Hematology is the branch of medicine concerned with the study of blood, blood-forming organs,

and blood diseases. The hematology section in a laboratory typically performs a wide range of
tests to evaluate blood components, diagnose diseases, and monitor conditions. Below is a list of
common hematology tests along with their definitions:

1. Complete Blood Count (CBC)

 Definition: A comprehensive test that measures the concentration of different blood cells,
including red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), platelets, hemoglobin (Hb),
hematocrit (Hct), and red blood cell indices like MCV, MCH, and MCHC.
 Purpose: Detects anemia, infections, inflammation, bleeding disorders, and other blood-
related abnormalities.

2. Hemoglobin (Hb)

 Definition: Measures the amount of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that
carries oxygen.
 Purpose: Diagnoses anemia or polycythemia.

3. Hematocrit (Hct)

 Definition: Measures the percentage of red blood cells in the blood.

 Purpose: Assesses anemia, dehydration, or polycythemia.

4. White Blood Cell (WBC) Count

 Definition: Measures the total number of white blood cells.

 Purpose: Helps identify infections, immune disorders, or hematological malignancies.

5. Differential WBC Count

 Definition: Measures the percentages of different types of white blood cells (neutrophils,
lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils).
 Purpose: Aids in diagnosing infections, allergies, and blood cancers.
6. Platelet Count

 Definition: Measures the number of platelets, which are essential for blood clotting.
 Purpose: Detects clotting disorders like thrombocytopenia or thrombocytosis.

7. Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)

 Definition: Measures the rate at which red blood cells settle in a tube over an hour.
 Purpose: Indicates inflammation, infection, or autoimmune diseases.

8. Peripheral Blood Smear

 Definition: A microscopic examination of blood to assess the morphology of red blood

cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
 Purpose: Diagnoses blood disorders like anemia, leukemia, and infections.

9. Reticulocyte Count

 Definition: Measures the percentage of young red blood cells (reticulocytes) in the blood.
 Purpose: Evaluates bone marrow function and response to anemia.

10. Coagulation Tests

 Includes:
o Prothrombin Time (PT): Measures how long it takes for blood to clot.
o Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (APTT): Evaluates the intrinsic and
common clotting pathways.
o Fibrinogen Levels: Assesses the availability of fibrinogen for clot formation.
 Purpose: Diagnoses bleeding disorders, monitors anticoagulant therapy, or checks liver
function.

11. D-Dimer Test

 Definition: Measures the presence of fibrin degradation products in the blood.

 Purpose: Identifies clotting disorders like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary
embolism.
12. Bone Marrow Aspiration and Biopsy

 Definition: Examination of bone marrow samples to evaluate blood cell production.

 Purpose: Diagnoses bone marrow diseases like leukemia, lymphoma, or aplastic anemia.

13. Iron Studies

 Includes tests like serum ferritin, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), and transferrin
saturation.
 Purpose: Diagnoses iron-deficiency anemia or iron overload conditions.

14. G6PD Test

 Definition: Assesses the activity of the G6PD enzyme in red blood cells.
 Purpose: Diagnoses G6PD deficiency, a genetic disorder leading to hemolytic anemia.

15. Sickle Cell Test

 Definition: Detects the presence of abnormal hemoglobin S in red blood cells.

 Purpose: Diagnoses sickle cell disease or trait.

16. Blood Group and Rh Typing

 Definition: Determines the blood type (A, B, AB, O) and Rh factor (positive or
negative).
 Purpose: Essential for blood transfusions and pregnancy-related care.

17. Eosinophil Count

 Definition: Measures the number of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell.

 Purpose: Helps diagnose allergic reactions, parasitic infections, and certain autoimmune
diseases.
18. Malaria Parasite Test

 Definition: Examines a blood sample for the presence of malaria parasites.

 Purpose: Confirms malaria infection.

19. Red Cell Indices (MCV, MCH, MCHC)

 Definition: Provide detailed information about red blood cell size and hemoglobin
content.
 Purpose: Differentiates between types of anemia.

20. Plasma Viscosity

 Definition: Measures the thickness of plasma in the blood.

 Purpose: Monitors inflammation or diseases like multiple myeloma.

1. Blood Glucose Test

 Purpose: Measures the amount of glucose (sugar) in the blood.

