The Male Comprehensive Panel is ideal for:
The Female Comprehensive Panel offers an in-depth look at essential health markers that can help identify early signs of chronic conditions and provide insight into your overall well-being. This panel covers key areas such as metabolic health, cardiovascular health, and hormone levels. This level of comprehensive testing is not always easy to obtain, as many doctors might only check these markers when health issues have already progressed. By being proactive with this panel, you and your healthcare provider can monitor critical health indicators and address potential concerns before they become more serious, giving you greater control over your long-term wellness.
We recommend completing the Female Comprehensive Panel at least yearly, if not every 6 months, to maintain a complete overview of your health and catch any potential issues early.
Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) is an enzyme primarily found in the liver, with smaller amounts in the kidneys, heart, and muscles. It plays a vital role in breaking down proteins and converting them into energy. ALT is released into the bloodstream when the liver is damaged or inflamed. Clinically, ALT is a key biomarker for liver health, as elevated levels often indicate liver injury or disease. Understanding ALT levels helps clinicians diagnose liver disorders, monitor disease progression, and guide treatment decisions.
ALT measurements are useful in diagnosing and managing liver diseases such as viral hepatitis and cirrhosis. ALT activity is generally lower than aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activity and is highest in the liver. Significant ALT elevations occur mainly in liver diseases. ALT is often measured with AST to determine if AST's source is the liver or heart. A normal ALT with elevated AST suggests cardiac disease, while slight ALT elevations can occur with extensive heart muscle damage.
Low ALT: Low ALT levels can result from chronic liver disease, malnutrition, advanced liver cirrhosis, severe vitamin B6 deficiency, or genetic disorders affecting ALT production. Although low ALT levels are less common, they can indicate significant liver damage and require further evaluation.
Symptoms of Low ALT Levels are less common and generally less concerning but can include:
High ALT: High ALT levels typically signal liver damage or injury, either acute or chronic. Common causes include hepatitis, fatty liver disease, and cirrhosis. Other causes include certain medications (statins, antibiotics, and OTC pain relievers), excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, metabolic disorders like diabetes, and toxin exposure.
ALT levels may also rise temporarily after strenuous exercise or muscle injury, though elevations are more specific to liver injury.
Identifying the cause of elevated ALT is crucial for proper management and treatment, including ruling out drug, alcohol, medication use, and toxin exposure.
Symptoms of Elevated ALT Levels often indicate liver damage or inflammation and can include:
Albumin is a protein in your blood that performs essential functions, such as maintaining the balance of fluids between blood vessels and tissues. It also helps transport various substances, including hormones, vitamins, and drugs and also supports tissue growth and healing.
The serum albumin test is a valuable tool in diagnosing and managing various health conditions, including liver and kidney diseases, nutritional deficiencies, and inflammatory disorders. Regular monitoring and appropriate medical guidance are essential to address any abnormalities effectively.
Low Blood Albumin Levels (Hypoalbuminemia) - Symptoms
Symptoms of high albumin levels are generally related to the underlying cause, such as liver, kidney, or heart issues, malnutrition or malabsorption issues, chronic inflammation or infection, or burns and severe injuries. Symptoms include:
High Blood Albumin Levels (Hyperalbuminemia) - Symptoms
Symptoms of high albumin levels are generally related to the underlying cause. Symptoms include:
The Albumin/Globulin Ratio is a calculated value obtained by dividing the level of albumin (a protein in the blood) by the level of globulin (another group of proteins in the blood). This ratio provides insights into various health conditions and is used for the following clinical purposes:
Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme found in various tissues, especially the liver, bile duct, bones, kidneys, and digestive system. It plays a role in the breakdown of proteins and is important for liver, bile duct, and bone health.
The ALP Test is used to help diagnose and monitor liver and bone disorders and assess treatment efficacy. Elevated levels may indicate liver or bone diseases, while decreased levels can suggest malnutrition or genetic conditions.
Low ALP Levels - Causes
Low ALP Levels - Symptoms
Low ALP levels do not usually cause symptoms but may indicate underlying conditions, such as:
High ALP Levels - Causes
High ALP levels are generally due to underlying conditions, such as:
(sarcoidosis), granulomatous disorders.
High ALP Levels - Symptoms
High (ALP) may not cause specific symptoms directly. However, the underlying conditions can cause various symptoms, depending on the cause.
AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) and SGOT (Serum Glutamic Oxaloacetic Transaminase) are terms used interchangeably to describe the same liver enzyme.
AST is widely distributed throughout the tissues with significant amounts in the heart and liver. Lesser amounts are found in skeletal muscles, kidneys, pancreas, spleen, lungs, and brain.
Clinically, AST testing plays a pivotal role in assessing liver and heart health. When these organs are damaged or inflamed, AST is released into the bloodstream, making it a valuable biomarker for detecting conditions such as liver disease, myocardial infarction (heart attack), and muscle injury. It is commonly performed alongside the Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) test because both enzymes are released into the bloodstream when liver cells are damaged.
Mild elevations in liver enzymes like AST are common in clinical practice. The clinician should evaluate potential causes as they may be early indicators of liver damage. Mild elevations may be caused by:
Arachidonic acid (AA) is an Omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid found in certain foods that plays a key role in the inflammatory response and cellular signaling. It's a component of cell membranes and serves as a precursor for various signaling molecules, including those involved in inflammation and immune responses. While AA is essential for bodily functions, imbalances can lead to health issues.
Low AA Levels - Causes
Low AA Levels - Signs & Symptoms
High AA Levels - Causes
High AA Levels - Signs & Symptoms
The Arachidonic Acid/EPA Ratio is a measure that compares the levels of arachidonic acid (AA), an omega-6 fatty acid, to eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), an omega-3 fatty acid, in the body. Arachidonic acid is involved in inflammation, while EPA has anti-inflammatory properties. The ratio helps assess inflammation levels and overall cardiovascular health.
Low Ratio - Causes: A lower ratio may suggest a stronger anti-inflammatory profile, often seen in individuals with high omega-3 intake. A low ratio is usually caused by a diet rich in omega-3, fish oil supplementation, or low levels of dietary omega-6 fats.
Low Ratio - Symptoms: A low ratio may cause few symptoms but could indicate appropriate inflammatory responses and heart health.
High Ratio - Causes: This often indicates a higher level of inflammation, as arachidonic acid is associated with pro-inflammatory processes. A high ratio is usually caused by a diet high in omega-6 fats (such as processed foods and vegetable oils), a low intake of omega-3 (like fatty fish 9 or fish oil supplements), or chronic inflammatory conditions.
High Ratio - Symptoms
Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) is a long-chain omega-3 fatty acid that is a critical component of the brain, eyes, and other tissues throughout the body. DHA plays a key role in brain development and function, especially in infants and young children. It is also important for maintaining heart health, reducing inflammation, and supporting overall well-being.
The DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) test measures the level of DHA in the blood. This test is often part of a broader fatty acid profile or Omega-3 Index, which assesses the balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in the body. The test is used to assess cognitive health, cardiovascular health, prenatal and infant health as well as inflammation and nutritional balance.
Low DHA Levels - Causes
Low Levels - Symptoms
High DHA Levels - Causes
High DHA Levels - Symptoms
Docosapentaenoic Acid (DPA) is a long-chain omega-3 fatty acid found in fish oil, marine sources, and to some extent in the human body. DPA is often considered a beneficial nutrient, playing a role in various physiological processes, such as:
Low Levels of DPA - Causes
Low Levels of DPA - Symptoms
High Levels of DPA - Causes
High Levels of DPA - Symptoms
There are typically no direct symptoms of high DPA levels, as it is generally considered beneficial. However, excessive omega-3 intake can potentially lead to issues such as excessive bleeding, as omega-3s can thin the blood.
Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) is an omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid primarily found in cold-water fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines. EPA plays a crucial role in reducing inflammation, supporting heart health, and regulating mood. It is often associated with its benefits in lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease, reducing triglycerides, and supporting mental health.
While optimal EPA levels may vary among individuals, some studies suggest that higher levels of EPA in the blood are associated with greater cardiovascular protection.
Low EPA Levels - Causes
Low EPA Levels - Signs & Symptoms
High EPA Levels - Causes
High EPA Levels - Signs & Symptoms
Apo B, or apolipoprotein B, is a protein that carries cholesterol from the liver to cells throughout the body. However, it only transports lipids with negative health effects; low-density lipoprotein (LDL), very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), and others. It does not transport good cholesterol, high-density lipoproteins (HDL).
