WHAT DOES A GENERAL BLOOD TEST INCLUDE:
CBC (Complete Blood Count): It is a blood test that measures different components and characteristics of the blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets. It helps diagnose various conditions such as anemia, infections, and other hematologic diseases.
CMP (Comprehensive Metabolic Panel): It is a set of 14 blood tests that provides information about the body's chemical balance and metabolism. It evaluates glucose, calcium, protein, electrolyte levels, and kidney and liver function. It is useful for diagnosing and monitoring problems like liver disease, kidney disease, and diabetes.
LP (Lipid Profile): It is a blood test that measures total cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol, HDL (good) cholesterol, and triglyceride levels. It helps assess the risk of heart disease and guide treatment to reduce that risk.
CMP (Comprehensive Metabolic Panel): It is a set of 14 blood tests that provides information about the body's chemical balance and metabolism. It evaluates glucose, calcium, protein, electrolyte levels, and kidney and liver function. It is useful for diagnosing and monitoring problems like liver disease, kidney disease, and diabetes.
LP (Lipid Profile): It is a blood test that measures total cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol, HDL (good) cholesterol, and triglyceride levels. It helps assess the risk of heart disease and guide treatment to reduce that risk.
ARThRITIS PANEL:
An arthritis panel is a set of laboratory tests used to help diagnose different types of arthritis and other autoimmune diseases that can affect the joints. These tests can provide valuable information about inflammation and immune function in your body. Here are some typical components of an arthritis panel and what they can indicate:
1. **Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)**: Measures the rate at which red blood cells settle at the bottom of a test tube in one hour. An elevated ESR can indicate inflammation in the body.
2. **C-Reactive Protein (CRP)**: A protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation. A high CRP level may suggest the presence of inflammation in the body.
3. **Rheumatoid Factor (RF)**: An antibody that can be present in the blood of people with rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases. A positive result can help diagnose rheumatoid arthritis.
4. **Antinuclear Antibodies (ANA)**: These antibodies attack structures in the cell nucleus. A positive result can indicate the presence of an autoimmune disease, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
5. **Anti-Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide Antibodies (anti-CCP)**: These antibodies are more specific to rheumatoid arthritis and can help confirm the diagnosis.
6. **Liver and Kidney Function Tests**: These may be included to assess the impact of inflammation or medications on these organs.
7. **Complete Blood Count (CBC)**: Measures different components of the blood, such as red and white blood cells, and can help detect anemia or infections, which are sometimes associated with inflammatory diseases.
These tests help doctors identify the cause of joint symptoms, determine the specific type of arthritis you may have, and decide on the best treatment plan. It's important to interpret these results along with your medical history and physical examination, as some of these tests can be positive in people without arthritis or negative in people with the disease.
1. **Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)**: Measures the rate at which red blood cells settle at the bottom of a test tube in one hour. An elevated ESR can indicate inflammation in the body.
2. **C-Reactive Protein (CRP)**: A protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation. A high CRP level may suggest the presence of inflammation in the body.
3. **Rheumatoid Factor (RF)**: An antibody that can be present in the blood of people with rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases. A positive result can help diagnose rheumatoid arthritis.
4. **Antinuclear Antibodies (ANA)**: These antibodies attack structures in the cell nucleus. A positive result can indicate the presence of an autoimmune disease, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
5. **Anti-Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide Antibodies (anti-CCP)**: These antibodies are more specific to rheumatoid arthritis and can help confirm the diagnosis.
6. **Liver and Kidney Function Tests**: These may be included to assess the impact of inflammation or medications on these organs.
7. **Complete Blood Count (CBC)**: Measures different components of the blood, such as red and white blood cells, and can help detect anemia or infections, which are sometimes associated with inflammatory diseases.
These tests help doctors identify the cause of joint symptoms, determine the specific type of arthritis you may have, and decide on the best treatment plan. It's important to interpret these results along with your medical history and physical examination, as some of these tests can be positive in people without arthritis or negative in people with the disease.
