ANY LAB TEST NOW
23016 Sandalfoot Plaza Dr.
Boca Raton, FL33428
Phone: 561-237-5009
Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm
Sat: 9am-2pm

Coming from I-95:

• Take Exit 44 Palmetto Park Road and go West.
• Keep driving until you reach the intersection with State Road 7 (also called 441)
• Take at turn left and drive 1.2 miles South.
• Take a turn left directly after the Chevron gas station and before McDonald’s at the “Sandalfoot Square” sign.
• You are now in the strip mall called “Sandalfoot Square”.
• This is a U-shaped strip mall and ANY LAB TEST NOW® is located in the North wing.

Directions: Coming from Coral Springs:

• Go North on State Road 7 (also called 441).
• After Hillsboro Blvd (This is the intersection where the big super Walmart is located)
  continue to go North for 1.3 miles and you will see a McDonald’s arch
  and a “Sandalfoot Square” sign.
• Take a turn right directly after McDonald’s at the “Sandalfoot Square” sign.
• You are now in the strip mall called “Sandalfoot Square”.
• This is a U-shaped strip mall and ANY LAB TEST NOW® is located in the North wing.

Founded in 1992 by David Perlow, M.D., ANY LAB TEST NOW® provides the public with best-in-class lab services.

ANY LAB TEST NOW offers fast, affordable, convenient, reliable lab testing. All of our tests are 100% confidential and only you see the results. No doctor referrals or insurance needed. No unwanted questions. Just the tests you need when you need it without delay.

ANY LAB TEST NOW is revolutionizing the health care industry by offering direct-to-consumer laboratory testing services that provide a convenient, confidential, reliable and affordable way for consumers to take control of their health care costs and provide them complete access to their health information.

ANY LAB TEST NOW:

• is a healthcare lab testing facility that provides thousands of medical lab tests to consumers and employers in a professional, convenient and cost-effective way.
• guarantee you will be seen in 15 minutes or less with most results back in 24 to 48 hrs!!!
• delivers the same high quality tests as your doctor or hospital would order.
• no doctors visits required to order your lab tests
• You DON’T need a prescription, just stop in at the lab for your test and your secure and confidential lab test results can be sent to you via an online look-up.
• We use only federally & state certified clinics to process your lab tests
• staff is fully trained, experienced and certified and is always willing to answer all your questions and provide you with best service possible.

Extremely fast meets extremely high accuracy.

From our brand new facility, we’ve partnered
with the largest CLIA-certified diagnostic, DNA and toxicology
laboratories in the country to bring you the highest-quality tests
with the most accurate results – which you can usually receive within 48 hours.

Now you can order affordable blood tests and receive your results confidentially, without visiting your doctor. We deliver the same high quality tests as your doctor would order. To make sure that our tests are of extreme high quality and deliver the most accurate results, we are affiliated with major fully accredited Medical Reference Lab in the U.S.

Come to our clean collection facility where our friendly and professional staff will help you with all your questions and provide you the best service possible.

Our tests are extremely affordable with no hidden charges, taxes or draw fees for blood. You receive most results fast and within 24 hrs. You can decide how you want to receive them. We can either call you and you come to pick them up or we can email, mail or fax them to you.

There are thousands of medical lab tests. But there’s only one way that’s the most
efficient way for any consumer or employer in the area to go.
And that’s right here. At ANY LAB TEST NOW.

Biography of Henrica Hopman, Owner:

While the last two decades have taken Henrica Hopman from the Netherlands to Washington to Boca Raton, one thing in her life has been constant – her passion for medical science.

In 1988, Henrica began working as a Research Technician at the Netherlands’ University Medical Center in the Oncology department. Her various research projects involved the influence of cytostatics on the immune system and the use of immunotherapy as a new treatment for cancer.

In 1994, Henrica was promoted to Lead Technician, where she would conduct crucial research on renal cell carcinoma and on the in vitro activation of the immune system from patients with melanomas.

Ten years later, Henrica found herself beginning a new adventure – coming to the United States – as her husband experienced a job transfer to Mount Vernon, Washington.

In 2009, Henrica drew upon her extensive experience to open Any Lab Test Now, her own retail lab testing facility, right here in Boca Raton. Henrica and her outstanding staff provide a full range of clinical tests, including testing for cholesterol, diabetes, liver, thyroid, cancer and more. Henrica prides herself on providing high-quality lab tests within 15 minutes or less, regardless of whether someone has insurance or not.

Henrica Hopman was born and raised in the southeast part of the Netherlands, where she received her Bachelor degree in Biochemistry from that country’s Interstudy University.

ANY LAB TEST NOW
23016 Sandalfoot Plaza Dr.
Boca Raton, FL33428
Phone: 561-237-5009
Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm
Sat: 9am-2pm

The peace of mind that your tests are completely confidential.

Just the way it should be.

When you order your tests through ANY LAB TEST NOW®, you can breathe easy knowing all communications regarding your results are confidential and HIPAA compliant.

Once your results are ready, you choose how you want to receive them. We can mail or fax them to you. Or you can come pick them up. No questions asked. Above all, we’ll take every step along the way to ensure your privacy is maintained anonymously.

After all, they’re your results. Only you should see them.

Measures the amount of abnormal antibodies that hurt the body’s tissues.

Elevated levels may indicate rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, scleroderma, polymyositis, thyroid disease or liver disease.

When to Get Tested?
When you have diarrhea that lasts more than a few days and/or have blood or mucus in your loose stools

Sample Required?
A fresh stool sample or one that has been placed in a transport medium (a collection vial containing a preservative)

Test Preparation Needed?
None

How is it used?
A stool culture is used, often along with other tests such as an O&P test that detects parasites in the stool and/or a Clostridium difficile toxin test, to help determine the cause of your prolonged diarrhea.

When is it ordered?
Stool cultures may be ordered when you have had diarrhea for several days and when you have blood and/or mucus in your loose stools. This is especially true when you have eaten food or drunk fluids that you or your doctor suspect may have been contaminated with a pathogenic bacteria, such as undercooked meat or raw eggs, or the same food that has made others ill. Recent travel outside the United States may also suggest possible food contamination. When your doctor suspects that you may have a parasitic infection, he may also order an O&P test. When your diarrhea begins during or after antibiotic treatment, then your doctor may order a Clostridium difficile toxin test along with a stool culture.

If you have had a previous pathogenic bacterial infection of your gastrointestinal tract and have been treated for it or gotten better on your own, your doctor may order one or more stool cultures to verify that the pathogenic bacteria are no longer detectable. This can be important because in some cases people can become carriers of the bacteria. Carriers are not ill themselves, but they can infect other people.

What does the test result mean?
Results are frequently reported out with the name of the pathogenic bacteria and whether it was isolated (found in your stool sample) or not isolated (that bacteria was not found). Negative results usually reflect the fact that the stool culture was checked for pathogens at several intervals and none were found (not isolated). A report may say something like: no Campylobacter isolated, no Salmonella or Shigella isolated, etc. If the culture is negative for the major pathogens, then it is likely that your diarrhea is due to another cause. It is also possible that the pathogenic bacteria are present in the gastrointestinal tract but were not found in this particular stool sample. If your doctor suspects this is the case and your symptoms continue, he may order another stool culture.

If your stool culture is positive for pathogenic bacteria, then that is the most likely cause of your prolonged diarrhea. The stool culture report may state Salmonella enteritidis isolated (which means that you have an infection caused by this particular pathogenic bacterium). Most diarrheal disease is caused by a single pathogen, but it is possible to have an infection with more than one.

Elevated results could indicate iron deficiency.

Low results could indicate hemochromatosis, malnutrition, inflammation, liver disease or kidney disease.

An electrocardiogram (or EKG) is a test that checks for problems with the electrical activity of your heart. An EKG translates the heart’s electrical activity into line tracings on a long strip of paper. The spikes and dips in the line tracings are called ‘waves’.

The heart is a pump made up of four chambers. The two upper chambers are called atria, and the two lower chambers are called ventricles. We each have a natural electrical system within our bodies that causes the heart muscle to contract as well as pump blood through the heart, to the lungs, and then throughout the rest of the body.

Why Doctors Order an EKG Test

An EKG (sometimes referred to as an ‘ECG’) is done to:

• Check the heart’s electrical activity.
• Find the cause of unexplained chest pain, which could be caused by a heart attack, inflammation of the sac surrounding the heart (pericarditis), or angina.
• Find the cause of symptoms of heart disease, such as shortness of breath, dizziness, fainting, or rapid, irregular heartbeats (palpitations).
• Find out if the walls of the heart chambers are too thick (hypertrophied).
• Check how well medicines are working and whether they are causing side effects that affect the heart.
• Check how well mechanical devices that are implanted in the heart, such as pacemakers, are working to control a normal heartbeat.
• Check the health of the heart when other diseases or conditions are present, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, cigarette smoking, diabetes, or a family history of early heart disease.

How To Prepare

Many medications can change the results of this test. It is imperative that you tell your doctor about all the nonprescription and prescription medications you take. If you take heart medication(s), your doctor will tell you how to take your medicines before you have this test done.

You must remove all jewelry from your neck, arms, and wrists. Men are usually bare-chested during the test. Women may often wear a bra, T-shirt, or gown. If you are wearing stockings, you should take them off. You can request a paper gown to cover yourself during the EKG.

How It Is Done

An EKG is usually done by a Medical Assistant, and the EKG results are interpreted by your doctor, such as: an internist, family medicine doctor, electro-physiologist, cardiologist, anesthesiologist, or surgeon.

First, you will lie on an exam table. Electrodes will be placed on specific areas of your chest, arms and legs (which are cleaned and may be need to be shaved to provide a clean, smooth surface to attach the electrode discs).

A small disposable electrode will be attached at points on your chest, arms, and legs. These electrodes are hooked to a machine that traces your heart activity onto a paper. You will be asked to lie very still and breathe normally during the test. Once the test has begun, you should not speak at all for the duration of the test.

Estradiol- Estradiol levels are used in evaluating ovarian function. Its main use has been in the differential diagnosis of amenorrhea – for example, to determine whether the cause is menopause, pregnancy, or a medical problem. In assisted reproductive technology (ART), serial measurements are used to monitor follicle development in the ovary in the days prior to in vitro fertilization.

