How to interpret laboratory data:Introduction.

It is important for pharmacist to learn how to read laboratory report and interpret its data that will help him in:

1. Recognize normal ranges for common laboratory values in adults.
2. Identify common causes for abnormal laboratory values.

3. List circumstances that may produce false-negative or false-positive laboratory results.
4. Interpret the clinical significance of abnormal laboratory values.
5. Utilize clinical laboratory data to monitor various disease states.

Content:

These lectures are designed to provide an overview of common laboratory tests used in clinical practice. The most frequently used tests such as:

•             Completeblood count (CBC-1)
• ,      Completeblood count (CBC-2)
•          Electrolytes and blood chemistries,
•        Urinalysis(UA)
•          Clinical and diagnostic tests:

1.      Cardiac tests

2.      Liver function tests

3.      Kidney function tests

4.      GIT tests

•          Endocrine tests

1.      Thyroid function test

2.      Diabetes mellitus tests

3.      Adrenal gland tests

•          Hematologic tests
•          Coagulation tests
•          Immunologic tests
•          Infectious disease diagnostic tests

CLINICAL PEARLS WHEN INTERPRETING LABORATORY DATA

•  Normal values may vary from laboratory to laboratory, depending on techniques
  and reagents used.
  
  
•  Normal values may also vary depending on the patient’s age, gender, weight,
  height, and other factors.
  
  
• Laboratory error is a fairly uncommon occurrence; however, it can happen.
  Potential causes of laboratory error include technical error, improper calculation, inadequate specimen, incorrect sample timing, improper sample preservation, food substances affecting specimen, or medication interference with laboratory tests. 
•  If laboratory error is suspected, the test should be repeated.
•  Remember: always treat the patient, not the laboratory value!