Men hormones panel
They are used to evaluate the levels of different hormones in a man's body. These tests can help diagnose various conditions related to the endocrine system, fertility, sexual development, and other aspects of health. Below are some of the most common hormone tests in men and their purposes:
**Total Testosterone**:
- **Description**: Measures the total amount of testosterone in the blood, including both free and protein-bound testosterone.
- **Purpose**: To evaluate issues related to libido, sexual function, muscle mass, bone density, and sexual development.
**Free Testosterone**:
- **Description**: Measures the amount of testosterone that is not bound to proteins and is available for use by the body.
- **Purpose**: Can provide a more accurate picture of available testosterone, especially if binding protein levels are altered.
**Luteinizing Hormone (LH)**:
- **Description**: Measures LH levels, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that regulates testosterone production in the testes.
- **Purpose**: To evaluate testicular function and testosterone production, as well as pituitary gland function.
**Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)**:
- **Description**: Measures FSH levels, another pituitary hormone that regulates sperm production.
- **Purpose**: To evaluate testicular function and sperm production, and to help diagnose fertility issues.
**Prolactin**:
- **Description**: Measures prolactin levels, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland.
- **Purpose**: To evaluate sexual dysfunction, low libido, and fertility issues. High levels may indicate pituitary gland problems.
**Estradiol**:
- **Description**: Measures estradiol levels, a form of estrogen.
- **Purpose**: To evaluate hormonal balance, as abnormally high levels can affect reproductive function and general health.
**Thyroid Hormones (TSH, T3, T4)**:
- **Description**: Measures thyroid hormone levels and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).
- **Purpose**: To evaluate thyroid function, as thyroid dysfunctions can affect energy, metabolism, and sexual health.
**Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG)**:
- **Description**: Measures SHBG levels, a protein that binds to testosterone and other sex hormones.
- **Purpose**: To help interpret total and free testosterone levels, as SHBG affects the amount of free testosterone available.
**Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate (DHEA-S)**:
- **Description**: Measures DHEA-S levels, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands.
- **Purpose**: To evaluate adrenal gland function and overall hormonal balance.
These hormone tests may be ordered by your doctor based on the symptoms you are experiencing and the conditions suspected. The results of these tests, along with your medical history and physical examination, will help your doctor diagnose and treat any hormonal issues you may have. If you have any additional questions or need more information about any of these tests, feel free to ask me.
**Total Testosterone**:
- **Description**: Measures the total amount of testosterone in the blood, including both free and protein-bound testosterone.
- **Purpose**: To evaluate issues related to libido, sexual function, muscle mass, bone density, and sexual development.
**Free Testosterone**:
- **Description**: Measures the amount of testosterone that is not bound to proteins and is available for use by the body.
- **Purpose**: Can provide a more accurate picture of available testosterone, especially if binding protein levels are altered.
**Luteinizing Hormone (LH)**:
- **Description**: Measures LH levels, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that regulates testosterone production in the testes.
- **Purpose**: To evaluate testicular function and testosterone production, as well as pituitary gland function.
**Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)**:
- **Description**: Measures FSH levels, another pituitary hormone that regulates sperm production.
- **Purpose**: To evaluate testicular function and sperm production, and to help diagnose fertility issues.
**Prolactin**:
- **Description**: Measures prolactin levels, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland.
- **Purpose**: To evaluate sexual dysfunction, low libido, and fertility issues. High levels may indicate pituitary gland problems.
**Estradiol**:
- **Description**: Measures estradiol levels, a form of estrogen.
- **Purpose**: To evaluate hormonal balance, as abnormally high levels can affect reproductive function and general health.
**Thyroid Hormones (TSH, T3, T4)**:
- **Description**: Measures thyroid hormone levels and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).
- **Purpose**: To evaluate thyroid function, as thyroid dysfunctions can affect energy, metabolism, and sexual health.
**Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG)**:
- **Description**: Measures SHBG levels, a protein that binds to testosterone and other sex hormones.
- **Purpose**: To help interpret total and free testosterone levels, as SHBG affects the amount of free testosterone available.
**Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate (DHEA-S)**:
- **Description**: Measures DHEA-S levels, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands.
- **Purpose**: To evaluate adrenal gland function and overall hormonal balance.
These hormone tests may be ordered by your doctor based on the symptoms you are experiencing and the conditions suspected. The results of these tests, along with your medical history and physical examination, will help your doctor diagnose and treat any hormonal issues you may have. If you have any additional questions or need more information about any of these tests, feel free to ask me.
Women hormones panel
They are used to evaluate the levels of different hormones in a woman's body. These tests can help diagnose various conditions related to the endocrine system, fertility, menstrual cycle, and other aspects of reproductive health. Below are some of the most common hormone tests in women and their purposes:
**Estradiol (E2)**:
- **Description**: Measures estradiol levels, a form of estrogen.
- **Purpose**: To evaluate ovarian function, menstrual cycle, and reproductive health. Estradiol levels can vary during the menstrual cycle.
**Progesterone**:
- **Description**: Measures progesterone levels, a hormone produced by the ovaries after ovulation.
- **Purpose**: To confirm ovulation and evaluate the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. It is crucial for the maintenance of early pregnancy.
**Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)**:
- **Description**: Measures FSH levels, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles.
- **Purpose**: To evaluate ovarian function, menstrual cycle, and ovarian reserve. High levels can indicate menopause or premature ovarian failure.
**Luteinizing Hormone (LH)**:
- **Description**: Measures LH levels, a pituitary hormone that triggers ovulation.
- **Purpose**: To monitor ovulation and evaluate fertility issues. An increase in LH indicates that ovulation is imminent.
**Prolactin**:
- **Description**: Measures prolactin levels, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland.
- **Purpose**: To evaluate menstrual dysfunctions, fertility issues, and milk production. High levels can indicate a problem with the pituitary gland.
**Thyroid Hormones (TSH, T3, T4)**:
- **Description**: Measures thyroid hormone levels and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).
- **Purpose**: To evaluate thyroid function, as thyroid dysfunctions can affect the menstrual cycle, fertility, and metabolism.
**Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH)**:
- **Description**: Measures AMH levels, a hormone produced by ovarian follicles.
- **Purpose**: To evaluate ovarian reserve and fertility. AMH levels can help predict the response to ovarian stimulation in fertility treatments.
**Testosterone**:
- **Description**: Measures testosterone levels, a hormone also found in small amounts in women.
- **Purpose**: To evaluate issues such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hirsutism (excessive hair growth), and other hormonal imbalances.
**Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate (DHEA-S)**:
- **Description**: Measures DHEA-S levels, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands.
- **Purpose**: To evaluate adrenal gland function and overall hormonal balance. Abnormal levels can be related to fertility issues and PCOS.
**Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG)**:
- **Description**: Measures SHBG levels, a protein that binds to sex hormones.
- **Purpose**: To help interpret testosterone and estrogen levels, as SHBG affects the amount of free hormones available.
These hormone tests may be ordered by your doctor based on the symptoms you are experiencing and the conditions suspected. The results of these tests, along with your medical history and physical examination, will help your doctor diagnose and treat any hormonal issues you may have.
**Estradiol (E2)**:
- **Description**: Measures estradiol levels, a form of estrogen.
- **Purpose**: To evaluate ovarian function, menstrual cycle, and reproductive health. Estradiol levels can vary during the menstrual cycle.
**Progesterone**:
- **Description**: Measures progesterone levels, a hormone produced by the ovaries after ovulation.
- **Purpose**: To confirm ovulation and evaluate the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. It is crucial for the maintenance of early pregnancy.
**Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)**:
- **Description**: Measures FSH levels, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles.
- **Purpose**: To evaluate ovarian function, menstrual cycle, and ovarian reserve. High levels can indicate menopause or premature ovarian failure.
**Luteinizing Hormone (LH)**:
- **Description**: Measures LH levels, a pituitary hormone that triggers ovulation.
- **Purpose**: To monitor ovulation and evaluate fertility issues. An increase in LH indicates that ovulation is imminent.