Progesterone – To help determine the cause of infertility, track ovulation, help diagnose an ectopic or failing pregnancy, monitor the health of a pregnancy, and help diagnose the cause of abnormal uterine bleeding.

FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) – In women, FSH and LH levels can help to differentiate between primary ovarian failure (failure of the ovaries themselves) and secondary ovarian failure (failure of the ovaries due to disorders of either the pituitary or the hypothalamus).

LH – In women and men, LH (and FSH) tests are ordered as part of the workup of infertility, suspected pituitary problems, or gonadal disorders when a woman is having trouble getting pregnant or when pituitary, ovary, or gonadal disorders are suspected.

Testosterone- In Women, testosterone levels are used to explain the appearance of masculine features, inability to get pregnant, and as a marker for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).

Comprehensive Infertility Panel Price – $ 297

Why Do I Need It?:
There are a lot of reasons why you might need a drug test. Perhaps your employer has a drug testing policy, or maybe you’re being considered for a job and a pre-employment drug test is needed? Maybe your parents want to test you or you just want to know?
Get tested. It’s quick and easy and accurate.

Saliva Drug Test Details:

High results are indicated by the cut-off levels set by SAMHSA. If the drug metabolite level is higher than the cut-off level, the test result is positive. Below is an example of a 5 panel Saliva drug test and how long the drug can stay in your system.

Your Teen’s Drug Test is Coming Back Clean. Yet, You Suspect Drug Use. It May Be “Fake Marijuana.”

“Fake marijuana” is a mix of organic plant materials mixed with dangerous synthetic compounds, including JWH-018 and JWH-073, and is commonly described as an herbal incense product. It is most commonly known as K2 or Spice, though it is also known by other street names that contain similar compounds.

Synthetic cannabinoids are illegal. People use this substance to avoid positive, standard drug test results, and for the high they experience after ingestion.

The synthetic drug compounds found in K2 act on the same receptors in the brain as natural marijuana (THC), yet have opposite symptoms such as aggressiveness, irritability and a fast heart rate.

It is potentially more dangerous with several adverse side effects. The American Association of Poison Control Centers issued a warning about the dangers of synthetic marijuana products. Most importantly, these compounds are not detected in a standard drug test.

Do you suspect your teenager is using drugs yet their drug test comes back clean? Are you having a problem with increased safety incidents and are struggling to find the reason why? ANY LAB TEST NOW offers two drug screen options for synthetic cannabinoid use, both in a rapid or lab-based screen.

What’s All the Buzz About?

This Synthetic Marijuana Rapid Urine Drug Screen will screen for the presence or absence of two variations of the designer drug known on the streets as “Spice” or “K2.” This test will indicate the presence or absence or the two compounds commonly used in synthetic marijuana. The screen can be completed in less than 8 minutes. Spice and K2 are known as “fake marijuana,” but they will not be detected in a standard drug test.

“Fake Marijuana” Hits The Streets

Call (561) 237-5009 and the 8 minutes rapid test and you will be in and out in 15 minutes. Get $10 off if you make an appointment here.

Are you having safe sex? If you answered “Sometimes” or “I think so,” consider these scary statistics: The Center for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that 19 million new cases of sexually transmitted diseases occur each year in the U.S., and almost half are among 15- to 24-year-olds. Shocked? It gets worse. More than 50% of people worldwide will become infected with an STD in their lifetime. If you still think it can’t happen to you, here are 10 things you need to know about STDs…


1. Women are more susceptible to STDs than men…
It has nothing to do with promiscuity. Women are more vulnerable to infection than men because of our anatomy. It’s easier for men to transmit infections to women than vice versa. STDs are also more difficult to detect in women.


2. There are more than 25 known STDs…
The most common STDs are chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis B, genital herpes, HIV, human papillomavirus (HPV), syphilis, pubic lice/crabs, and trichomoniasis. Since 1980, more than eight new STDs, including HIV/AIDS, have been identified. Infections can be viral, bacterial or parasitic.


3. STDs can be transmitted through oral sex…
Contrary to popular belief, having oral sex doesn’t mean you’re playing it safe. In fact, having unprotected oral sex puts you at especially high risk for gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, and hepatitis B. Always use a condom when having oral sex with a new partner. Female condoms can also help reduce the risk of STDs, and should be used when receiving oral sex.

STDs can be contracted through vaginal, anal and oral sex. They travel from person to person through semen, vaginal fluids and blood. Some STDs can also enter the body through tiny cuts or tears in the mouth, genitals or anus.


4. STDs are treatable, but not all are curable…
Bacterial STDs like chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis can be cured. Viral STDs like herpes, hepatitis B, HIV, HPV, and genital warts are incurable, though they can be managed.

Living with an STD affects not only your physical health, it affects you emotionally, too. It can also take a toll on your romantic relationships.

If you have an STD, tell any potential partners before having sexual contact with them. Be straightforward and honest. In some states, it’s a criminal offense if you don’t! And before you have sex with a new partner, you should both get tested.


5. Some STDs are asymptomatic…
Since certain diseases have no visible symptoms, you may not know that you or your partner has been infected. Chlamydia, for example, is especially asymptomatic. Likewise, it can take up to 10 years or more for women to develop the symptoms of HIV. The time it takes for an STD to appear depends on the type of STD contracted.

STD symptoms are often similar to those caused by other infections, so it’s easy to mistake them for conditions like yeast infections or urinary tract infections. Remember: You don’t need to see an STD’s symptoms for it to be contagious.

Because many STDs are asymptomatic and women don’t get treated, it’s hard to know how many people become infected each year.


6. Untreated STDs can have serious health consequences…
Women suffer more frequent and serious health complications from STDs than men do. And by the time women notice symptoms or see a doctor, complications from the untreated infection may already have jeopardized their health.

STDs can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), cervical cancer, liver disease, and infertility. Some can be passed from mother to baby before, during or after birth. Pregnant women with STDs are also at a higher risk for tubal pregnancies, miscarriages and premature delivery. In a worst-case scenario, untreated syphilis can lead to death in women.


7. Chlamydia is the most commonly reported infectious disease in the U.S…
The CDC estimates that 2.8 million new cases of chlamydia are contracted each year. Most go undiagnosed. Chlamydia infects the cervix, making adolescent girls most susceptible since their cervix is changing during puberty.

The majority of women with chlamydia have no symptoms. Left untreated, chlamydia can cause PID, ectopic pregnancy and infertility. Fortunately, if detected early, chlamydia can be easily cured with antibiotics since it is a bacterial infection.


8. Most doctors don’t routinely screen for STDs…
The American Social Health Association reports that less than one-third of physicians routinely screen patients for STDs. And don’t assume a normal Pap test gives you a clean bill of health. A Pap smear only detects changes in cervical cells; it doesn’t test for specific diseases. However, an abnormal pap smear may indicate HPV, and further tests may be done. Ask your doctor what your exam will entail and request relevant testing if you’re sexually active.


9. Condoms aren’t a 100% guarantee against STDs…
They’re not fail safe, but aside from abstinence, condoms are the best and only protection against STDs. Use a new latex condom every time you have oral, anal or vaginal sex with a new partner outside of a monogamous relationship.


10. About 50% of sexually active women acquire genital HPV infection at some point in their lives…
Out of 100 strains of HPV, about 30 are sexually transmitted. About 10 are “high risk” and can lead to cervical cancer. “Low risk” types may cause genital warts.

Most will never know they have it because the immune system can eliminate the less aggressive forms of HPV on its own. However, more aggressive strains of HPV will stick around and cause multiple health problems, like cervical cancer. The only way to detect HPV is through a Pap smear, where pre-cancerous changes in the cervix are visible.

In June 2006, the FDA approved Gardasil, a cervical cancer vaccine for women between the ages of 9 and 26 years old. Talk to your doctor about whether you would benefit from vaccination.

Did You Know?

• 50% of all men and 75% of all women with Chlamydia do not even know that they are infected and show no visible signs?
• If you or your partner has one STD, your chances of contracting ANOTHER STD are greatly increased?
• 30% of people infected with Syphilis show NO signs or symptoms?
• Genital Herpes will infect 25% of ALL young adults in the United States by the age of 35?

The purposes of prenatal tests are to screen for and diagnose any existing problems that may affect the mother’s or baby’s health, identify and address problems as they arise, and assess the risk of a baby having a chromosomal or genetic abnormality. The tests generally require just a small sample of easily obtained blood, urine, or cervical cells.

Pre-Conception (Pre-Pregnancy)

When a woman is considering having a child, she and the prospective father should consult with their health care provider(s). Based on the family and medical histories of the biological parents, certain tests may be recommended to help ensure as healthy a pregnancy as possible. These tests include genetic testing for certain inherited diseases and disorders to understand the risk of having a child with one of these and tests to detect any infections or conditions that the mother-to-be may have that could put her or her unborn baby at risk.

Testing that may be offered to the woman and her partner to evaluate the risk of inherited diseases are:

Genetic testing for inherited diseases
Genetic testing for hemoglobin disorders
Cystic fibrosis carrier testing

Testing that may be recommended to the woman either when she is considering a pregnancy or at one of her first prenatal visits include:

Immunity to rubella (German measles) test
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) antibody test
Gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis tests
Pap smear
Hepatitis B screening

Women with special health considerations like diabetes or high blood pressure (hypertension) should have those under control before getting pregnant. Women with type 1 or type 2 diabetes are strongly encouraged to have an A1c test at least 3 to 4 months before they hope to conceive. This is because diabetes-related birth defects happen early in the pregnancy, well before most prenatal visits. Having this test helps the woman identify a safe time to try to become pregnant. Conceiving when blood sugar is well controlled (and maintaining tight control during the first trimester) helps prevent birth defects and miscarriages.

Two important hormones, estradiol and progesterone, are made by the ovaries in a cyclical fashion and help to maintain a normal menstrual cycle. When a woman approaches menopause, cyclical hormone production from the ovaries stops, leading to a cessation in monthly menstrual periods.