 Use: Diagnoses and monitors diabetes, and evaluates blood sugar control in diabetics.

2. Lipid Profile

 Purpose: A panel of tests measuring different types of fats in the blood, including total
cholesterol, HDL (good cholesterol), LDL (bad cholesterol), and triglycerides.
 Use: Evaluates cardiovascular risk and monitors lipid management in patients with heart
disease or high cholesterol.

3. Liver Function Tests (LFT)

 Purpose: Includes tests like ALT, AST, ALP, and bilirubin to evaluate liver health.
 Use: Detects liver diseases like hepatitis, fatty liver disease, and cirrhosis.

4. Kidney Function Tests (KFT)

 Purpose: Common markers include serum creatinine, BUN (blood urea nitrogen), and
eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate).
 Use: Assesses kidney health and is crucial for diagnosing kidney disease and monitoring
patients with renal impairment.

5. Electrolyte Panel
  Purpose: Measures electrolytes like sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate.
 Use: Evaluates hydration, acid-base balance, and kidney function, and is essential in
conditions involving dehydration or electrolyte imbalance.

6. Complete Blood Count (CBC)

 Purpose: Measures various components of blood, including red blood cells, white blood
cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets.
 Use: Screens for anemia, infections, and many other conditions affecting blood cells.

7. Thyroid Function Tests (TFT)

 Purpose: Measures thyroid hormones like TSH, T3, and T4.

 Use: Diagnoses thyroid disorders, including hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.

8. C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Test

 Purpose: Measures CRP levels, which rise in response to inflammation.

 Use: Detects and monitors inflammation, commonly in conditions like infections,
autoimmune diseases, and heart disease.

9. Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) Test

 Purpose: Measures average blood glucose levels over the past 2-3 months.
 Use: Helps in diabetes diagnosis and management by evaluating long-term blood sugar
control.

10. Calcium Test

 Purpose: Measures calcium levels in blood, important for bone health, muscle function,
and nerve transmission.
 Use: Assesses bone disorders, parathyroid function, and calcium metabolism.

11. Magnesium Test

 Purpose: Assesses magnesium levels, which are critical for muscle and nerve function.
 Use: Helps diagnose magnesium deficiency or excess, which can affect heart and
neuromuscular function.

12. Uric Acid Test

 Purpose: Measures uric acid in blood, a waste product of purine metabolism.

 Use: Diagnoses and monitors gout and assesses kidney function.

13. Protein Tests (Total Protein, Albumin, Globulin)

  Purpose: Measures protein levels in blood, including albumin and globulin.
 Use: Evaluates nutritional status, liver function, and possible kidney disorders.

14. Iron Studies

 Purpose: Includes serum iron, ferritin, TIBC (total iron-binding capacity), and transferrin
levels.
 Use: Diagnoses and monitors iron deficiency anemia and hemochromatosis (iron
overload).

15. Enzyme Tests (e.g., Amylase, Lipase)

 Purpose: Measures levels of specific enzymes, often associated with organ function, like
amylase and lipase for the pancreas.
 Use: Diagnoses pancreatitis, liver disease, and other conditions affecting organs
producing these enzymes.

16. Vitamin D Test

 Purpose: Measures levels of vitamin D in the blood.

 Use: Evaluates vitamin D deficiency, which can affect bone health and immune function.

17. Hormone Tests

 Purpose: Includes tests for various hormones like cortisol, estrogen, testosterone, and
prolactin.
 Use: Assesses endocrine function, diagnoses hormonal imbalances, and supports fertility
assessments.

18. Bilirubin Test

 Purpose: Measures bilirubin, a waste product formed from the breakdown of red blood
cells.
 Use: Diagnoses and monitors liver and bile duct disorders and evaluates jaundice.

19. Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) Test

 Purpose: Measures LDH levels, an enzyme released during tissue damage.

 Use: Helps detect tissue damage, hemolysis, and certain cancers.

1. Vitamin and Mineral Tests

 Vitamin D: Measures the level of vitamin D in the blood, which is crucial for bone
health, immune function, and calcium absorption.
  Vitamin B12: Assesses vitamin B12 levels, important for nerve function, red blood cell
formation, and DNA synthesis.
 Folate: Tests folic acid levels, essential for DNA synthesis and cell division, especially
important during pregnancy.
 Magnesium: Evaluates magnesium levels, important for muscle and nerve function,
blood pressure regulation, and bone health.
 Calcium: Measures blood calcium levels to assess bone health, nerve transmission, and
muscle function.

