Health Test Categories & Biomarkers

Blasts are immature blood cells, typically found in the bone marrow, where they develop into mature blood cells (such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets).

Types of blasts include myeloblasts, lymphoblasts, erythroblasts, and megakaryoblasts, which eventually mature into neutrophils, lymphocytes, red blood cells, and platelets, respectively.

In a healthy individual, very few, if any, blasts are present in the bloodstream, as they normally mature in the bone marrow before being released. However, blasts in the blood can be a sign of a serious condition, such as leukemia or other bone marrow disorders.

Abnormal Blast Levels

High Blast Levels - Causes

Leukemia: One of the most common causes of elevated blast levels is leukemia, a type of blood cancer. In leukemia, blasts fail to mature properly and proliferate uncontrollably.
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML): Characterized by an accumulation of myeloblasts.
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia: Marked by an excess of lymphoblasts.
Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS): These disorders are caused by poorly functioning bone marrow, leading to abnormal production of immature blood cells, including blasts.
Chronic myeloproliferative disorders: Certain conditions, like chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), can lead to an increased number of blasts in the later stages of the disease.
Bone marrow failure: Aplastic anemia or other conditions that cause bone marrow failure may lead to an abnormal increase in immature cells (blasts) as the bone marrow tries to compensate.
Infections or inflammation: In rare cases, severe infections or inflammatory conditions can cause elevated blast counts as the body ramps up the production of immune cells.
Chemotherapy or radiation: Certain cancer treatments can damage the bone marrow and cause the release of blasts into the bloodstream.

High Blast Levels - Symptoms

The symptoms associated with abnormal blast levels are usually linked to the underlying condition, such as leukemia or bone marrow disorders. Common symptoms include:

Fatigue and weakness: A lack of mature red blood cells (anemia) can cause persistent tiredness.
Frequent infections: Due to a deficiency of mature white blood cells, the immune system is compromised.
Easy bruising or bleeding: Low platelet levels lead to increased bruising, nosebleeds, or bleeding gums.
Bone pain: Bone marrow expansion due to the excessive production of blasts can lead to pain, particularly in the long bones.
Fever and night sweats: Common in cases of leukemia and other cancers.
Enlarged lymph nodes or spleen: In certain types of leukemia, organs like the spleen and lymph nodes may swell.

Fibrinogen is a protein in the blood that plays a key role in the blood clotting process. When there's an injury, fibrinogen is converted into fibrin threads, which help form a stable blood clot to prevent excessive bleeding. Low levels of fibrinogen are associated with bleeding most commonly related to liver disease or Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC). Elevated fibrinogen is associated with inflammation and an increased risk of atherosclerosis, the build-up of fats, cholesterol, and other substances in and on the artery walls.

The fibrinogen test measures the amount of fibrinogen in the blood and has the following clinical uses:

Diagnose suspected bleeding disorders or abnormal blood clotting.
Assess liver function as fibrinogen is produced by the liver.
Evaluate the body’s response to severe infections or inflammation.
Monitor fibrinogen levels in patients with chronic diseases or those undergoing anticoagulant therapy.

Abnormal Fibrinogen Levels

Low Fibrinogen Levels (Hypofibrinogenemia) - Causes

Liver disease: Since fibrinogen is produced in the liver, liver dysfunction can lead to low levels.
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC): A condition where small blood clots form throughout the body, using up clotting factors, including fibrinogen.
Congenital fibrinogen deficiency: Rare inherited conditions where fibrinogen levels are naturally low or absent.
Severe malnutrition: Can reduce fibrinogen production.

Low Fibrinogen Levels - Symptoms

Excessive bleeding: Bleeding that is difficult to stop, including nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or heavy menstrual bleeding.
Easy bruising: Increased tendency to bruise, often without obvious injury.
Delayed clotting: Cuts or injuries that take longer to stop bleeding.

High Fibrinogen Levels (Hyperfibrinogenemia) - Causes

Inflammatory conditions: Acute or chronic inflammation, such as in rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, can increase fibrinogen levels.
Infection: Bacterial, viral, or other infection types can elevate fibrinogen.
Cancer: Certain cancers, particularly those affecting the liver, kidneys, or blood, can cause high fibrinogen levels.
Cardiovascular diseases: Conditions like coronary artery disease or stroke are associated with elevated fibrinogen.