The menopausal change is slow and usually takes two to five years to complete. During the so-called peri-menopausal period, hormone levels can fluctuate from high to low from one month to the next. Some months a woman may have a period but then go for several months without a period. It is important to note that during this time, a woman may still be able to get pregnant.

Menopause happens naturally as a woman ages. However, menopause can also occur for other reasons, including the removal of the ovaries for cancer or other medical reasons like endometriosis, excessive exposure to radiation or chemotherapy, pituitary gland disorders, or very poor health.

Symptoms
A woman’s body goes through several changes during menopause. Some of the more common symptoms of menopause occur when estrogen levels start to drop. Women may experience:

hot flashes;
rapid mood swings ranging from depression to euphoria;
decreased libido and sex drive;
increased frequency or sudden urge to urinate;
vaginal dryness with pain during intercourse;
excessive bone loss, leading to a higher incidence of fractures of the hip and spinal column; and a
higher risk for heart disease (because the levels of LDL “bad” cholesterol in the blood may rise).

Tests
A woman of menopausal age might have the following tests ordered:

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH): to learn whether she is approaching or has gone through menopause;
Estradiol: to measure ovarian production of estrogen and to evaluate whether the menstrual cycle is normal and if she is fertile;
Thyroid function testing (free T4 and TSH): to test the function of the thyroid gland, which can slow with age;
Lipid profile: to test for triglycerides and the good (HDL) and bad (LDL) cholesterol levels in the blood to assess for cardiovascular disease;
Complete blood count (CBC): to determine the adequacy of the number of red and white blood cells in the blood;
Chemistry tests for liver and kidney function: to see if she can tolerate hormone replacement therapy; and
Blood pressure check.
If a woman has risk factors or symptoms of diabetes, her doctor may also order a glucose test to learn whether the sugar levels in the blood are too high.

As estrogen levels drop, bones can get weaker. For guidelines on bone density testing, see the National Osteoporosis Foundation.

Breast cancer can develop at any age, but the risk of developing it increases as women get older. While 5% to 10% of breast cancers are related to an inherited defect in one of two breast cancer genes (BRCA-1 or BRCA-2), the majority of cases develop for reasons we do not yet understand. As a general rule, those at higher risk of developing breast cancer include women whose close relatives have had the disease, women who have had a previous breast cancer in the other breast, women who have not had children, and women who had their first child after the age of 30. Each breast cancer will have its own characteristics. Some are slow growing; others can be aggressive. Some are sensitive to the hormones estrogen and progesterone, while others can over-express proteins. The cancer’s characteristics can affect treatment choices and the potential for the cancer to recur.

Breast cancer may be divided into three stages, reflecting the extent to which the cancer has spread in the body.

Early stage breast cancer that is confined to its original location is known as noninvasive cancer. If the cancer is confined to the ducts, it is called ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), and if it is confined to the lobules, it is called lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS). At this stage, the cancer cannot be felt as a lump in the breast, but DCIS can sometimes be detected by mammography.
Invasive stage breast cancer is characterized by a spread of the cancer beyond the ducts or lobules and into the surrounding areas of breast tissue. At this stage, the cancer may be detected through a breast self-exam, by a clinical breast exam performed by a health care professional, or by mammography.
Metastatic stage breast cancer is cancer that has spread (metastasized) to other areas of the body, including nearby lymph nodes. At this stage, treatment requires the combined effort of several specialists, including surgeons, oncologists, and radiologists.

Signs and Symptoms
It is important to remember that most lumps found in the breast are not cancerous but are benign and that the symptoms and signs associated with breast cancer may be due to other causes. Signs and symptoms include:

Mass or lump in the breast
Breast skin dimpling, reddening, or thickening
Nipple retraction
Breast swelling or pain
Nipple pain and/or discharge
Swelling or lumps in adjacent underarm lymph node

Iron and Vitamin Deficiencies
Iron deficiency anemia is the most common of the anemias and is usually due to bleeding. In women, iron deficiency may be due to heavy menstrual periods, but in older women and in men, the bleeding is usually from disease of the intestines. In children and in pregnant women, the body needs more iron, and iron deficiency may be due simply to not eating enough iron in the diet. Iron deficiency may also result from some extreme diets. Treatment of iron deficiency usually involves iron supplements. In older women and in men, there is usually also some further testing to determine the reasons for the abnormal blood loss.

Pregnant and nursing women frequently develop this deficiency since the baby requires large amounts of iron for growth. Lack of iron can lead to low birth weight babies and premature delivery. Pre-pregnant and pregnant women are routinely given iron supplements to prevent these complications. Newborns who are nursing from deficient mothers tend to have iron deficiency anemia as well.

Blood tests may show a normal or low hemoglobin, decreased iron, low ferritin, and abnormal red blood cell indices. The total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) or transferrin will be increased. The ferritin test is considered to be the most specific for identifying iron deficiency anemia, unless infection or inflammation are present.

Vitamin B12 deficiency is less common than iron deficiency and is usually not due to dietary deficiency of vitamin B12. The most common cause is a disease called pernicious anemia, in which the body stops making a substance (called “intrinsic factor”) that is needed to absorb vitamin B12 from the diet. Vitamin B12 deficiency can also cause nerve problems, often causing numbness and tingling that start first in the hands and feet. Hemoglobin is low, but red blood cells are abnormally large.

Folic acid deficiency can cause the same pattern of changes in hemoglobin and red cell indices as does vitamin B12 deficiency. Folic acid is found in many foods, especially in green, leafy vegetables. Folic acid is also added to most grain products in the United States so that deficiency in folic acid is rarely seen in the U.S. today. During pregnancy, however, there is an increased need for folic acid so deficiency can develop during this time. This is especially dangerous because deficiency in folic acid can cause problems in the development of the brain and spinal cord of the baby. Pregnant women usually need folic acid supplements.

Aplastic Anemias
Aplastic anemia is a rare disease, caused by a decrease in the number of blood cells produced due to bone marrow failure. Symptoms of aplastic anemia include prolonged bleeding and the frequent appearance of bruises due to decreased platelets, pale skin color and fatigue from decreased hemoglobin, and increased number and severity of infections due to a low white blood cell count. The differential white blood count shows a decrease in all types of cells (pancytopenia). A bone marrow aspiration will show a decrease in the number of mature cells. Treatment depends on the cause. Blood transfusions and a bone marrow transplant may be needed in severe cases.

How is it used?
Vitamin D blood tests are used to determine if bone weakness, bone malformation, or abnormal metabolism of calcium (reflected by abnormal calcium, phosphorus or PTH blood tests) is occurring as a result of a deficiency or excess of vitamin D.

Since vitamin D is fat-soluble and is absorbed from the intestine like a fat, vitamin D blood tests are sometimes used to monitor individuals with diseases that interfere with fat absorption, such as cystic fibrosis and Crohn’s disease, to assure that they have adequate amounts of vitamin D. Vitamin D blood tests also are used to determine effectiveness of treatment when vitamin D, calcium, phosphorus, and/or magnesium supplementation is prescribed.

When is it ordered?
Either calcidiol or calcitriol tests may be ordered when a patient has an abnormal blood calcium, phosphorus, and/or magnesium level or evidence of bone disorders.

If calcium is low or the patient has symptoms of vitamin D deficiency, such as bone malformation in children (rickets) and bone weakness, softness, or fracture in adults (osteomalacia), the calcidiol test usually is ordered to identify a possible deficiency in vitamin D.

If calcium is high or the patient has a disease that might produce excess amounts of calcitriol, such as sarcoidosis or some forms of lymphoma, the calcitriol test usually is ordered.

Vitamin D blood tests also may be used to help diagnose or monitor problems with parathyroid gland functioning since parathyroid hormone is essential for vitamin D activation. When vitamin D, calcium, phosphorus, or magnesium supplementation is necessary, vitamin D levels are sometimes measured to monitor treatment effectiveness.

What does the test result mean?
NOTE: A standard reference range is not available for this blood test. Because reference values are dependent on many factors, including patient age, gender, sample population, and test method, numeric test results have different meanings in different testing labs. Your lab report should include the specific reference range for your test. Lab Tests Online strongly recommends that you discuss your blood test results with your doctor. For more information on reference ranges, please read Reference Ranges and What They Mean.

Low blood levels of calcidiol may mean that you are not getting enough exposure to sunlight or enough dietary vitamin D to meet your body?s demand; that there is a problem with its absorption from the intestines; or that enough is not being converted to calcidiol in the liver (which means that it is not making it into the bloodstream). Occasionally, drugs used to treat seizures, particularly phenytoin (Dilantin), can interfere with the liver?s production of calcidiol.

High levels of calcidiol usually reflect excess supplementation from vitamin pills or other nutritional supplements.

Low levels of calcitriol are often seen in kidney disease and are one of the earliest changes to occur in persons with early kidney failure.
High levels of calcitriol may occur when there is excess parathryoid hormone or when there are diseases, such as sarcoidosis or some lymphomas, that can make calcitriol outside of the kidneys.

Is there anything else I should know?
High levels of vitamin D and calcium can lead to the calcification and damage of organs, such as the kidneys, as the body tries to lower blood calcium levels by depositing calcium phosphate compounds into the organs.

If magnesium levels are low, they can cause a low calcium level that is resistant to vitamin D and parathyroid hormone regulation. It may be necessary to supplement both magnesium and calcium to regain normal function.

Acute hepatitis C virus infection is a short-term illness that occurs within the first 6 months after someone is exposed to the hepatitis C virus. For most people, acute infection leads to chronic infection. Chronic hepatitis C virus infection is a long-term illness that occurs when the hepatitis C virus remains in a person’s body. Hepatitis C virus infection can last a lifetime and lead to serious liver problems, including cirrhosis (scarring of the liver) or liver cancer.

Statistics C

In 2006, there were an estimated 19,000 new hepatitis C virus infections in the United States. However, the official number of reported hepatitis C cases is much lower. Many people who are infected never have symptoms and therefore never come to the attention of medical or public health officials. An estimated 3.2 million persons in the United States have chronic hepatitis C virus infection. Most people do not know they are infected because they don’t look or feel sick. Approximately 75%–85% of people who become infected with hepatitis C virus develop chronic infection.

