Tests
How common lab tests and imaging scans work, why they are ordered, and what their results generally describe.
- TestsBasic Metabolic Panel (BMP)What a basic metabolic panel (BMP) measures, including glucose, electrolytes, and kidney markers, with general reference information.
- TestsCommon Terms in MRI ReportsA general glossary of terms often seen in MRI reports, such as hyperintense, enhancement, and incidental finding. Educational only, not interpretation.
- TestsComplete Blood Count (CBC)What a complete blood count (CBC) measures, including red cells, white cells, hemoglobin, and platelets, and how results are generally described.
- TestsCT ScanGeneral guide to CT (computed tomography) scans: how they work, why they are done, contrast, radiation, and what the exam is like.
- TestsHemoglobin A1CWhat the hemoglobin A1C blood test measures, the general ADA categories for normal, prediabetes, and diabetes, and factors that affect it.
- TestsLDL CholesterolWhat LDL ("bad") cholesterol is, how it is measured in a blood test, and general reference categories used for adults.
- TestsLipid PanelWhat a lipid panel (cholesterol test) measures, including total, LDL, and HDL cholesterol and triglycerides, with general adult reference ranges.
- TestsMRI Contrast (Gadolinium)General information about gadolinium-based contrast agents used in MRI: why they are used, how they are given, and known safety considerations.
- TestsMRI ScanGeneral guide to MRI scans: how magnetic resonance imaging works, why it is used, what the scan is like, and safety basics.
- TestsMRI vs CT ScanA general comparison of MRI and CT scans: how each works, what each shows best, typical scan times, radiation, and safety considerations.
- TestsPreparing for an MRIGeneral overview of how people commonly prepare for an MRI, including safety screening, metal and implants, clothing, and what happens on the day.
- TestsThyroid Function Tests (TSH)What thyroid function tests such as TSH, free T4, and T3 measure, how results are generally described, and what can affect them.
- TestsUnderstanding Blood Pressure ReadingsWhat the two numbers in a blood pressure reading mean, the general AHA/ACC adult categories, and how readings are taken and checked.