2. Tumor Markers

 PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen): Used to screen for prostate cancer and monitor
treatment efficacy.
 CA-125: A marker used primarily for ovarian cancer detection and monitoring.
 AFP (Alpha-Fetoprotein): Assesses liver health, screens for liver cancer, and is also
used in pregnancy to detect fetal anomalies.
 CA 19-9: Helps in diagnosing and monitoring treatment for gastrointestinal cancers,
particularly pancreatic cancer.
 CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen): Used in monitoring colorectal cancer and some
other types of cancer.

3. Hormone Tests

 Thyroid Hormones (TSH, Free T3, Free T4): Used to evaluate thyroid function and
diagnose conditions like hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.
 Cortisol: Measures cortisol levels to diagnose adrenal disorders like Cushing's syndrome
and Addison's disease.
 Insulin: Determines insulin levels, which can help diagnose diabetes, insulin resistance,
and other metabolic disorders.
 Parathyroid Hormone (PTH): Helps to assess parathyroid function and regulate
calcium levels in the body.
 LH/FSH (Luteinizing Hormone/Follicle-Stimulating Hormone): Used in evaluating
fertility, menstrual irregularities, and pituitary gland function.

4. Immunoglobulin and Allergy Tests

 IgE: Measures total immunoglobulin E (IgE), used to assess allergic responses.

 IgA, IgG, IgM: Measures different immunoglobulins to evaluate immune system health
and detect autoimmune or immune deficiency disorders.
 Allergy Panels: Detect specific allergen sensitivities to substances like pollen, foods, or
pet dander.

5. Infectious Disease Serology

 HIV Test: Detects antibodies or antigens associated with HIV infection.

  Hepatitis B and C Serology: Measures antibodies or antigens related to hepatitis B and
C infections.
 Syphilis (VDRL, RPR): Used to diagnose syphilis.
 EBV (Epstein-Barr Virus): Tests for antibodies related to infectious mononucleosis
caused by EBV.
 CMV (Cytomegalovirus): Assesses antibodies to CMV, which can cause serious
infections, especially in immunocompromised individuals.

6. Autoimmune and Inflammatory Markers

 CRP (C-Reactive Protein): Measures inflammation in the body, often elevated in

infections, autoimmune disorders, and chronic diseases.
 ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate): Another test for inflammation, used to
diagnose autoimmune and inflammatory conditions.
 ANA (Antinuclear Antibody): Helps in diagnosing autoimmune diseases like lupus.
 Rheumatoid Factor (RF): Assesses for rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune
conditions.
 Complement Levels (C3, C4): Measures complement proteins, which are part of the
immune system and help in diagnosing autoimmune conditions.

7. Toxicology Screens

 Drug Screening: Tests for various recreational and prescription drugs in the body.
 Heavy Metals (Lead, Mercury, Arsenic): Measures levels of toxic heavy metals in the
blood, often used in cases of suspected poisoning.

8. Specialized Protein Tests

 Protein Electrophoresis: Separates proteins in the blood to help diagnose conditions like
multiple myeloma and liver disease.
 Albumin: Measures the level of albumin, a protein that helps maintain fluid balance in
blood vessels and can indicate liver and kidney health.
 Prealbumin: Evaluates nutritional status and is often used to monitor malnutrition or
liver disease.

9. Metabolic and Genetic Tests

 Lactate: Measures lactic acid levels, which can be elevated in conditions where oxygen
delivery is compromised (e.g., sepsis, shock).
 Ammonia: Assesses ammonia levels to diagnose liver or metabolic disorders.
 Genetic Testing: Identifies genetic mutations or markers for hereditary conditions and
personalized medicine applications.
 Newborn Screening: Detects metabolic, genetic, or hormone disorders in newborns.

10. Enzyme and Cardiac Markers

  CK-MB (Creatine Kinase-MB): Measures heart muscle damage and is used in
diagnosing heart attacks.
 Troponin: A sensitive marker for detecting heart attacks or myocardial damage.
 LDH (Lactate Dehydrogenase): Evaluates cellular damage in tissues and can be
elevated in various conditions, including heart and liver disease.
 Amylase/Lipase: Assesses enzyme levels related to pancreatic function and can help
diagnose pancreatitis.