Transmission/Exposure C

Hepatitis C is spread when blood from a person infected with the hepatitis C virus enters the body of someone who is not infected. Today, most people become infected with the hepatitis C virus by sharing needles or other equipment to inject drugs. Before 1992, when widespread screening of the blood supply began in the United States, hepatitis C was also commonly spread through blood transfusions and organ transplants.

People can become infected with the hepatitis C virus during such activities as:

* Sharing needles, syringes, or other equipment to inject drugs
* Needlestick injuries in healthcare settings
* Being born to a mother who has hepatitis C
Less commonly, a person can also get hepatitis C virus infection through:

* Sharing personal care items that may have come in contact with another person’s blood, such as razors or toothbrushes
* Having sexual contact with a person infected with the hepatitis C virus Hepatitis C is spread when blood from a person infected with the hepatitis C virus enters the body of someone who is not infected.

Symptoms

Approximately 70%–80% of people with acute hepatitis C do not have any symptoms. Some people, however, can have mild to severe symptoms soon after being infected, including:

* Fever
* Fatigue
* Loss of appetite
* Nausea
* Vomiting
* Abdominal pain
* Dark urine
* Clay-colored bowel movements
* Joint pain
* Jaundice (yellow color in the skin or eyes)

Tests

Several different blood tests are used to test for hepatitis C. A doctor may order just one or a combination of these tests. Typically, a person will first get a screening test that will show whether he or she has developed antibodies to the hepatitis C virus. (An antibody is a substance found in the blood that the body produces in response to a virus.) Having a positive antibody test means that a person was exposed to the virus at some time in his or her life. If the antibody test is positive, a doctor will most likely order a second test to confirm whether the virus is still present in the person’s bloodstream.

The following are behaviors that increase your chances of getting HIV. If you answer yes to any of them, you should definitely get an HIV test. If you continue with any of these behaviors, you should be tested every year. Talk to a health care provider about an HIV testing schedule that is right for you.

* Have you injected drugs or steroids or shared equipment (such as needles, syringes, works) with others?

* Have you had unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex with men who have sex with men, multiple partners, or anonymous partners?

* Have you exchanged sex for drugs or money?

* Have you been diagnosed with or treated for hepatitis, tuberculosis (TB), or a sexually transmitted disease (STD), like syphilis?

* Have you had unprotected sex with someone who could answer yes to any of the above questions?

If you have had sex with someone whose history of sex partners and/or drug use is unknown to you or if you or your partner has had many sex partners, then you have more of a chance of being infected with HIV. Both you and your new partner should get tested for HIV, and learn the results, before having sex for the first time.

For women who plan to become pregnant, testing is even more important. If a woman is infected with HIV, medical care and certain drugs given during pregnancy can lower the chance of passing HIV to her baby. All women who are pregnant should be tested during each pregnancy.

Gonorrhea is a very common infectious disease. CDC estimates that more than 700,000 persons in the U.S. get new gonorrheal infections each year. Only about half of these infections are reported to CDC. In 2006, 358,366 cases of gonorrhea were reported to CDC. In the period from 1975 to 1997, the national gonorrhea rate declined, following the implementation of the national gonorrhea control program in the mid-1970s. After several years of stable gonorrhea rates, however, the national gonorrhea rate increased for the second consecutive year. In 2006, the rate of reported gonorrheal infections was 120.9 per 100,000 persons.

Gonorrhea is spread through contact with the penis, vagina, mouth, or anus. Ejaculation does not have to occur for gonorrhea to be transmitted or acquired. Gonorrhea can also be spread from mother to baby during delivery.

People who have had gonorrhea and received treatment may get infected again if they have sexual contact with a person infected with gonorrhea.

Any sexually active person can be infected with gonorrhea. In the United States, the highest reported rates of infection are among sexually active teenagers, young adults, and African Americans.

Some men with gonorrhea may have no symptoms at all. However, some men have signs or symptoms that appear two to five days after infection; symptoms can take as long as 30 days to appear. Symptoms and signs include a burning sensation when urinating, or a white, yellow, or green discharge from the penis. Sometimes men with gonorrhea get painful or swollen testicles.

In women, the symptoms of gonorrhea are often mild, but most women who are infected have no symptoms. Even when a woman has symptoms, they can be so non-specific as to be mistaken for a bladder or vaginal infection. The initial symptoms and signs in women include a painful or burning sensation when urinating, increased vaginal discharge, or vaginal bleeding between periods. Women with gonorrhea are at risk of developing serious complications from the infection, regardless of the presence or severity of symptoms.

Symptoms of rectal infection in both men and women may include discharge, anal itching, soreness, bleeding, or painful bowel movements. Rectal infection also may cause no symptoms. Infections in the throat may cause a sore throat but usually causes no symptoms.

Untreated gonorrhea can cause serious and permanent health problems in both women and men. In women, gonorrhea is a common cause of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). About one million women each year in the United States develop PID. The symptoms may be quite mild or can be very severe and can include abdominal pain and fever. PID can lead to internal abscesses (pus-filled “pockets” that are hard to cure) and long-lasting, chronic pelvic pain. PID can damage the fallopian tubes enough to cause infertility or increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancy is a life-threatening condition in which a fertilized egg grows outside the uterus, usually in a fallopian tube.

In men, gonorrhea can cause epididymitis, a painful condition of the ducts attached to the testicles that may lead to infertility if left untreated.

Gonorrhea can spread to the blood or joints. This condition can be life threatening. In addition, people with gonorrhea can more easily contract HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. HIV-infected people with gonorrhea can transmit HIV more easily to someone else than if they did not have gonorrhea.

If a pregnant woman has gonorrhea, she may give the infection to her baby as the baby passes through the birth canal during delivery. This can cause blindness, joint infection, or a life-threatening blood infection in the baby. Treatment of gonorrhea as soon as it is detected in pregnant women will reduce the risk of these complications. Pregnant women should consult a health care provider for appropriate examination, testing, and treatment, as necessary.

Several laboratory tests are available to diagnose gonorrhea. A doctor or nurse can obtain a sample for testing from the parts of the body likely to be infected (cervix, urethra, rectum, or throat) and send the sample to a laboratory for analysis. Gonorrhea that is present in the cervix or urethra can be diagnosed in a laboratory by testing a urine or blood sample. A quick laboratory test for gonorrhea that can be done in some clinics or doctor’s offices is a Gram stain. A Gram stain of a sample from a urethra or a cervix allows the doctor to see the gonorrhea bacterium under a microscope. This test works better for men than for women.

Several antibiotics can successfully cure gonorrhea in adolescents and adults. However, drug-resistant strains of gonorrhea are increasing in many areas of the world, including the United States, and successful treatment of gonorrhea is becoming more difficult. Because many people with gonorrhea also have chlamydia, another STD, antibiotics for both infections are usually given together. Persons with gonorrhea should be tested for other STDs.

It is important to take all of the medication prescribed to cure gonorrhea. Although medication will stop the infection, it will not repair any permanent damage done by the disease. People who have had gonorrhea and have been treated can get the disease again if they have sexual contact with persons infected with gonorrhea. If a person’s symptoms continue even after receiving treatment, he or she should return to a doctor to be reevaluated.

The surest way to avoid transmission of STDs is to abstain from sexual intercourse, or to be in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested and is known to be uninfected.

Latex condoms, when used consistently and correctly, can reduce the risk of transmission of gonorrhea.

Any genital symptoms such as discharge or burning during urination or unusual sore or rash should be a signal to stop having sex and to see a doctor immediately. If a person has been diagnosed and treated for gonorrhea, he or she should notify all recent sex partners so they can see a health care provider and be treated. This will reduce the risk that the sex partners will develop serious complications from gonorrhea and will also reduce the person’s risk of becoming re-infected. The person and all of his or her sex partners must avoid sex until they have completed their treatment for gonorrhea.

Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by the bacterium, Chlamydia trachomatis, which can damage a woman’s reproductive organs. Even though symptoms of chlamydia are usually mild or absent, serious complications that cause irreversible damage, including infertility, can occur “silently” before a woman ever recognizes a problem. Chlamydia also can cause discharge from the penis of an infected man.

Chlamydia is the most frequently reported bacterial sexually transmitted disease in the United States. In 2006, 1,030,911 chlamydial infections were reported to CDC from 50 states and the District of Columbia. Under-reporting is substantial because most people with chlamydia are not aware of their infections and do not seek testing. Also, testing is not often done if patients are treated for their symptoms. An estimated 2,291,000 non-institutionalized U.S. civilians ages 14-39 are infected with Chlamydia based on the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Women are frequently re-infected if their sex partners are not treated.

Chlamydia can be transmitted during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Chlamydia can also be passed from an infected mother to her baby during vaginal childbirth.

Any sexually active person can be infected with chlamydia. The greater the number of sex partners, the greater the risk of infection. Because the cervix (opening to the uterus) of teenage girls and young women is not fully matured and is probably more susceptible to infection, they are at particularly high risk for infection if sexually active. Since chlamydia can be transmitted by oral or anal sex, men who have sex with men are also at risk for chlamydial infection.

Chlamydia is known as a “silent” disease because about three quarters of infected women and about half of infected men have no symptoms. If symptoms do occur, they usually appear within 1 to 3 weeks after exposure.

In women, the bacteria initially infect the cervix and the urethra (urine canal). Women who have symptoms might have an abnormal vaginal discharge or a burning sensation when urinating. When the infection spreads from the cervix to the fallopian tubes (tubes that carry fertilized eggs from the ovaries to the uterus), some women still have no signs or symptoms; others have lower abdominal pain, low back pain, nausea, fever, pain during intercourse, or bleeding between menstrual periods. Chlamydial infection of the cervix can spread to the rectum.

Men with signs or symptoms might have a discharge from their penis or a burning sensation when urinating. Men might also have burning and itching around the opening of the penis. Pain and swelling in the testicles are uncommon.

Men or women who have receptive anal intercourse may acquire chlamydial infection in the rectum, which can cause rectal pain, discharge, or bleeding. Chlamydia can also be found in the throats of women and men having oral sex with an infected partner.