High levels of ApoB indicate an increased number of atherogenic particles, which can contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, leading to cardiovascular diseases (CVD) such as heart attacks and strokes. As such, Apo B is considered to be a powerful indicator of coronary artery disease (CAD). In some patients with CAD, APO B is elevated even in the presence of normal LDL cholesterol.
The Apo B or Apolipoprotein B-100 test is a blood test that can tell you about your risk for cardiovascular (heart and blood vessel) disease. Some healthcare providers believe an Apo B test is more accurate than a lipid panel (which measures all those cholesterol types) to estimate cardiovascular disease risk.
Low ApoB Levels - Causes
Low ApoB Levels - Symptoms
High ApoB Levels - Causes
High ApoB Levels - Symptoms
The Cholesterol to HDL Cholesterol Ratio (Chol/HDL-C Ratio) is a calculated value obtained by dividing the total cholesterol level by the HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol level. This ratio is used to assess the risk of cardiovascular disease. A higher ratio indicates a greater risk of heart disease.
Elevated Cholesterol/HDL Ratio - Causes
Elevated Cholesterol/HDL Ratio - Symptoms
High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is known as the "good" cholesterol because it helps remove other forms of cholesterol. Because it removes low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol from the bloodstream and transports it to the liver for excretion it plays a protective role against cardiovascular disease.
The HDL cholesterol test measures the amount of HDL in the blood. It is part of a comprehensive lipid panel. HDL levels are used to assess the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attack and stroke. Higher levels of HDL are generally protective, while lower levels increase the risk. The test is also used to monitor the effectiveness of lifestyle changes or medications aimed at increasing HDL levels.
Low HDL Levels - Causes
Low HDL Levels - Symptoms
High HDL Levels - Considered heart-healthy
Large HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) refers to a subtype of HDL cholesterol, often categorized based on particle size. HDL is known as 'good cholesterol' because it helps remove other forms of cholesterol from the bloodstream, transporting it to the liver for excretion.
The classification into 'large' HDL is based on the size of these particles. Large HDL molecules can transport greater quantities of bad cholesterol to the liver, making them more beneficial to cardiovascular health. In contrast, smaller particles do not provide added cardiovascular protection.
This test helps assess cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in patients with intermediate or high risk based on traditional or emerging risk factors, including:
This test is also used to assess a patient's response to lipid-lowering therapy.
Low Large HDL Particle Levels - Causes
Low levels may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, as there is less HDL available to remove cholesterol from the arteries.
Low Large HDL Particle Levels - Symptoms
Elevated Large HDL Particle Levels - Causes
Elevated levels are typically not a cause for concern. While having high HDL levels is generally considered beneficial, excessively high levels may be associated with certain health issues.
Elevated Large HDL Particle Levels - Symptoms
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 - Causes
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:
Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) is a glycoprotein produced mainly in the liver that binds to sex hormones, specifically testosterone and estrogen, in the bloodstream. SHBG controls the amount of testosterone and estrogen that is available for the body's tissues to use. When hormones are bound to SHBG, they are inactive and cannot be used by cells. The levels of SHBG can influence the balance of available sex hormones, affecting many bodily processes.
The Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) test measures the level of SHBG in your blood. This test is often used to help diagnose conditions related to abnormal levels of sex hormones, such as testosterone and estrogen. It is particularly useful when total hormone levels are normal, but symptoms of hormone imbalance are present.
Low SHBG levels have been associated with an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic disorders including metabolic syndrome, as well as some cancers and arthritis in both genders.
Low SHBG - Causes
Low SHBG - Symptoms
Often, higher levels of SHBG are associated with positive health outcomes. For example, elevated SHBG levels have been linked to a lower risk of type 2 diabetes and prostate cancer. However, they are also linked to a higher risk of bone loss and fractures, hypogonadism in males, and hepatic cirrhosis. In some cases, it may be caused by hyperthyroidism, as thyroid hormone stimulates the production and release of SHBG.
High SHBG - Causes
High SHBG - Symptoms
Testosterone is a key male sex hormone and an androgenic steroid. It's essential for both men and women, influencing libido, muscle mass, bone density, red blood cell production, mood, and overall well-being. In men, it also drives the development of masculine characteristics such as deeper voice, facial and body hair, and a more muscular body shape.
A total testosterone test measures the hormone's total amount in the blood, aiding in the evaluation of sexual dysfunction, infertility, and endocrine disorders. The total testosterone test measures two forms of testosterone, bound and free. Both of these forms decline with age.
