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.
This test measures the ratio of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) to creatinine in the blood. BUN comes from protein breakdown in the liver, and creatinine is a waste product from muscles. This ratio helps check kidney function.
Low BUN/Creatinine Ratio
A low Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) to Creatinine ratio can be caused by various factors, typically reflecting either low BUN or high creatinine. Common causes of each include:
Low BUN/Creatinine Ratio - Symptoms
Symptoms depend on the underlying cause but may include:
High BUN/Creatinine Ratio
A high Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) to Creatinine ratio can result from various factors, typically reflecting elevated BUN or low creatinine. Common causes of each include:
High BUN/Creatinine Ratio -Symptoms
Symptoms may start subtly and get worse as kidney function declines:
Calcium is a mineral essential for various bodily functions, with a significant role in bone and teeth formation, blood clotting, nerve signaling, and muscle function. Most of the body's calcium is stored in the bones. Calcium measurements are useful in diagnosing parathyroid disease, some bone disorders, and chronic renal disease.
Your healthcare provider may order a calcium test if you have a medical condition that may affect your calcium levels, such as:
Low Calcium - Symptoms
High Calcium - Symptoms
Severe Hypocalcemia: Very low levels of calcium in your blood can cause the following symptoms:
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a colorless, odorless gas. We produce CO2 as a normal part of metabolism and eliminate it when we exhale.
A CO2 blood test, often part of an electrolyte panel, helps doctors check if your body is balancing electrolytes properly.
Your doctor might order a CO2 blood test if you have symptoms like excessive vomiting or diarrhea, fatigue, headache, trouble breathing, or weakness.
Low CO2 Levels (Hypocapnia) - Causes
Low CO2 Levels - Symptoms
High CO2 Levels (Hypercapnia) - Causes
High CO2 Levels - Symptoms
Chloride is an essential electrolyte, a negatively charged ion, found in the body. It plays a crucial role in maintaining fluid balance, forming stomach acid for digestion, and assisting in the movement of fluids in and out of cells.
Chloride measurements are used in the diagnosis and treatment of electrolyte and metabolic disorders such as cystic fibrosis and diabetic acidosis. Your healthcare provider may also order a chloride blood test if you have symptoms of an acid or fluid imbalance, including:
Low Chloride Levels (Hypochloremia) - Causes
High Chloride Levels (Hyperchloremia)- Causes
Creatinine is a waste product made by muscles during everyday activities. The kidneys filter it out of the blood and excrete it in urine. If the kidneys aren’t working well, creatinine levels in the blood increase, indicating potential kidney problems.
The serum creatinine test can provide important information about kidney function. However, normal creatinine levels don’t always mean the kidneys are healthy.
Low Creatinine Levels - Causes
Low creatinine levels in a blood test are less common, often asymptomatic, and usually not critical but can indicate certain health issues:
Low Creatinine Levels - Symptoms
Elevated Creatinine - Causes
Elevated Creatinine - General Symptoms
Elevated Creatinine - Severe Symptoms
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
Small LDL particles are a subtype of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. These particles are smaller and denser than the typical LDL particles, LDL-P. Because of their size and density, small LDL particles are more likely to penetrate the walls of arteries, where they can get stuck, oxidize, and form plaques. This process increases the risk of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), which can lead to heart attacks and strokes.
This test quantifies Small LDL particle levels and provides insight into cholesterol management and CVD risk. The Small LDL-P marker is usually part of a lipoprotein fractionation NMR test.
Low Small LDL-P - Causes
Low levels of Small LDL-P are generally not concerning. Rather, they are likely a sign of heart health. However, if your levels are too low, it might be a sign that your body is struggling to get enough nutrients or having trouble processing fats properly. Remember, while it's called "bad cholesterol," your body still needs a certain amount to make hormones and keep your cells strong.
Low Small LDL-P Levels - Symptoms
Symptoms of low small LDL levels are not typically noticeable, However, if the low levels are due to malnutrition or poor lipid absorption, one might experience symptoms related to those conditions, such as fatigue, weight loss, or digestive issues.
High Small LDL - Causes
High Small LDL - Symptoms
Symptoms of high LDL levels are typically not noticeable on their own. Generally, they only become apparent as part of the broader effects of conditions like heart disease or stroke, which can result from long-term, untreated high cholesterol. These can include chest pain, shortness of breath, sudden numbness, or weakness in limbs.
Lipoprotein (a), or Lp (a), is one kind of LDL or low-density lipoprotein in your blood, with an extra protein called apolipoprotein(a) that makes it different. While Lp(a)'s role in our bodies is not completely understood, it is known to be involved in blood clotting and healing wounds and is thought to help move and use fats within the body.
LDLs (cholesterol or fats) can cause issues because they can make speed bumps of plaque, slowing down your blood's ability to flow through your arteries. Enough of these speed bumps can give you a blood-stopping blockage. Further, lipoprotein (a) makes your blood clot more and makes it harder for blood clots to break down, increasing blockage concerns. Inflammation from lipoprotein (a) makes it more likely that those speed bumps of plaque will break open, attracting more blood clots. Therefore, elevated Lp(a) levels can be a risk factor for heart disease.
While the amount of Lp(a) in your blood is mainly genetically determined, it is an important risk factor to understand. This test is used to assess coronary heart disease risk and identify lipid metabolism issues.
Elevated Lipoprotein (a) Levels - Causes
Elevated Lipoprotein (a) Levels - Symptoms
Elevated Lp(a) levels typically do not cause symptoms directly. However, they contribute to the development of cardiovascular diseases, which can manifest as:
Non-HDL Cholesterol represents the total cholesterol in your blood minus the HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol. It includes all the "bad" types of cholesterol that can contribute to plaque buildup in your arteries, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD).
This test is considered a comprehensive marker for cardiovascular risk and is useful for monitoring the efficacy of therapy or lifestyle changes.
Low Non-HDL Cholesterol - Causes & Symptoms
High Non-HDL Cholesterol - Causes
High Non-HDL Cholesterol - Symptoms
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in all cells of the body, essential for several functions such as cell structure, hormone production, vitamin D synthesis, and digestion of fats. However, excessive cholesterol increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.
The total cholesterol test measures the overall cholesterol in your blood, including LDL, HDL, and VLDL. It helps assess the risk of coronary artery disease and diagnose conditions like hyperlipoproteinemia, atherosclerosis, liver, and thyroid diseases.
Low Cholesterol - Causes
Low Cholesterol - Symptoms
High Cholesterol - Causes
High Cholesterol - Symptoms
Triglycerides are a type of fat found in your blood. They store excess energy from your diet and can be used for energy between meals. Elevated triglyceride levels can increase the risk of heart disease and other health issues.
This test is commonly included in a lipid panel and measures the level of triglycerides in the blood serum triglycerides.
Clinical Applications:
Low Triglycerides (Hypotriglyceridemia)
Low triglycerides usually don't cause noticeable symptoms. They are rarely a direct health concern but could indicate underlying issues.
High Triglyceride Levels (Hypertriglyceridemia) - Causes
High Triglyceride Levels (Hypertriglyceridemia) - Symptoms
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