If untreated, chlamydial infections can progress to serious reproductive and other health problems with both short-term and long-term consequences. Like the disease itself, the damage that chlamydia causes is often “silent.”

In women, untreated infection can spread into the uterus or fallopian tubes and cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). This happens in up to 40 percent of women with untreated chlamydia. PID can cause permanent damage to the fallopian tubes, uterus, and surrounding tissues. The damage can lead to chronic pelvic pain, infertility, and potentially fatal ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy outside the uterus). Women infected with chlamydia are up to five times more likely to become infected with HIV, if exposed.

To help prevent the serious consequences of chlamydia, screening at least annually for chlamydia is recommended for all sexually active women age 25 years and younger. An annual screening test also is recommended for older women with risk factors for chlamydia (a new sex partner or multiple sex partners). All pregnant women should have a screening test for chlamydia.

Complications among men are rare. Infection sometimes spreads to the epididymis (the tube that carries sperm from the testis), causing pain, fever, and, rarely, sterility.

Rarely, genital chlamydial infection can cause arthritis that can be accompanied by skin lesions and inflammation of the eye and urethra (Reiter’s syndrome).

In pregnant women, there is some evidence that untreated chlamydial infections can lead to premature delivery. Babies who are born to infected mothers can get chlamydial infections in their eyes and respiratory tracts. Chlamydia is a leading cause of early infant pneumonia and conjunctivitis (pink eye) in newborns.

There are laboratory tests to diagnose chlamydia. Some can be performed on blood or urine, other tests require that a specimen be collected from a site such as the penis or cervix.

Chlamydia can be easily treated and cured with antibiotics. A single dose of azithromycin or a week of doxycycline (twice daily) are the most commonly used treatments. HIV-positive persons with chlamydia should receive the same treatment as those who are HIV negative.

All sex partners should be evaluated, tested, and treated. Persons with chlamydia should abstain from sexual intercourse until they and their sex partners have completed treatment, otherwise re-infection is possible.

Women whose sex partners have not been appropriately treated are at high risk for re-infection. Having multiple infections increases a woman’s risk of serious reproductive health complications, including infertility. Retesting should be encouraged for women three to four months after treatment. This is especially true if a woman does not know if her sex partner received treatment.

The surest way to avoid transmission of STDs is to abstain from sexual contact, or to be in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested and is known to be uninfected.

Latex male condoms, when used consistently and correctly, can reduce the risk of transmission of chlamydia.

CDC recommends yearly chlamydia testing of all sexually active women age 25 or younger, older women with risk factors for chlamydial infections (those who have a new sex partner or multiple sex partners), and all pregnant women. An appropriate sexual risk assessment by a health care provider should always be conducted and may indicate more frequent screening for some women.

Any genital symptoms such as an unusual sore, discharge with odor, burning during urination, or bleeding between menstrual cycles could mean an STD infection. If a woman has any of these symptoms, she should stop having sex and consult a health care provider immediately. Treating STDs early can prevent PID. Women who are told they have an STD and are treated for it should notify all of their recent sex partners (sex partners within the preceding 60 days) so they can see a health care provider and be evaluated for STDs. Sexual activity should not resume until all sex partners have been examined and, if necessary, treated.

Testosterone testing is used to diagnose several conditions in men, women, and boys. These conditions include:

delayed or precocious (early) puberty in boys;
decreased sex drive in men and women;
erectile dysfunction in men;
infertility in men and women;
testicular tumors in men;
hypothalamus or pituitary disorders; and
hirsutism and virilization in girls and women.

When is it ordered?

In males, the test is ordered, often along with the FSH and LH tests, if puberty is delayed or slow in developing. Although there are differences from individual to individual as to when puberty begins, generally by the age of 10 years, there are hormonal and physical manifestations of the onset of puberty in males. Some symptoms of delayed puberty may include:

Delayed development of muscle mass
Lack of deepening of the voice or growth of body hair
Slow or delayed growth of testicles and penis

A delay can occur if the testes do not produce enough testosterone or if the pituitary does not produce enough LH. The test also can be ordered if a young boy seems to be undergoing a very early (precocious) puberty with obvious secondary sex characteristics. Causes of precocious puberty in boys, due to increased testosterone, include various tumors and congenital adrenal hyperplasia.

In men, the test may be ordered when infertility is suspected or if the patient has a decreased sex drive or erectile dysfunction, all of which can result from low testosterone levels. Some other symptoms include lack of beard and body hair, decreased muscle mass, and development of breast tissue (gynecomastia).

Increased testosterone levels in males can indicate:

testicular tumors
adrenal tumors that are producing testosterone
use of androgens (also called anabolic steroids)
early puberty of unknown cause in boys
hyperthyroidism
congenital adrenal hyperplasia

Outline

• Introduction
• DHEA and Cancer
• The Anti-Obesity Factor
• DHEA and Glucose Metabolism
• DHEA and Appetite
• DHEA and Aging
• Enhancing Brain Function
• DHEA and Immune Function
• DHEA: The Buffering Steroid?
• Dosage
• Conclusion
• Regulatory Difficulties
• References
• Additional Information

I. Introduction
Dehydroepiandrosterone (pronounced dee-hi-dro-epp-ee-ann-dro-stehr-own), or DHEA as it is more often called, is a steroid hormone produced in the adrenal gland. It is the most abundant steroid in the bloodstream and is present at even higher levels in brain tissue. DHEA levels are known to drop precipitously with age, falling 90% from age 20 to age 90. DHEA is known to be a precursor to the numerous steroid sex hormones (including estrogen and testosterone) which serve well-known functions, but the specific biological role of DHEA itself is not so well understood. It is difficult for researchers to separate the effects of DHEA from those of the primary sex steroids into which it is metabolized. The apparent lack of any direct hormone action for DHEA has prompted the suggestion that it may serve the role of a “buffering hormone” which would alter the state-dependency of other steroid hormones. Although the specific mechanisms of action for DHEA are only partially understood, supplemental DHEA has been shown to have anti-aging, anti-obesity and anti-cancer influences. In addition, it is known to stabilize nerve-cell growth and is being tested in Alzheimer’s patients.
Our understanding of the specific mechanisms of DHEA in metabolism was advanced by the publication of The Biologic Role of Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), edited by Mohammed Kalimi and William Regelson [1990]. This book presents 24 chapters from scientists around the world who are conducting DHEA research. The breadth of the work is impressive. As Drs. Regelson, Kalimi and Loria stated in their introductory remarks, “DHEA modulates diabetes, obesity, carcinogenesis, tumor growth, neurite outgrowth, virus and bacterial infection, stress, pregnancy, hypertension, collagen and skin integrity, fatigue, depression, memory and immune responses.”
The introductory chapter, by the editors and Dr. R. Loria, briefly reviews DHEA’s biochemistry, endocrinology, and potential clinical uses. The chapter contends that DHEA is perhaps the most significant endocrine biomarker known, and further postulates that all of the steroid’s effects may be explained by its action as a precursor hormone which provides “a host of steroid progeny with which to maintain the broad balance of host response related to species and individual survival.”

II. DHEA and Cancer
Early reports from England [Bulbrook, 1962, 1971] suggested that DHEA was abnormally low in women who developed breast cancer, even as much as nine years prior to the onset or diagnosis of the disease. Of the 5000 women followed in the study, 27 developed cancer. Most of the 27 had abnormally low levels of DHEA. If low DHEA levels contributed to breast cancer, might the opposite be true? Many years later, Dr. Arthur Schwartz of Temple University found that supplemental DHEA significantly protected cell cultures from the toxicity of carcinogens. Cell cultures usually respond to powerful carcinogens with mutations (changes in DNA), transformations (changes in cell appearance), and a high rate of cell death. But when Schwartz added DHEA along with the carcinogen, all three of these effects were significantly diminished.
Subsequent studies [Schwartz, 1979] identified powerful protective effects of supplemented DHEA for breast-cancer-prone mice. The results of the experiment were clear after eight months. The control animals were “developing cancer left and right” while the DHEA-augmented animals had no tumors. In two later studies with different strains of mice, Schwartz found 75% and 100% reductions in tumor incidence at eight months of age and 50% and 75% reductions at 15 months of age [Schwartz, 1981; 1984]. DHEA has demonstrated protective effects for cancers of the skin, lungs, bowel, breast and liver. According to Dr. Regelson, “Whenever it has been tested in a model of carcinogenesis and tumor induction, DHEA has preventative effects.” Although DHEA is now being tested in human cancer, it is still too early to know whether the successes achieved in animals will be realized in humans.

III. The Anti-Obesity Factor

At about the same time that Schwartz was investigating the anti-cancer properties of DHEA, Dr. Terrence T. Yen was studying the effect of DHEA on genetically obese mice. Although the DHEA-treated mice ate normally, they remained thin — and they lived longer than control mice. This “leanness” effect was also conspicuously noted by Dr. Schwartz. In another experiment, Dr. M. P. Cleary found that even middle-aged obese rats lost weight when fed DHEA-supplemented food. Diabetes, a typical complication of obesity, was also dramatically decreased.

IV. DHEA and Glucose Metabolism

Investigators have shown that DHEA inhibits glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH), an enzyme that breaks down glucose. There are two glucose-metabolizing pathways in the body: the catabolic, energy-yielding pathway, and the anabolic, biosynthetic pathway. G6PDH happens to be the first enzyme in the biosynthetic pathway, the one which results in the synthesis of fatty acids and ribose (the sugar used in making deoxyribonucleic acid, or DNA). In simple language, G6PDH turns glucose into fat.DHEA’s inhibition of G6PDH may redirect glucose from anabolic fat-production into catabolic energy metabolism, thus creating a leaner metabolism. This function of DHEA is well reviewed by Dr. Schwartz and colleagues in their chapter on “The Biological Significance of Dehydroepiandrosterone” in The Biologic Role of Dehydroepiandrosterone. They assert that DHEA-mediated reductions in ribose-5-phosphate activity may be centrally responsible for the anti-tumor promoting, anti-tumor initiating, and possibly the anti-atherogenic properties of DHEA. They also note that DHEA:
1. produces hepatomegaly (liver enlargement),
2. stimulates liver catalase activity (a protective antioxidant enzyme), and
3. causes proliferation of peroxisomes (cellular organelles which specialize in oxidative processing and the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide).
The absence of such influences with synthetic analogs of DHEA (e.g., 16-alpha-fluoro-5-androsten-17-one) prompts Schwartz and colleagues to recommend that such analogs be considered for clinical applications in humans. Toxicity factors remain to be assessed.