Low Testosterone in Men
Low Testosterone in Women
High Testosterone in Men - Physical Symptoms
High Testosterone in Men - Behavioral Symptoms
High Testosterone in Men - Other Symptoms
High Testosterone in Women
Free Testosterone is the portion of testosterone that is not bound to proteins in the blood, making it biologically active and available to interact with cells and tissues. While most testosterone in the blood is bound to sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) or albumin, only a small fraction is "free" and active, which plays a crucial role in various bodily functions.
The Free Testosterone test measures the amount of unbound testosterone in the bloodstream. This test is often used when total testosterone levels are borderline or do not match clinical symptoms. It's beneficial in evaluating conditions related to hormone imbalance, such as hypogonadism in men or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women.
Causes
Symptoms
Causes
Symptoms
MCHC (Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration) measures the average hemoglobin concentration in a given volume of red blood cells. Hemoglobin is a protein carried by RBC that plays a vital role in supporting overall health. It delivers oxygen to organs and tissues throughout the body. It also transports carbon dioxide back to the lungs where it can be exhaled.
MCHC is generally not interpreted separately from other blood values. To be a meaningful diagnostic test, it must be compared with RBC indices and measurements on a CBC to diagnose anemia and determine the underlying cause.
Low MCHC (Hypochromic Anemia)- Causes
Low MCHC - Symptoms
Low MCHC - Progressing Symptoms
High MCHC Levels (Hyperchromic Anemia) - Causes
High MCHC Levels - Symptoms
MCV (mean corpuscular volume) measures the average size of your red blood cells. It's included in a common blood test called a complete blood count (CBC). Considered alongside the results of other tests, an MCV blood test can provide insights into how your red blood cells are functioning, helping your healthcare provider determine if you have anemia, liver disease, or other conditions.
Low MCV (Microcytosis) - Causes
Low MCV - Symptoms
High MCV (Macrocytosis) - Causes
High MCV - Symptoms
Monocytes are a type of white blood cell that serves as a crucial component of your immune system. They play a vital role in fighting infections, removing dead or damaged tissues, and regulating immune responses.
The monocyte test reflects the monocyte count as a percentage of all the white blood cells.
Low Monocytes (Monocytopenia) - Causes
Low Monocytes - Symptoms
High Monocytes (Monocytosis) - Causes
High Monocytes - Symptoms
Neutrophils are the most common type of white blood cell. Like security guards, they patrol the bloodstream and act like the immune system's first responders whenever an infection or injury occurs. They are always ready to fight off invaders like bacteria and fungi, engulfing the pathogen or releasing chemicals to neutralize or eliminate threats to keep you healthy.
When you’re sick or injured, doctors often measure your neutrophil count with a complete blood count (CBC) test to see how your body is responding. This test measures the percentage of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, in your blood. It's often part of a complete blood count (CBC) and helps detect infections, inflammation, and other health conditions by showing the proportion of neutrophils compared to other white blood cells.
Low Neutrophil Levels (Neutropenia)
Neutropenia is the result of your body destroying neutrophils before your bone marrow can create more.
Causes of a low neutrophil count include infections (hepatitis, tuberculosis, sepsis, Lyme disease, chemotherapy, leukemia, vitamin deficiencies (vitamin B12, folate, copper), or autoimmune disease (Crohn's disease, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis).
Neutropenia does not cause any specific symptoms.
High Neutrophil Levels (Neutrophilia)
In many cases, it's normal for your body to temporarily produce more neutrophils to help you heal, especially with a bone fracture, injury, severe burn, or surgery. However, neutrophils also increase due to infections, inflammation, certain types of leukemia, stress, or reactions to certain drugs. When the number of neutrophils doesn't return to normal after repairing an injury, it can pose a health risk.
Neutrophilia does not cause any specific symptoms.
Red blood cells carry oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body and take carbon dioxide back to your lungs to be exhaled. This test measures the number of red blood cells in your blood. The RBC count is a key indicator of your overall blood health and can help diagnose various conditions, including anemia or polycythemia.
Elevated RBCs (erythrocytosis or polycythemia): Increased red blood cell (RBC) mass is reflected in elevated hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. Erythrocytosis is associated with an increased risk of thrombotic events due to blood hyperviscosity and can potentially progress to leukemia.
Causes
A low red blood cell count typically indicates iron deficiency anemia, but may be caused by the following:
Symptoms
Causes
Symptoms