High Fibrinogen Levels - Symptoms

Blood clots: High fibrinogen levels can lead to an increased risk of blood clots, which may result in deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism, or stroke.
Heart disease: Elevated fibrinogen is associated with a higher risk of heart attack and other cardiovascular events.

Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the immune system, particularly in fighting off infections and diseases. They include T cells, B cells, and natural killer (NK) cells. T cells are involved in cell-mediated immunity, B cells produce antibodies, and NK cells destroy infected or cancerous cells.

The lymphocyte test reflects the lymphocytes as a percentage of the total white blood cell count. A lymphocyte test is typically part of a complete blood count (CBC) with differential, which measures the types and numbers of cells in the blood including red blood cells, white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets. The lymphocyte test, when viewed alongside the absolute lymphocyte count, provides important insights into the immune system's function. While similar, these tests provide different insights.

Lymphocyte (%) Test: This test measures the proportion of lymphocytes in relation to the total white blood cell (WBC) count. It is expressed as a percentage. The percentage alone doesn't give the full picture because it depends on the total WBC count.

Absolute Lymphocyte Count: This test measures the actual number of lymphocytes in a given volume of blood, usually per microliter (uL). It provides the total number of lymphocytes regardless of the WBC count.

Abnormal Lymphocyte Levels

Low Lymphocytes (Lymphocytopenia) - Causes

Severe infections: Especially those that overwhelm the immune system, like HIV/AIDS or tuberculosis.
Autoimmune disorders: Such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, where the body attacks its immune cells.
Bone marrow disorders: Including aplastic anemia or certain cancers like leukemia.
Chemotherapy or radiation therapy: Treatments that target rapidly dividing cells can lower lymphocyte counts.
Corticosteroid use: Medications like corticosteroids can reduce lymphocyte percentages by increasing neutrophil counts.
Chronic illness: Conditions like chronic renal disease may result in a lower percentage of lymphocytes.
Malnutrition: Deficiencies in essential nutrients can impair lymphocyte production.
Genetic conditions: Some inherited disorders can lead to low lymphocyte levels.
Stress: Conditions like acute stress, trauma, or surgery can elevate neutrophil counts, reducing the lymphocyte percentage.

Low Lymphocytes - Symptoms

Frequent infections: Increased susceptibility to infections, particularly viral, fungal, or opportunistic infections.
Fever: Recurrent or persistent fevers without a clear cause.
Unexplained fatigue: Due to chronic infections or immune system dysfunction.
Weight loss: Often associated with chronic infection or underlying disease.
Swollen lymph nodes or spleen: Particularly in infections or malignancies.
Delayed healing: Wounds may heal more slowly due to compromised immune function.

High Lymphocytes (Lymphocytosis) - Causes

Infections: Particularly viral infections like mononucleosis, cytomegalovirus (CMV), or hepatitis.
Chronic Inflammatory Conditions: Such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Certain Cancers: Including lymphocytic leukemia and lymphoma.
Autoimmune Disorders: Such as lupus.
Stress Responses: Acute stress, including surgery or trauma.
Smoking: Can cause elevated lymphocyte counts.

High Lymphocytes - Symptoms

Swollen lymph nodes: Due to the immune system's response to infection or inflammation.
Fatigue: A general feeling of tiredness or weakness.
Fever: Common in infections or malignancies.
Weight loss: Unexplained weight loss may occur in cases of chronic disease or cancer.
Night sweats: Often associated with lymphomas or chronic infections.
Recurring infections: Particularly viral infections.

Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell that play a role in the body's immune response, especially in allergic reactions and infections. The absolute eosinophil count measures the number of eosinophils in the blood. Abnormal levels of eosinophils, either high (eosinophilia) or low (eosinopenia), can indicate various health conditions.

Abnormal Eosinophil Levels

Low Eosinophils (Eosinopenia) - Causes

Acute infections: Particularly bacterial infections, where the body's immune response shifts, leading to reduced eosinophil levels.
Corticosteroid use: Medications like prednisone can lower eosinophil levels by suppressing the immune system.
Stress: Physical stress (e.g., trauma, surgery) or emotional stress can temporarily reduce eosinophil counts.
Cushing's syndrome: A condition caused by high cortisol levels, often from adrenal tumors or long-term corticosteroid use.
Severe illness: Conditions like sepsis or advanced stages of chronic diseases can cause eosinopenia.