V. DHEA and Appetite

In other experiments, DHEA supplementation has resulted in increased, decreased and unchanged food consumption. Dr. Schwartz found that it is the level of dietary fat which influences food consumption. DHEA-treated rats on a high-fat diet ate less food than control rats, while those on a low-fat diet ate more.Since DHEA inhibits G6PDH activity and suppresses the body’s ability to synthesize fat from carbohydrate, dietary sources of fat become more important. This can affect changes in appetite. But despite possible increases in food intake, DHEA-treated animals consistently weighed less than control animals. In other words, increases in appetite, when indulged, did not negate the anti-obesity property of DHEA.

VI. DHEA and Aging

The body’s production of DHEA drops from about 30 mg per day at age 20 to less than 6 mg per day at age 80. According to Dr. Regelson of the Medical College of Virginia, DHEA is “one of the best biochemical bio-markers for chronologic age.” In some people, DHEA levels decline 95% during their lifetime — the largest decline of an important biochemical yet documented.
In animal studies, DHEA extends rodent lifespans up to 50%. The animals not only lived longer, they appeared younger. The graying, coarse-haired controls could easily be distinguished from the sleek, black-haired, DHEA-treated animals.
DHEA levels are directly related to mortality (the probability of dying) in humans. In a 12-year study of over 240 men aged 50 to 79 years, researchers found that DHEA levels were inversely correlated with mortality, both from heart disease and from all other causes. This finding suggests that DHEA level measurements can become a standard diagnostic predictor of disease, mortality and lifespan. Furthermore, if animal results hold true, supplemental DHEA may prevent disease, reduce mortality, and extend lifespan in humans.

VII. Enhancing Brain Function

DHEA may also be intimately involved in protecting brain neurons from senility-associated degenerative conditions, such as Alzheimer’s Disease. Not only do neuronal degenerative conditions occur most frequently when DHEA levels are lowest, but brain tissue contains many times more DHEA than is found in the bloodstream. One of the scientists at the forefront of this field of research is Dr. Eugene Roberts, who determined that very low concentrations of DHEA were found to “increase the number of neurons, their ability to establish contacts, and their differentiation” in cell cultures. He also found that DHEA enhanced long-term memory in mice undergoing avoidance training. It may play a similar role in human brain function.Drs. Roberts and Fitten report initial research on “serum steroid levels in two older men with Alzheimer’s Disease before, during and after oral administration of DHEA” in the book The Biologic Role of Dehydroepiandrosterone. Roberts’ and Fitten’s data are the best we’ve seen regarding acute and chronic changes in numerous hormone levels following various oral doses of DHEA. Because of the short peak duration of DHEA, they recommend that future studies or therapeutic trials use time-release capsules or transdermal patches to provide more uniform delivery of DHEA.
Levels of pregnenolone and 17-alpha-pregnenolone, the direct precursors to DHEA, were too low to be measured in the two patients discussed, but Roberts and Fitten present data from three other Alzheimer’s patients. Their data indicate that in all three patients, “control values for pregnenolone and 17-alpha-pregnenolone not only were below the mean averages for the population controls, they were lower than the lowest values.” In other words, the highest of the Alzheimer’s patients was lower than the lowest of the population controls. When administered 400 mg of DHEA, all three patients experienced decreased levels of 17-alpha-pregnenolone. Pregnenolone levels increased in two patients and fell in the third. In the two patients experiencing increased pregnenolone and decreased 17-alpha-pregnenolone in response to DHEA, levels of 17-alpha-pregnenolone rebounded strongly at 24 hours. Roberts and Fitten suggest that “a prolonged inhibition of 17-alpha hydroxylation occurred as a result of continued DHEA intake.”

VIII. DHEA and Immune Function

DHEA is known to enhance general immune response. Oral and subcutaneous DHEA has been observed to protect rodents against the lethality of RNA and DNA viruses, and lethal bacterial infections. Drs. Loria, Regelson and Padgett report in The Biologic Role of Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) that a single subcutaneous dose of DHEA is considerably more effective in protecting against infection than oral dosing. Intraperitoneal [within the abdominal cavity] injections were completely ineffective.Dr. Loria and colleagues noted that subcutaneous dosing did not result in the typical weight loss observed with oral DHEA. DHEA has been reported to counteract the thymic involution [shrinking of the thymus gland] and immuno-suppression caused by corticosteroids. But the special role of skin tissues in the immune facilitating properties of DHEA suggests a different mechanism is involved. Cutaneous immune cells, such as Langerhans cells and keratinocytes, are believed to play a role in “immune surveillance” and “antigen presentation.” These cells may be a site of DHEA’s action. Subcutaneous injection of DHEA results in the “formation of a local deposit leading to a relatively prolonged exposure to the lymphoid system.” DHEA skin patches might provide a similar exposure.
The delay in protective effect of subcutaneous DHEA has prompted Loria and colleagues to postulate that a DHEA metabolite is involved in cutaneous immune enhancement. In their 1993 paper, Drs. Loria and Padgett advance androstenediol [5-androsten-3-beta-17-beta-diol] as the active metabolite, the production of which is predominantly localized in the skin and brain. They found that androstenediol was significantly more effective than DHEA (10,000 times more with coxsackievirus B4!).
Neither DHEA nor androstenediol have any direct (in vitro) antiviral activity. The amount of viral load in heart, spleen, pancreas, liver and blood tissues was unaffected by either DHEA or androstenediol administration. The effect of these steroids appears to be strictly mediated through stimulation of lymphocytes, lymphoid organs, and immune-modulating cytokines [immune hormones].

IX. DHEA: The Buffering Steroid?

DHEA may be unique among hormones for its lack of specificity for hormone receptor sites. Just as vitamin E has never been shown to have a specific metabolic role (it is only proven essential as a general antioxidant), DHEA may serve an equally general purpose. “DHEA is the first example of a buffer action for hormones that I know of,” states Dr. Regelson. “It is a broad-acting hormone that only demonstrates itself under a specific set of circumstances. In that way, it is comparable to a buffer against sudden changes in acidity or alkalinity. That is why when you get older, you’re much more vulnerable to the effects of stress. As DHEA declines with age, you are losing the buffer against stress-related hormones. It is the buffer action that [helps prevent] us from aging.” The decrease of DHEA with age may result in gradual decline of a system for suppressing enzyme systems responsible for creating the building blocks of new cells, such as lipids, nucleic acids (RNA and DNA), and sex steroids. The resulting rise in enzymatic activity in advanced age may be responsible for the proliferative events (e.g., cancer) and degenerative disease that become more frequent in advanced age. In this respect, DHEA might be best considered to be an anti-hormone, which may “de-excite” steroid-sensitive receptors that would otherwise lead to enhanced metabolic activity.X. Dosage

Exact dosages of DHEA for humans have not been clearly determined. Daily dosages vary from 5 to 10 mg to as much as 2000 mg, with 5, 10, 25 and 250 mg being the range for typical tablet and capsule sizes. DHEA is usually split into 2-4 daily doses, especially at the higher dosage levels. We recommend that dosage be adjusted to bring blood DHEA and DHEA-S measurements towards young-adult levels. These blood tests can be ordered by your physician. A base-line test is required before you start taking DHEA.XI. Conclusion
Because of its generally universal function in human metabolism, DHEA is being associated with numerous human maladies. For example, DHEA has been found to have a highly statistically significant correlation with vertebral bone density in postmenopausal women, suggesting that DHEA (and other weak androgens) may help protect against osteoporosis. This, and its low toxicity, may tend to give DHEA the same panacea stigma that the antioxidants vitamin E and C suffer.
For additional information on DHEA,

XII. Regulatory Difficulties

In Europe, DHEA is available as a drug in 5 and 10 mg doses. It is used primarily for the treatment of menopause. In the United States, DHEA must first be approved as a drug by the FDA before it can be marketed for medical purposes. Unfortunately, this is an adversarial process (the drug companies advocating for the drug and the FDA demanding proof of efficacy and safety) which takes up to 100 million dollars and a decade to accomplish. Without a patent to restrict competition, prices cannot be raised high enough to recover the investment in the approval process. DHEA is an unpatentable substance.XIII. References