**Prolactin**:
- **Description**: Measures prolactin levels, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland.
- **Purpose**: To evaluate menstrual dysfunctions, fertility issues, and milk production. High levels can indicate a problem with the pituitary gland.
**Thyroid Hormones (TSH, T3, T4)**:
- **Description**: Measures thyroid hormone levels and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).
- **Purpose**: To evaluate thyroid function, as thyroid dysfunctions can affect the menstrual cycle, fertility, and metabolism.
**Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH)**:
- **Description**: Measures AMH levels, a hormone produced by ovarian follicles.
- **Purpose**: To evaluate ovarian reserve and fertility. AMH levels can help predict the response to ovarian stimulation in fertility treatments.
**Testosterone**:
- **Description**: Measures testosterone levels, a hormone also found in small amounts in women.
- **Purpose**: To evaluate issues such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hirsutism (excessive hair growth), and other hormonal imbalances.
**Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate (DHEA-S)**:
- **Description**: Measures DHEA-S levels, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands.
- **Purpose**: To evaluate adrenal gland function and overall hormonal balance. Abnormal levels can be related to fertility issues and PCOS.
**Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG)**:
- **Description**: Measures SHBG levels, a protein that binds to sex hormones.
- **Purpose**: To help interpret testosterone and estrogen levels, as SHBG affects the amount of free hormones available.
These hormone tests may be ordered by your doctor based on the symptoms you are experiencing and the conditions suspected. The results of these tests, along with your medical history and physical examination, will help your doctor diagnose and treat any hormonal issues you may have.
Thyroid test
They are essential for evaluating the function of the thyroid gland, an endocrine gland that regulates metabolism by producing thyroid hormones. The most common tests for evaluating thyroid function include:
**Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH)**:
- **Description**: Measures the level of TSH in the blood. TSH is produced by the pituitary gland and regulates the production of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland.
- **Purpose**: It is the most common initial test for evaluating thyroid function. Elevated TSH levels may indicate hypothyroidism (low thyroid function), while low levels may indicate hyperthyroidism (high thyroid function).
**Free Thyroxine (Free T4)**:
- **Description**: Measures the amount of free thyroxine in the blood, which is the active form of the thyroid hormone T4.
- **Purpose**: Helps diagnose hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism and assess the severity of these conditions. It is often performed along with the TSH test.
**Free Triiodothyronine (Free T3)**:
- **Description**: Measures the amount of free triiodothyronine in the blood, which is the active form of the thyroid hormone T3.
- **Purpose**: Mainly used to diagnose hyperthyroidism, as T3 levels can be elevated even if T4 levels are normal.
**Total Thyroxine (Total T4)**:
- **Description**: Measures the total amount of thyroxine in the blood, including both free and protein-bound thyroxine.
- **Purpose**: Helps evaluate thyroid function, although it can be affected by the levels of binding proteins in the blood.
**Total Triiodothyronine (Total T3)**:
- **Description**: Measures the total amount of triiodothyronine in the blood, including both free and protein-bound triiodothyronine.
- **Purpose**: Can be useful in certain cases of hyperthyroidism.
These tests are often ordered based on the symptoms you are experiencing and the conditions suspected. The results, along with your medical history and physical examination, will help your doctor diagnose and treat any thyroid issues you may have.
**Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH)**:
- **Description**: Measures the level of TSH in the blood. TSH is produced by the pituitary gland and regulates the production of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland.
- **Purpose**: It is the most common initial test for evaluating thyroid function. Elevated TSH levels may indicate hypothyroidism (low thyroid function), while low levels may indicate hyperthyroidism (high thyroid function).
**Free Thyroxine (Free T4)**:
- **Description**: Measures the amount of free thyroxine in the blood, which is the active form of the thyroid hormone T4.
- **Purpose**: Helps diagnose hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism and assess the severity of these conditions. It is often performed along with the TSH test.
**Free Triiodothyronine (Free T3)**:
- **Description**: Measures the amount of free triiodothyronine in the blood, which is the active form of the thyroid hormone T3.