Urine Tests:

1. Urinalysis (UA):
o Description: This is a routine test that examines the physical, chemical, and
microscopic properties of urine. It includes tests for color, pH, protein, glucose,
ketones, blood, nitrites, leukocyte esterase, bilirubin, urobilinogen, and specific
gravity.
o Purpose: To screen for and diagnose various conditions, such as urinary tract
infections (UTIs), kidney disease, diabetes, and liver disease.
2. Urine Culture and Sensitivity:
o Description: A test that involves culturing urine to detect and identify bacteria or
fungi that may be causing an infection. Sensitivity testing determines which
antibiotics can effectively treat the infection.
o Purpose: To diagnose UTIs and select the appropriate antibiotic treatment.
3. 24-Hour Urine Collection:
o Description: This test collects urine over a 24-hour period to measure specific
compounds or chemicals, such as proteins, electrolytes, creatinine, and cortisol.
o Purpose: To assess kidney function, diagnose metabolic disorders, and monitor
certain health conditions, including adrenal gland function.
4. Urine Protein/Creatinine Ratio (UPCR):
o Description: Measures the amount of protein in the urine compared to creatinine
levels to estimate the degree of proteinuria.
o Purpose: To evaluate kidney function and detect early signs of kidney disease.
5. Urine Microscopy:
o Description: Involves examining urine under a microscope to identify cells,
bacteria, yeast, crystals, casts, and other elements.
o Purpose: To diagnose conditions like UTIs, kidney stones, and other renal
disorders.
6. Urine Electrolytes:
o Description: Measures levels of electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and
chloride in the urine.
o Purpose: To evaluate hydration status, electrolyte imbalances, and kidney
function.
7. Urine Pregnancy Test (hCG):
o Description: Detects human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone produced
during pregnancy.
o Purpose: To confirm pregnancy.
Microbiology Tests:

1. Bacterial Culture and Sensitivity (C&S):

o Description: A culture test that identifies bacterial pathogens from samples like
blood, urine, stool, or wound swabs. Sensitivity testing is also done to identify
effective antibiotics.
o Purpose: To diagnose bacterial infections and guide antibiotic treatment.
2. Gram Stain:
o Description: A rapid staining technique that differentiates bacteria into Gram-
positive (purple) and Gram-negative (pink) based on cell wall structure.
o Purpose: Provides initial information about bacterial classification and guides
early treatment.
3. Acid-Fast Bacilli (AFB) Test:
o Description: A stain and culture test specifically designed to detect acid-fast
bacteria, such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
o Purpose: To diagnose tuberculosis (TB) and other mycobacterial infections.
4. Blood Culture:
o Description: A test where blood is cultured to detect the presence of bacteria or
fungi in the bloodstream.
o Purpose: To diagnose bacteremia and septicemia, often in patients with fever,
chills, or suspected sepsis.
5. Fungal Culture:
o Description: Involves culturing a sample to detect fungal pathogens.
o Purpose: To diagnose fungal infections, especially in immunocompromised
individuals.
6. Stool Culture:
o Description: A culture test that identifies pathogenic bacteria in stool samples.
o Purpose: To diagnose gastrointestinal infections caused by bacteria such as
Salmonella, Shigella, and E. coli.
7. Viral Culture and PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction):
o Description: PCR detects viral DNA/RNA from a sample. Viral cultures may
also be performed for specific viruses.
o Purpose: To identify viral infections, often used for respiratory, blood, or genital
samples.
8. Antigen Detection Tests:
o Description: Tests that detect specific antigens from bacteria, viruses, or fungi,
often through immunoassay techniques.
o Purpose: To provide rapid results for infections like influenza, RSV, and group A
Streptococcus.
9. Antibody Tests (Serology):
o Description: Tests that detect antibodies against specific pathogens in blood or
other body fluids.
o Purpose: To assess past exposure or immune response to infections such as HIV,
hepatitis, and Lyme disease.
10. Parasitology Tests:
o Description: Includes stool examination, microscopy, and antigen tests to detect
parasites like Giardia, Entamoeba histolytica, and Plasmodium (malaria).
o Purpose: To diagnose parasitic infections, particularly those affecting the
gastrointestinal and blood systems.