1. Barrett-Connor E, Khaw KT and Yen SS. A prospective study of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, mortality, and cardiovascular disease. New England Journal of Medicine 315(24): 1519-24, 11 December 1986.
2. Bulbrook RD, Hayward JL and Spicer CC. Abnormal excretion of urinary steroids by women with early breast cancer. Lancet 2: 1238-40, 1962.
3. Bulbrook RD, Hayward JL and Spicer CC. Relation between urinary androgen and corticoid excretion and subsequent breast cancer. Lancet 2: 395-98, 1971.
4. Chen TT, et al. Prevention of obesity in Avy/a mice by dehydroepiandrosterone. Lipids 12: 409-13, 1977.
5. Cleary MP and Fisk JF. Anti-obesity effect of two different levels of dehydroepiandrosterone in lean and obese middle-aged female Zucker rats. International Journal of Obesity 10(3): 193-204, 1986.
6. Coleman DL, Leiter EH and Applezweig N. Therapeutic effects of dehydroepiandrosterone metabolites in diabetes mutant mice (C57BL/KsJ-db/db). Endocrinology 115: 239-43, 1984.
7. Coleman DL, Leiter EH and Schweizer RW. Therapeutic effects of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in diabetic mice. Diabetes 31: 830-33, 1982.
8. Coleman DL, Schweizer RW and Leiter EH. Effect of genetic background on the therapeutic effects of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in diabetes-obesity mutants and in aged normal mice. Diabetes 33: 26-32, 1984.
9. de Peretti E and Forest MG. Pattern of plasma dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate levels in humans from birth to adulthood: Evidence for testicular production. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 47: 572-77, 1978.
10. Kahn, Carol. Beyond the Double Helix: DNA and the Quest for Longevity, Times Books, 1985, page 143. A thorough and highly readable “inside” account of DHEA research.
11. Loria RM, Regelson W and Padgett DA. Immune response facilitation and resistance to virus and bacterial infections with dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). In: The Biologic Role of Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), Mohammed Kalimi and William Regelson [Eds], page 107-130, Walter de Gruyter, New York, 1990. ISBN 3-11-012243-X.
12. Loria RM and Padgett DA. Androstenediol regulates systemic resistance against lethal Infections in mice. Annals of NY Academy of Sciences 685: 293-95, 1993.
13. Nyce JW, Magee PN, Hard GC and Schwartz AG. Inhibition of 1,2-dimethylhydrazine-induced colon tumorigenesis in Balb/c mice by dehydroepiandrosterone. Carcinogenesis 5: 57-62, 1984.
14. Orentreich N, Brind JL, Rizer RL and Vogelman JH. Age changes and sex differences in serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate concentrations throughout adulthood. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 59: 551-55, 1984.
15. Pashko LL and Schwartz AG. Effect of food restriction, dehydroepiandrosterone, or obesity on the binding of 3H-7,12-dimethylbenz(alpha)anthracene to mouse skin DNA. J Gerontology 38: 8-12, 1983.
16. Schwartz AG. Inhibition of spontaneous breast cancer formation in female C3H(Avy/a) mice by long-term treatment with dehydroepiandrosterone. Cancer Research 39: 1129-32, 1979.
17. Schwartz AG, Hard GC, Pashko LL, Abou-Gharbia M and Swern D. Dehydroepiandrosterone: An antiobesity and anti-carcinogenic agent. Nutrition and Cancer 3: 46-53, 1981.
18. Schwartz AG, Nyce JW and Tannen RH. Inhibition of tumorigenesis and autoimmune development in mice by dehydroepiandrosterone. Mod Aging Res 6: 177-84, 1984.
19. Schwartz AG, Fairman DK and Pashko LL. The Biological Significance of Dehydroepiandrosterone. In: The Biologic Role of Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), Mohammed Kalimi and William Regelson [Eds], Walter de Gruyter, New York, 1990.
20. Yen TT, Allan JA, Pearson DV, Acton JM and Greenberg MM. Prevention of obesity in Avy/a mice by dehydroepiandrosterone. Lipids 12: 409-13, 1977. by Ward Dean, M.D., and Steven Wm. Fowkes

Dihydrotestosterone is essentially a male hormone. It plays a big role earlier in life, helping young boys to grow facial hair. It also assists in the development of male reproductive organs. This hormone is also present in women, just as men have small amounts of estrogen. Since women do not typically have as high an amount of DHT as men do, they do not experience baldness to the same degree as men. However, women are usually the last to go seek any treatment, if they do so at all.

Basically, what happens with DHT is that it attaches itself to the hair follicles and begins to cut off the blood supply to the hair. Eventually, the follicle shrinks, making it impossible for hair to grow back again. There is good news, though. The hair follicle is not dead at this stage, only shrunken. Therefore, there is a possibility that, with proper treatment, hair growth could be stimulated once more.

The body will not naturally reverse the effects of balding. When dihydrotestosterone attacks, it will not stop on its own. Excess amounts of DHT are genetic. You get this from someone in your family. So, if you have a lot of bald relatives, don’t be shocked when it starts happening to you. You can, though, look into hair products early and try to stop the process from even beginning.

Estrogen refers to a group of female “sex” hormones, produced primarily in the ovaries, and to a lesser extent in the body’s fat cells. It is important for adolescent sexual development and for regulating the menstrual cycle. Estrogen prepares the uterus for receiving the fertilized egg by stimulating the uterine lining to grow. During days 10 – 14 in a woman’s cycle, the uterus is mainly under the influence of estrogen, which begins to climb right before ovulation, which is usually between days seven to fourteen, peaking at ovulation in preparation for a fertilized egg. Estrogen also improves skin tone and reduces vaginal dryness. There are three main types of estrogen that a woman makes: Estradiol (E1), which accounts for 80% of her estrogen, Estriol (e2), and Estrone (E3), each accounting for 10% of the remaining estrogen.

Signs of estrogen deficiency include: hot flashes, night sweats, dry eyes, vaginal dryness, sagging breasts and loss of breast fullness, mental fogginess, depression, changes in mood and a decreased sense of sensuality and sexuality.

Progesterone is another female “sex” hormone, produced in the ovaries, that prepares the uterus for a fertilized. Its sudden withdrawal causes the uterus to shed its lining if pregnancy does not occur. While estrogen is high (during days 7-14 of the menstrual cycle), progesterone is at its lowest level. Its levels climb to a peak between days 14 – 24, and then dramatically drop off again just before the start of menstruation. Ideally, women should have five to ten times more progesterone than estrogen in the blood and 40 to 150 times in the saliva. The lower the ratio of progesterone to estrogen, the higher the risk of health problems. Progesterone has the unique ability to change its structural form to become other hormones, allowing it to be converted and utilized by the body to the point of depletion.

Testosterone is responsible for much more than defining sexual characteristics in men or influencing sex drive. Testosterone is essential for life since it helps to regulate basic metabolism. Testosterone also facilitates protein synthesis and the building of body tissues. Testosterone is produced by small groups of specialized cells within the testicles and is also secreted, to a lesser extent, by the ovaries. The production of testosterone is triggered by luteinizing hormone (LH), produced in the pituitary gland. In the absence of LH, testosterone production ceases. With age, blood levels of testosterone slowly decreases. Research conducted by the National Institute of Health has shown a 2% reduction per year from age 30 to age 70.

The adrenal glands produce two primary hormones, DHEA and cortisol. Both are considered the major shock absorber hormones in the body. They buffer stress and the negative impact it can have on both mental and physical function. Long-term stress can have a serious impact on the adrenal glands and cause them to shrink and reduce production. This causes cellular damage, which sets off a chain reaction affecting all parts of the body, as well as accelerating the aging process.

The symptoms associated with adrenal dysfunction are diverse and can involve the digestive, circulatory, respiratory, as well as the brain and nervous systems. In addition, the adrenals can impact the growth and repair of bones, muscles, hair and nails. Research has shown that to cause a positive hormonal change, you must first normalize adrenal activity.

Cortisol is a steroid hormone made in the adrenal glands. Cortisol’s important function in the body includes roles in the regulation of blood pressure and cardiovascular function as well as regulation of the body’s use of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. Cortisol secretion increases in response to any stress in the body, whether physical (such as illness, trauma, surgery or temperature extremes) or psychological pressures, (such as poor marriage, unemployment, etc.).

When cortisol is secreted, it causes a breakdown of muscle protein, leading to release of amino acids into the bloodstream. These amino acids are then used by the liver to synthesize glucose for energy, in a process called gluconeogenesis. Cortisol also leads to the release of energy source from fat cells, for use by the muscles. Taken together, these energy directing processes prepare the individual to deal with stressors and insure that the brain receives adequate energy sources.

The body possesses an elaborate feedback system for controlling cortisol secretion and regulating the amount of cortisol in the bloodstream. The pituitary gland, a small gland at the base of the brain, makes and secretes a hormone known as adrenocorticotropic hormone, or ACTH. Secretion of ACTH signals the adrenal glands to increase cortisol production and secretion. The pituitary, in turn, receives signals from the hypothalamus of the brain in the form of the hormone CRH, or corticotrophin-releasing hormone, which signals the pituitary to release ACTH. Almost immediately after a stressful event, the levels of the regulatory hormones ACTH and CRH increase, causing an immediate rise in cortisol levels. When cortisol is present in adequate, or excess amounts, a negative feedback system operates on the pituitary gland and hypothalamus, which alerts these areas to reduce the output of ACTH and CRH, respectively, in order to reduce cortisol secretion when adequate levels are present.

DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is the most abundant hormone found in the bloodstream. When the adrenal glands are chronically stressed, your production of DHEA can be greatly reduced. DHEA in an important regulator of the thyroid and pituitary glands. Though the adrenal glands produce most of the body’s supply of DHEA, the gonads (ovaries, testes) can also manufacture DHEA when the adrenals are overworked. DHEA exerts powerful effects throughout the body. Most cells possess DHEA receptors on their membranes. DHEA is vital to health. DHEA also regulates many other hormones; however it can be easily converted to estradiol and/or testosterone and therefore needs to be monitored by testing levels of estradiol and testosterone. DHEA is a good stress barometer, because when stress levels go up, DHEA levels go down. Generally, DHEA levels tend to decrease with age. DHEA peaks at age 25 then declines at a rate of about 2% per year. It is not until the 40s that we begin to feel the effects of lower DHEA levels.

The most accurate way to measure DHEA is to measure it in the stable form that the body keeps it in: DHEA-S (dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate). Measurement of serum DHEA-S is a useful marker of adrenal androgen synthesis. Abnormally low levels have been reported in hypoadrenalism, while high or inverted diurnal levels have been reported in several conditions.

Estriol, E3, is synthesized in the placenta from 16–hydroxydehydroepiandrosterone of fetal origin. Thus, normal production can serve as a measure of the integrity of the fetoplacental unit. Sequential monitoring of estriol in high risk pregnancy has made possible early intervention and fetal salvage. Chronically low estriol values are found in intrauterine growth retardation but also are sometimes seen in normal pregnancy. A decreasing trend is indicative of fetal distress. The sensitivity and specificity of this test for detecting fetal distress are very poor; thus its use for this purpose has been largely abandoned.

Combined evaluation of unconjugated serum estriol, maternal serum hCG, maternal serum AFP, and maternal age has value in predicting risk for fetal chromosomal abnormalities during pregnancy. The use of maternal serum AFP, hCG, and estriol predicts 65% of Down syndrome, as opposed to 28% if only serum AFP is used.3,4,5

Limitations: Single values are almost impossible to interpret; trends in a series of measurements are much more important. May be low in case of placental sulfatase deficiency in the presence of a healthy baby. Other causes of decreased estriol levels include subjects living at high altitudes, anemia, severe liver disease, and a variety of drugs. Estriol may be increased with multiple pregnancy and with oxytocin. It is not reliable in the presence of renal disease.

