Complete Blood Count (CBC)
Reflects the general condition of the hematopoietic system, the presence of inflammatory processes, anemia, immune disorders and blood clotting. Includes 21 parameters. Used as a primary screening for complaints of weakness, fatigue, pallor or frequent infections.
Reasons for increased values: inflammation, dehydration, erythrocytosis, infections, stress
Reasons for decreased values: anemia, blood loss, chronic diseases, iron deficiency, vitamin B12 and folic acid
Alanine aminotransferase (ALT)
An enzyme contained in liver cells. Responsible for amino acid metabolism. An increase in ALT levels is an early marker of liver damage, even in the absence of symptoms. Used to assess hepatotoxicity and dynamic observation.
Normal values for men: up to 45 U/l
Normal values for women:up to 34 U/l
Reasons for increased values: viral hepatitis, fatty hepatosis, toxic liver damage, medication, alcoholism
Reasons for decreased values: severe forms of cirrhosis with liver cell death, vitamin B6 deficiency
Aspartate aminotransferase (AST)
An enzyme contained in the cells of the liver, heart and muscles. An increase in blood levels indicates damage to the cells of these tissues. Used to diagnose hepatitis, myocardial infarction, myopathies. In combination with ALT, it helps to differentiate between liver and extrahepatic origin of pathology.
Normal values for men: up to 40 U/l
Normal values for women:up to 31 U/l
Reasons for increased values:acute hepatitis, myocardial infarction, severe muscle injuries, alcoholic liver damage
Reasons for decreased values: severe liver damage with hepatocyte destruction, vitamin B6 deficiency
Creatinine, serum
Creatinine is the end product of the breakdown of creatine phosphate, which is formed in the muscles. It is excreted by the kidneys and is used to assess the function of glomerular filtration. Changes in its level allow us to judge the functioning of the kidneys, fluid retention and protein metabolism.
Normal values for men: 62–115 µmol/l
Normal values for women:53–97 µmol/l
Reasons for increased values:chronic and acute renal failure, dehydration, massive muscle load, creatine intake
Reasons for decreased values: decreased muscle mass, pregnancy, starvation, liver disease
Urea, serum
Urea is formed in the liver during the breakdown of proteins and is excreted through the kidneys. Its level reflects both kidney function and the intensity of protein metabolism. It can also change with dehydration, intoxication and high-protein diets.
Normal values for men: 3.3–8.3 mmol/l
Normal values for women: 2.5–7.1 mmol/l
Reasons for increased values: renal failure, dehydration, burns, high-protein diets
Reasons for decreased values: cirrhosis, protein deficiency in the diet, pregnancy, increased catabolism
Uric acid, serum
Uric acid is a breakdown product of purine bases. Normally excreted in urine. Increased levels may indicate purine metabolism disorders, and are also associated with diet, alcohol, and kidney function. Used in examination for gout and metabolic syndrome.
Normal values for men: 210–420 µmol/l
Normal values for women:150–350 µmol/l
Reasons for increased values: gout, chronic kidney disease, diuretic use, overnutrition
Reasons for decreased values: allopurinol use, syndrome of inappropriate ADH secretion, protein deficiency
Cholesterol, total
Cholesterol is a fat-like substance involved in the construction of cell membranes, the synthesis of hormones and vitamin D. Excess can contribute to the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. Total cholesterol balance reflects the state of fat metabolism.
Normal range:3.6–5.2 mmol/l
Reasons for increased values: hereditary dyslipidemia, excess fat consumption, hypothyroidism, liver disease
Reasons for decreased values: hyperthyroidism, gastrointestinal diseases, starvation, statin use
Triglycerides
The main form of fat used for energy storage. Elevated levels may be a sign of metabolic disorders, especially in combination with obesity or diabetes. Important for assessing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Normal values for men:up to 2.2 mmol/l
Normal values for women: up to 1.9 mmol/l
Reasons for increased values: overeating, type 2 diabetes, alcohol, obesity
Reasons for decreased values:, hyperthyroidism, chronic lung disease
HDL-cholesterol (HDL – High-Density Lipoprotein)
HDL is involved in reverse cholesterol transport: it collects excess lipids from tissues and blood vessels and transports them back to the liver. Protects blood vessels from plaque formation and reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease. Its level depends on lifestyle, nutrition and physical activity.
Normal values for men: >1.0 mmol/l
Normal values for women: >1.2 mmol/l
Reasons for increased values:intense physical activity, estrogen intake
Reasons for decreased values:smoking, sedentary lifestyle, obesity, insulin resistance
LDL cholesterol (LDL – Low-Density Lipoprotein)
LDL carries cholesterol from the liver to cells. If there is excess, it can accumulate in the walls of blood vessels, contributing to the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. LDL level is one of the main indicators of cardiovascular disease risk. Depends on nutrition, metabolism, activity and hormonal background.
Normal range: <3.0 mmol/l
Reasons for increased values:lipid metabolism disorder, diabetes, chronic inflammation
Reasons for decreased values: taking statins, hyperthyroidism, limiting fats in the diet
Glucose (fasting/random)
The main source of energy for the body. Maintaining a stable glucose level is important for the functioning of the brain, muscles and internal organs. Deviations may indicate latent diabetes, insulin resistance or nutritional disorders.
Normal range (fasting): 3.9–5.5 mmol/l
Reasons for increased values: diabetes, stress, hyperthyroidism, hormonal imbalances
Reasons for decreased values:fasting, overdose of hypoglycemic drugs,
Indications for analysis
General preventive examination
Complaints of weakness, fatigue, decreased concentration
Suspected hidden inflammation or anemia
Fluctuations in body weight, appetite or mood
High blood pressure, swelling
Monitoring glucose and cholesterol levels
Starting new medications or therapies
Preparing for physical activity, vaccination or planned treatment
No examinations during the year and desire to check the state of health
