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:
EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid), DPA (Docosapentaenoic Acid), and DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) are fatty acids and essential nutrients that your body needs but can't produce on its own. They are found in fish oils, marine sources, and certain plants in smaller amounts. They can also be obtained through supplements. These fatty acids play a crucial role in maintaining cardiovascular health, reducing inflammation, and supporting brain function.
EPA+DPA+DHA is a blood test that measures the levels of three specific types of omega-3 fatty acids in your blood. They're primarily found in fatty fish, but can also be obtained through supplements.
Higher levels of EPA+DPA+DHA have been linked to several health benefits, including:
Low Levels of EPA, DPA, and DHA - Causes
Low Levels of EPA, DPA, and DHA - Symptoms
High Levels of EPA, DPA, and DHA - Causes
High Levels of EPA, DPA, and DHA - Symptoms
Linoleic Acid is an essential omega-6 fatty acid, crucial for maintaining the integrity of cell membranes, supporting skin health, and playing a role in inflammation and overall cellular function. Since the body cannot produce linoleic acid, it must be obtained from the diet.
Low Levels of Linoleic Acid - Causes
Low Levels of Linoleic Acid - Symptoms
High Levels of Linoleic Acid - Causes
High Levels of Linoleic Acid - Symptoms
The Omega-6/Omega-3 ratio refers to the balance between two essential fatty acids in the diet: omega-6 in vegetable oils and processed foods, and omega-3 in fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts. Maintaining a healthy balance between these fatty acids is important for overall health, particularly for reducing inflammation and heart disease risk. The ideal ratio is considered to be between 2:1 and 4:1 Omega-6 over Omega-3, although typical Western diets often exceed this range, leading to potential health issues.
This test calculates the ratio of omega-6 fatty acids to omega-3 fatty acids in your blood.
Low Ratio (Omega-6 Dominant) - Causes
Low Ratio - Symptoms
High Ratio (Omega-6 Dominant) - Causes
High Ratio (Omega-6 Dominant) - Signs & Symptoms
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for many bodily functions, including reducing inflammation, supporting brain function, and maintaining cardiovascular and eye health. There are three key omega-3s. Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA). These come mostly from fatty fish like salmon and sardines. The third, Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA), comes from plants like flaxseeds and walnuts. We can't make omega-3s ourselves, so we need to get them from food or supplements.
The Omega-3 Total Test measures the combined levels of all omega-3 fatty acids in the blood.
Key Points:
Causes
Symptoms
Causes
Symptoms
Omega-6s are polyunsaturated fats that affect inflammation, immunity, and cellular function. While omega-6 fatty acids are essential for health, an imbalance between omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids can lead to chronic inflammation and poor health. Omega-6 fatty acids include linoleic acid (LA) and arachidonic acid (AA), typically found in vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, and processed foods.
The Omega-6 Total Test measures the levels of omega-6 fatty acids in the blood.
Low Omega-6 Levels - Causes
Low Omega-6 Levels - Symptoms
High Omega-6 Levels - Causes
High Omega-6 Levels - 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