Low Eosinophils - Symptoms

Often asymptomatic: Typically, low eosinophil levels do not cause specific symptoms.
Possible increased infection risk: There might be a higher susceptibility to infections, especially parasitic infections, although this is uncommon.
Symptoms of underlying conditions: Symptoms may reflect the underlying condition, such as stress or corticosteroid use.

Elevated Eosinophil Levels (Eosinophilia) - Causes

Allergic reactions: Common in conditions like asthma, hay fever, eczema, or drug allergies.
Parasitic infections: Often seen in infections caused by parasites such as roundworms, hookworms, or certain protozoa.
Autoimmune diseases: Conditions like eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) or systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
Gastrointestinal Disorders: Eosinophilic esophagitis or eosinophilic gastroenteritis.
Certain cancers: Some types of leukemia, lymphoma, or other cancers can cause eosinophilia.
Infections: Some viral and bacterial infections, particularly those that cause chronic inflammation.
Medications: Reaction to certain drugs, such as antibiotics or anticonvulsants.
Hypereosinophilic syndrome: A rare disorder where eosinophils are abnormally high without a known cause, leading to tissue damage.

Elevated Eosinophil Levels - Symptoms

Allergic reactions: Skin rashes, itching, hives, or other signs of allergies.
Respiratory symptoms: Wheezing, asthma, or shortness of breath in allergic respiratory conditions.
Gastrointestinal issues: Diarrhea, abdominal pain, or other symptoms related to parasitic infections or eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders.
Chronic fatigue: If eosinophilia is related to a chronic condition.

Basophils are a type of white blood cell involved in immune responses. They play a key role in fighting infections and responding to allergies and inflammation.

When exposed to allergens or germs, basophils release substances like histamine and heparin. These chemicals help widen blood vessels, make blood vessels leaky, and attract other immune cells to the area of infection or allergy. Various factors, including medications, pregnancy, and chronic stress can influence basophil levels.

This test looks at the basophils as a white blood cell count percentage.

Abnormal Basophil Levels

Low Basophils (Basopenia) - Causes

Acute infections: Particularly bacterial infections where other white blood cells are more active.
Severe allergic reactions: Anaphylaxis or severe allergies might temporarily lower basophil levels as they are rapidly utilized.
Hyperthyroidism: An overactive thyroid gland can lead to decreased basophil counts.
Stress: Physical or emotional stress, including after surgery or trauma.
Prolonged corticosteroid Use: Long-term use of corticosteroids can suppress basophil production.
Cushing’s syndrome: Excessive cortisol production due to Cushing’s syndrome.

Low Basophils - Symptoms

Increased infection risk: Though typically mild, low basophil levels might slightly raise the risk of infections.
Hyperthyroidism symptoms: Symptoms like rapid heart rate, anxiety, weight loss, and tremors.
Stress-related symptoms: Fatigue, irritability, or symptoms related to physical recovery post-surgery or trauma.

Elevated Basophils (Basophilia) - Causes

Allergic reactions: Conditions like asthma, hay fever, and allergic dermatitis can elevate basophil levels.
Chronic inflammatory diseases: Rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Infections: Some chronic infections, including tuberculosis or chickenpox.
Myeloproliferative disorders: Blood cancers like chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) or polycythemia vera.
Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid can sometimes cause elevated basophils.
Autoimmune diseases: Conditions like lupus may increase basophil counts.
Certain medications: Drugs that affect the immune system or blood cell production.

Elevated Basophils - Symptoms

Allergy symptoms: Itching, rash, hives, swelling, sneezing, or asthma-like symptoms due to histamine release.
Chronic inflammation: Joint pain, fatigue, or other symptoms related to chronic inflammatory or autoimmune diseases.
Symptoms of myeloproliferative disorders: Fatigue, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, or splenomegaly (enlarged spleen).
Hypothyroidism symptoms: Fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, dry skin, and hair loss.

Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell that plays a role in the immune system. They are involved in helping the body respond to allergies, parasitic infections, and certain other inflammatory conditions.

The eosinophil test reflects the count of eosinophils as a percentage of your total white blood cell count.

