A Consumer's Guide to Laboratory Tests

By Mary C. Ricotta

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

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1591022479
• ISBN13: 9781591022473
• Release Date: February 2005
• Publisher: Prometheus Books
• Length: 301 Pages
• Weight: 1.00 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 6.1" x 9.1"

Customer Reviews

Do you or a love one have labs tests?

If you or a loved one will have laboratory tests, this is a must read. When a doctor orders a test the report goes back to the doctor and he summarizes the results. Wouldn't you want to know before you have the test why your doctor is ordering the test, what to expect, what is normal? Then this is a must read. It is written in very easy to understand language that you can actually understand your own lab reports. Today, people need to be actively involved in their health care. This is the first big step.

Overview about laboratory tests, for the consumers' POV

A nice book to give an overview about laboratory tests. It exactly delivers what the title says. Not in a boring way, but precisely what a consumer needs to know.