- **Purpose**: Mainly used to diagnose hyperthyroidism, as T3 levels can be elevated even if T4 levels are normal.
**Total Thyroxine (Total T4)**:
- **Description**: Measures the total amount of thyroxine in the blood, including both free and protein-bound thyroxine.
- **Purpose**: Helps evaluate thyroid function, although it can be affected by the levels of binding proteins in the blood.
**Total Triiodothyronine (Total T3)**:
- **Description**: Measures the total amount of triiodothyronine in the blood, including both free and protein-bound triiodothyronine.
- **Purpose**: Can be useful in certain cases of hyperthyroidism.
These tests are often ordered based on the symptoms you are experiencing and the conditions suspected. The results, along with your medical history and physical examination, will help your doctor diagnose and treat any thyroid issues you may have.
STD
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), also known as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are infections that are passed from one person to another through sexual contact. Testing for STDs is essential for early diagnosis and treatment, which is crucial for preventing long-term complications and transmission to others. Below are some of the most common tests for STDs:
**Chlamydia and Gonorrhea**:
- **Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT)**:
- **Description**: Detects the genetic material of *Chlamydia trachomatis* and *Neisseria gonorrhoeae*.
- **Samples**: Urine or swab from the urethra, cervix, rectum, or throat.
- **Purpose**: To diagnose chlamydia and gonorrhea infections, which can cause symptoms such as painful urination and discharge, but can also be asymptomatic.
**Syphilis**:
- **Non-Treponemal Test (VDRL, RPR)**:
- **Description**: Detects non-specific antibodies produced in response to *Treponema pallidum* infection.
- **Sample**: Blood.
- **Purpose**: To detect active infection. It is used for initial screening.
- **Treponemal Test (FTA-ABS, TP-PA)**:
- **Description**: Detects specific antibodies against *Treponema pallidum*.
- **Sample**: Blood.
- **Purpose**: To confirm a positive syphilis diagnosis.
**HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)**:
- **Antibody/Antigen Test (ELISA, EIA)**:
- **Description**: Detects antibodies to HIV and the p24 antigen.
- **Sample**: Blood or saliva.
- **Purpose**: To diagnose HIV infection. A positive result is confirmed with an additional test (western blot or second-generation immunoassay).
- **Viral Load Test (PCR)**:
- **Description**: Measures the amount of HIV RNA in the blood.
- **Sample**: Blood.
- **Purpose**: To monitor disease progression and treatment effectiveness.
**Herpes Simplex (HSV-1 and HSV-2)**:
- **PCR Test**:
- **Description**: Detects the genetic material of the herpes simplex virus.
- **Sample**: Swab from a sore or blood sample.
- **Purpose**: To diagnose active herpes infections (genital and oral).
- **Antibody Test**:
- **Description**: Detects antibodies to HSV-1 and HSV-2.
- **Sample**: Blood.
- **Purpose**: To determine if a person has been exposed to the virus in the past.
**Human Papillomavirus (HPV)**:
- **HPV Test**:
- **Description**: Detects HPV DNA in cervical cells.
- **Sample**: Cervical swab (usually performed along with a Pap smear).
- **Purpose**: To diagnose high-risk HPV infections that can lead to cervical cancer.
**Hepatitis B and C**:
- **Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Test (HBsAg)**:
- **Description**: Detects the surface antigen of the hepatitis B virus.
- **Sample**: Blood.
- **Purpose**: To diagnose active hepatitis B infection.
- **Hepatitis C Antibody Test (anti-HCV)**:
- **Description**: Detects antibodies to the hepatitis C virus.
- **Sample**: Blood.
- **Purpose**: To diagnose hepatitis C infection. A positive result is confirmed with an HCV RNA test to detect active virus.
**Trichomoniasis**:
- **Culture or NAAT Test**:
- **Description**: Detects the parasite *Trichomonas vaginalis*.
- **Sample**: Vaginal, urethral swab, or urine sample.
- **Purpose**: To diagnose the infection, which can cause symptoms such as discharge and itching, but can also be asymptomatic.
