level; Specialized & Other Common Tests

Preparation: Follow the blood-lead collection instructions to avoid sample contamination. A clinician determines whether a venous confirmation is needed. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: A raised capillary lead result may require venous confirmation. Collection contamination can affect results.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) · Free PSA · Uric acid

References: Heavy Metal Testing; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.; CDC: capillary versus venous blood-lead testing

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Blood-group classification

Blood type and Rh factor

Identifies ABO blood group and Rh type. It does not replace the matching needed for a transfusion.

Health topic
Blood counts
Collection
Specialized & Other Common Tests
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; ABO; Rh; blood group; Blood type and Rh factor; Specialized & Other Common Tests

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed. Transfusion services may require a separately collected, correctly identified sample. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: ABO/Rh typing does not replace antibody screening and compatibility testing before transfusion.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) · Free PSA · Uric acid

References: MedlinePlus: Blood typing; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

Individual measured test

Quantitative immunoglobulin E (IgE)

Measures total immunoglobulin E. It differs from tests for IgE against specific allergens.

Health topic
Other topics
Collection
Specialized & Other Common Tests
Names, preparation, related tests & sources

Common terms: ; IgE; total IgE; allergy antibodies; Quantitative immunoglobulin E (IgE); Specialized & Other Common Tests

Preparation: Usually no special preparation is needed for this test alone. Other tests collected with it may have different requirements. Do not change medicines or supplements unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

Important distinction: Total IgE does not identify the allergen or predict reaction severity. Allergen-specific IgE is a different order.

Limitations: This test has special clinical uses and may need a particular method, timing, or follow-up. It is not a routine screening suggestion. A healthcare professional should guide its use and interpretation.

Related educational entries: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) · Free PSA · Uric acid

References: Allergy Blood Test; MedlinePlus: preparing for laboratory tests.

Concise explanation, test classification, preparation caveats and cited sources editorially checked October 21, 2026 (America/Chicago). This is factual/editorial verification, not independent clinical review. It does not verify provider availability or establish an individual testing recommendation.

Medical Disclaimer
OrderMyOwnLabs.com is an independent educational and referral website, not a medical provider or laboratory. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret your results. Testing services, prices, availability, and ordering requirements are determined by independent third-party providers.

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