Abnormal Eosinophil Levels

Low Eosinophils (Eosinopenia) - Causes

Acute infections: Bacterial or viral infections can temporarily reduce eosinophil levels as the body mobilizes other immune cells.
Corticosteroid use: Long-term or high-dose use of corticosteroids can suppress eosinophil production.
Cushing’s syndrome: A condition where the body produces too much cortisol, leading to eosinopenia.
Stress: Severe physical or emotional stress can lower eosinophil counts.
Bone marrow disorders: Conditions that affect bone marrow function can lead to reduced production of eosinophils.

Low Eosinophils - Symptoms

Increased infection risk: Low eosinophil levels may slightly increase the risk of infections.
Fatigue: General tiredness, particularly if associated with a broader immune suppression.
Symptoms of underlying conditions: Symptoms related to Cushing’s syndrome, infections, or bone marrow disorders.

High Eosinophils (Eosinophilia) - Causes

Allergic reactions: Common causes include asthma, hay fever, eczema, and allergic rhinitis.
Parasitic infections: Especially those caused by worms like roundworms, hookworms, or flukes.
Autoimmune diseases: Conditions like eosinophilic esophagitis, Churg-Strauss syndrome, or lupus.
Certain cancers: Particularly blood-related cancers like Hodgkin's lymphoma or certain types of leukemia.
Drug reactions: Some medications, such as antibiotics or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can trigger eosinophilia.
Skin conditions: Disorders like dermatitis, psoriasis, or fungal infections.
Gastrointestinal disorders: Conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or eosinophilic gastroenteritis.

High Eosinophils - Symptoms

Respiratory issues: Wheezing, shortness of breath, or cough, particularly in cases of asthma or allergic reactions.
Skin rashes: Itchy, red, or inflamed skin, often associated with eczema or allergic reactions.
Abdominal pain: Discomfort or pain, especially if related to parasitic infections or gastrointestinal disorders.
Fever and fatigue: General symptoms that may accompany infections, autoimmune diseases, or cancers.
Weight loss: Unexplained weight loss, particularly in chronic conditions like cancers or autoimmune diseases.
Joint pain: Associated with autoimmune disorders.

C-reactive protein (CRP) is a substance the liver produces in response to inflammation. The High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) Test is a more precise version of the standard CRP test. It is designed to measure very low levels of CRP in the blood, which can indicate low-grade inflammation.

The hs-CRP test is primarily used to assess the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attack and stroke. Since low-grade inflammation plays a role in the development of atherosclerosis (the buildup of plaque in the arteries), measuring hs-CRP levels can help identify individuals at higher risk for these conditions, even if they appear otherwise healthy. It is also used to help monitor chronic inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or other autoimmune diseases.

Elevated hs-CRP Levels

Elevated hs-CRP - Causes

Infections: Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can cause inflammation, raising hs-CRP levels.
Chronic inflammatory diseases: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) often cause elevated hs-CRP.
Cardiovascular disease: Elevated hs-CRP is associated with an increased risk of heart disease and stroke, as it reflects inflammation in the arteries.
Metabolic syndrome: A cluster of conditions, including high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat, and abnormal cholesterol levels, can raise hs-CRP.
Obesity: Excess body fat, particularly abdominal fat, is associated with chronic low-grade inflammation, leading to elevated hs-CRP.
Diabetes: Poorly controlled diabetes can increase inflammation and hs-CRP levels.
Autoimmune diseases: Lupus or rheumatoid arthritis involves chronic inflammation, which elevates hs-CRP.
Chronic infections: Periodontal disease or chronic hepatitis can cause ongoing inflammation.
Smoking: Tobacco use is linked to increased inflammation and higher hs-CRP levels.
High blood pressure: Chronic hypertension can lead to arterial inflammation and elevated hs-CRP.

Elevated hs-CRP - Symptoms

Elevated hs-CRP itself does not cause symptoms. It is a marker of underlying inflammation, so any symptoms present would be related to the condition causing the inflammation. These symptoms might include:

Fever or chills: If inflammation is due to an infection.
Fatigue: Chronic inflammation or underlying autoimmune diseases.
Pain or discomfort: Depending on the location of inflammation, such as joint pain in arthritis or chest pain in cardiovascular conditions.
Swelling or redness: In response to localized inflammation, such as an injury or skin infection.

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