**Mycoplasma Genitalium and Ureaplasma**:
- **PCR Test**:
- **Description**: Detects the genetic material of *Mycoplasma genitalium* and *Ureaplasma urealyticum*.
- **Sample**: Urethral, vaginal swab, or urine sample.
- **Purpose**: To diagnose infections that can cause urethritis and other complications.
These tests are typically ordered based on the symptoms you are experiencing and the suspected conditions. The results, along with your medical history and physical examination, will help your doctor diagnose and treat any STDs you may have.
**Chlamydia and Gonorrhea**:
- **Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT)**:
- **Description**: Detects the genetic material of *Chlamydia trachomatis* and *Neisseria gonorrhoeae*.
- **Samples**: Urine or swab from the urethra, cervix, rectum, or throat.
- **Purpose**: To diagnose chlamydia and gonorrhea infections, which can cause symptoms such as painful urination and discharge, but can also be asymptomatic.
**Syphilis**:
- **Non-Treponemal Test (VDRL, RPR)**:
- **Description**: Detects non-specific antibodies produced in response to *Treponema pallidum* infection.
- **Sample**: Blood.
- **Purpose**: To detect active infection. It is used for initial screening.
- **Treponemal Test (FTA-ABS, TP-PA)**:
- **Description**: Detects specific antibodies against *Treponema pallidum*.
- **Sample**: Blood.
- **Purpose**: To confirm a positive syphilis diagnosis.
**HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)**:
- **Antibody/Antigen Test (ELISA, EIA)**:
- **Description**: Detects antibodies to HIV and the p24 antigen.
- **Sample**: Blood or saliva.
- **Purpose**: To diagnose HIV infection. A positive result is confirmed with an additional test (western blot or second-generation immunoassay).
- **Viral Load Test (PCR)**:
- **Description**: Measures the amount of HIV RNA in the blood.
- **Sample**: Blood.
- **Purpose**: To monitor disease progression and treatment effectiveness.
**Herpes Simplex (HSV-1 and HSV-2)**:
- **PCR Test**:
- **Description**: Detects the genetic material of the herpes simplex virus.
- **Sample**: Swab from a sore or blood sample.
- **Purpose**: To diagnose active herpes infections (genital and oral).
- **Antibody Test**:
- **Description**: Detects antibodies to HSV-1 and HSV-2.
- **Sample**: Blood.
- **Purpose**: To determine if a person has been exposed to the virus in the past.
**Human Papillomavirus (HPV)**:
- **HPV Test**:
- **Description**: Detects HPV DNA in cervical cells.
- **Sample**: Cervical swab (usually performed along with a Pap smear).
- **Purpose**: To diagnose high-risk HPV infections that can lead to cervical cancer.
**Hepatitis B and C**:
- **Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Test (HBsAg)**:
- **Description**: Detects the surface antigen of the hepatitis B virus.
- **Sample**: Blood.
- **Purpose**: To diagnose active hepatitis B infection.
- **Hepatitis C Antibody Test (anti-HCV)**:
- **Description**: Detects antibodies to the hepatitis C virus.
- **Sample**: Blood.
- **Purpose**: To diagnose hepatitis C infection. A positive result is confirmed with an HCV RNA test to detect active virus.
**Trichomoniasis**:
- **Culture or NAAT Test**:
- **Description**: Detects the parasite *Trichomonas vaginalis*.
- **Sample**: Vaginal, urethral swab, or urine sample.
- **Purpose**: To diagnose the infection, which can cause symptoms such as discharge and itching, but can also be asymptomatic.
**Mycoplasma Genitalium and Ureaplasma**:
- **PCR Test**:
- **Description**: Detects the genetic material of *Mycoplasma genitalium* and *Ureaplasma urealyticum*.
- **Sample**: Urethral, vaginal swab, or urine sample.
- **Purpose**: To diagnose infections that can cause urethritis and other complications.
These tests are typically ordered based on the symptoms you are experiencing and the suspected conditions. The results, along with your medical history and physical examination, will help your doctor diagnose and treat any STDs you may have.