Laboratory tests: 5 examples and what they check
Learn what blood counts, urine tests, stool tests, blood glucose and lipid panels check. Ask your healthcare professional which tests are right for you.
If you have been asked to get lab tests, understanding their purpose can help you prepare your questions. Laboratory tests examine samples from the body to support medical assessment; results are interpreted alongside your symptoms and medical history.
These are five examples, not a list of tests everyone needs. Your healthcare professional determines which tests are appropriate for you and how to interpret their results.
1. Complete blood count
Measures blood components, including red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. It can support assessment of anemia and other conditions, as well as monitoring of certain treatments.
Source: MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine (Spanish)2. Urinalysis
Examines characteristics of urine and the presence of substances or cells. It is used, among other reasons, to investigate urinary or kidney problems. Results require clinical interpretation.
Source: MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine (Spanish)3. Stool tests
There are different tests for stool samples, and they are not interchangeable. For example, a fecal occult blood test looks for blood that cannot be seen with the naked eye; other tests have different purposes. Confirm the exact test that has been ordered.
Source: MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine (Spanish)4. Blood glucose
Measures the amount of glucose, a type of sugar, in the blood. It is used to screen for and monitor diabetes, among other purposes. Preparation depends on the test ordered.
Source: MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine (Spanish)5. Lipid panel
Measures fats in the blood, including cholesterol and triglycerides. This information helps assess cardiovascular risk alongside other health factors; a single result does not determine your overall risk.
Source: MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine (Spanish)Before having a test
Ask what the test is looking for, how to prepare and when you will discuss the results. Follow the specific instructions from the laboratory and the professional ordering it; preparation varies between tests.