Common Specimens Collected in Medical Labs: Blood, Urine, Feces, Saliva, and Specialized Samples
Summary
- Blood samples are the most commonly collected specimen in medical labs.
- Other common specimens include urine, feces, and saliva.
- Specialized tests may require more specific specimens, such as tissue samples or cerebrospinal fluid.
Blood Samples
One of the most common types of specimens collected in medical labs is blood samples. Blood can provide a wealth of information about a person's health, including their blood cell counts, cholesterol levels, and glucose levels. Blood samples are typically collected through a process called Venipuncture, where a needle is inserted into a vein to draw blood. The collected blood is then sent to the lab for analysis.
Types of Blood Tests
- Complete Blood Count (CBC)
- Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP)
- Lipid Panel
- Glucose Test
- C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Test
Urine Samples
Urine samples are another common specimen collected in medical labs. Urine can provide valuable information about kidney function, hydration levels, and possible infections. Urine samples are typically collected in a clean, sterile container and then sent to the lab for analysis. Urine tests can detect a variety of conditions, including urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and diabetes.
Types of Urine Tests
- Urinalysis
- Urine Culture
- Urinary Protein Test
Fecal Samples
Fecal samples, or stool samples, are commonly collected in medical labs to test for digestive issues, infections, or other health conditions. Patients are typically asked to provide a small sample of their stool in a clean container for analysis. Fecal tests can help diagnose conditions such as colorectal cancer, parasites, and gastrointestinal bleeding.
Types of Fecal Tests
- Fecal Occult Blood Test
- Fecal Immunochemical Test
- Stool Culture
Saliva Samples
Saliva samples are becoming more commonly collected in medical labs for certain types of testing. Saliva can provide information about hormone levels, DNA, and certain diseases. Saliva samples are typically collected by spitting into a tube or using a swab to collect saliva from the mouth. Saliva tests can be used to detect conditions such as HIV, influenza, and genetic disorders.
Types of Saliva Tests
- Salivary Hormone Test
- Saliva DNA Test
- Saliva Alcohol Test
Specialized Specimens
In addition to blood, urine, fecal, and saliva samples, medical labs may also collect more specialized specimens for certain tests. Some examples of specialized specimens include:
- Tissue Samples - collected through a biopsy and used to diagnose cancer or other diseases.
- Cerebrospinal Fluid - collected through a spinal tap and used to test for conditions affecting the brain and spinal cord.
- Swab Samples - used to collect samples from the throat, nose, or other areas for testing for infections.
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