At this point, the feedback of estradiol on the hypothalamus becomes positive and produces the midcycle surge of LH which immediately precedes ovulation. After ovulation, estradiol levels initially fall abruptly, but then increase as the corpus luteum forms. At the end of the cycle, levels fall off in anticipation of the initiation of the next follicular phase. During pregnancy, the placenta produces estradiol. Estradiol levels are generally low in menopause due to diminished ovarian production.

A small amount of estradiol is produced by the male testes. Elevated levels in males can lead to gynocomastia. Increased estradiol levels in males may be caused by increased body fat, resulting in enhanced peripheral aromatization of androgens. Levels in men can also be increased by excessive use of marijuana, alcohol, or prescribed drugs, including phenothiazines and spironolactone. Estradiol levels can also be dramatically elevated in germ cell tumors and tumors of a number of glands in both men and women.

Estradiol levels are routinely used to monitor ovulation induction to stimulate follicle development in patients being treated by assisted reproductive techniques. Estradiol levels can be used to calibrate the exogenous gonadotropin administration and have been found to correlate with follicle size. The pattern of estradiol secretion during the cycle can be used to predict the outcome of the ART protocol.

Also known as: Hemoglobin A1c; HbA1c; Glycohemoglobin; Glycated hemoglobin; Glycosylated hemoglobin blood tests: Lipid profile, Cardiac risk assessment, CRP, Lp-PLA2

Related tests: Glucose; Microalbumin; Microalbumin/creatinine ratio; Fructosamine

How is it used?
The A1c test and eAG calculation are used primarily to monitor the glucose control of diabetics over time. The goal of those with diabetes is to keep their blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible. This helps to minimize the complications caused by chronically elevated glucose levels, such as progressive damage to body organs like the kidneys, eyes, cardiovascular system, and nerves. The A1c test and eAG result give a picture of the average amount of glucose in the blood over the last few months. They can help you and your doctor know if the measures you are taking to control your diabetes are successful or need to be adjusted.
The A1c test is frequently used to help newly diagnosed diabetics determine how elevated their uncontrolled blood glucose levels have been. It may be ordered several times while control is being achieved, and then several times a year to verify that good control is being maintained.

When is it ordered?
Depending on the type of diabetes that you have, how well your diabetes is controlled, and your doctor, your A1c may be measured 2 to 4 times each year. The American Diabetes Association recommends testing your A1c at least twice a year. When someone is first diagnosed with diabetes or if control is not good, A1c may be ordered more frequently.

What does the test result mean?
A1c is currently reported as a percentage, and it is recommended that diabetics aim to keep their A1c below 7%. The report for your A1c test also may include an estimated Average Glucose (eAG), which is a calculated result based on your A1c levels. The purpose of reporting eAG is to help you relate your A1c results to your everyday glucose monitoring levels. The formula for eAG converts percentage A1c to units of mg/dL or mmol/L so that you can compare it to your glucose levels from home monitoring systems or laboratory tests.
A nondiabetic person will have an A1c between 4% and 6%. The closer a diabetic can keep their A1c to 6% without experiencing excessive hypoglycemia, the better their diabetes is in control. As the A1c and eAG increase, so does the risk of complications.

Is there anything else I should know?
he A1c test will not reflect temporary, acute blood glucose increases or decreases. The glucose swings of someone who has “brittle” diabetes will not be reflected in the A1c.
If you have a hemoglobin variant, such as sickle cell hemoglobin (hemoglobin S), you will have a decreased amount of hemoglobin A. This may limit the usefulness of the A1c test in monitoring your diabetes. If you have anemia, hemolysis, or heavy bleeding, your test results may be falsely low. If you are iron deficient, you may have an increased A1c measurement. If you have had a recent transfusion, then your A1c will be falsely increased (blood preservative solutions contain high glucose levels) and not accurately reflect your glucose control for 2 to 3 months.

There are 23.6 million children and adults in the United States, or 7.8% of the population, who have diabetes. While an estimated 17.9 million have been diagnosed with diabetes, unfortunately, 5.7 million people (or nearly one quarter) are unaware that they have the disease.

Pre-diabetes is a serious medical condition that can be treated. The good news is that the recently completed Diabetes Prevention Program study conclusively showed that people with pre-diabetes can prevent the development of type 2 diabetes by making changes in their diet and increasing their level of physical activity. They may even be able to return their blood glucose levels to the normal range.

While the DPP also showed that some medications may delay the development of diabetes, diet and exercise worked better. Just 30 minutes a day of moderate physical activity, coupled with a 5-10% reduction in body weight, produced a 58% reduction in diabetes.

The American Diabetes Association is developing materials that will help people understand their risks for pre-diabetes and what they can do to halt the progression to diabetes and even to, “turn back the clock” In the meantime, ADA has a wealth of resources for people with diabetes or at risk for diabetes that can be of use to people interested in pre-diabetes.

What is it?
Cancer of the ovaries is the sixth most common cancer in women. About 25,000 new cases are diagnosed in the United States each year, and more than 14,000 women die of the disease each year. This makes it a more common cause of death than more prevalent, but more easily detected, cancers of the uterus and cervix.

It is difficult to detect ovarian cancer early – only about 25% of the cancers are found in the easily treatable stage, before they have spread beyond the ovaries. The symptoms of ovarian cancer are subtle and nonspecific. They include abdominal swelling and pain, indigestion, changes in urination and bowel habits, bloating and a feeling of pressure in the pelvis, weight changes, and unexplained vaginal bleeding. Since there are many non-cancerous conditions that can also cause these symptoms, it is important to have regular checkups and to consult with your physician if you are experiencing any symptoms.

Who is at increased risk?
Women who have no family members with ovarian cancer have a 1 in 70 risk of developing the disease during their lifetime. Women who have one first-degree relative with ovarian cancer have a risk of 1 out of 20 getting the disease too. Women with two first-degree relatives have a risk of 1 out of 14 getting ovarian cancer. A woman’s first-degree relatives include mother, sister and aunt either on her mothers or fathers side. A very small group of these women — 3 out of 100 of the women with two relatives — have something called autosomal dominant syndrome. This places them at very high risk for ovarian cancer. The three known hereditary syndromes that place a woman at exceedingly high risk are:
Ovarian cancer syndrome in which the family members have ovarian cancer at the same location on the ovary.
Breast-ovarian cancer syndrome, in which two or more family members have both of these kinds of cancer.
Breast-ovarian-endometrial-colorectal cancer syndrome, in which two or more family members have all of these kinds of cancer.

What are the general risk factors?
5 to 10 out of 100 women with ovarian cancer have 1 or more relatives with the disease.
A woman who has a history of infertility, has a higher risk of getting ovarian cancer.
A woman who did not have 1 or more children is at a higher risk.
A woman who menstruated, or started her period early, has a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer.
A woman who has had breast, endometrial or colorectal cancer, has a higher risk of getting ovarian cancer.
A woman who entered menopause later than the average age, is at a higher risk. The average age for menopause is 52 years old.
A woman who is obese or very overweight, has a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer.

Source – National Institute Of Health

There’s no sure way to prevent prostate cancer — but you can make some choices that might help. Prostate cancer is complicated, and researchers are still trying to understand the full range of factors that cause it — and determine which prevention strategies are safe and most effective.

Experts know that diet and lifestyle choices play a part in prostate cancer risk. Some medications and supplements also show promise in preventing prostate cancer, but more research is needed in this area.

While any man can get prostate cancer, it’s most common in older men, men with a family history of prostate cancer and in black men. While age, genetics and race are factors you can’t change, there are some factors you can control.

Here are a few things that you can do to help lower your risk of prostate cancer — and a few things that are still not proved, but might help. These steps may also help prevent other cancers and health conditions such as heart disease.

Nutrition and preventing prostate cancer

So far, research does not support definite nutritional guidelines for preventing prostate cancer. However, you can reasonably act on these suggestions:

Don’t overeat. Eat moderate-sized portions and keep your calories under control.

Avoid high-fat foods. Prostate cancer rates vary greatly from one country to another, with the highest rates appearing in countries where people tend to eat a lot of fat. A diet high in saturated fats (such as animal fats found in red meat) may pose the greatest risk.

Make healthy choices. Choose whole-grain foods, such as brown rice and whole-wheat bread. Limit sweets and salt.

Drink alcohol in moderation. Generally, this means no more than two drinks a day for men.

Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables. A diet high in fruits and vegetables has been linked to a lower risk of various kinds of cancer. Recent studies cast doubt on the theory that lycopene — an antioxidant found in tomatoes — lowers prostate cancer risk. But don’t stop eating tomatoes. Eating plenty of all kinds of vegetables, including tomatoes, may help ward off prostate cancer and other cancers.

Eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids. While a diet high in most kinds of fat is linked to a higher risk of cancer and other health problems, there is an exception. Omega-3 fatty acids — a type of fat found in cold-water fish such as salmon, herring and mackerel — appear to reduce the risk of certain cancers.

Experts are still studying other foods to see whether they help prevent prostate cancer. While the verdict’s still out, eating more of these foods probably won’t hurt — and may help prevent cancer and other health problems:

Eat soy products and legumes. Soybeans and other legumes contain phytoestrogens, which are plant-based chemicals that behave like the hormone estrogen in the human body. These chemicals might help to prevent prostate cancer. In fact, one possible explanation for lower rates of prostate cancer in Asian men is that they eat more soy protein.

Drink green tea. Green tea contains antioxidants such as polyphenols that may help prevent certain cancers and other health problems.

COMPARISON: Standard Lipid profile vs VAP Cholesterol panel

Standard Lipid Profile

*Measures total cholesterol

*Measures HDL

*Calculates LDL using the Friedewald formula (LDL = TC – HDL – TRIG/5)

*Measures triglycerides

*Requires fasting

The VAP Cholesterol Test

*Directly measures total cholesterol

*Directly measures HDL and separates into HDL2 and HDL3 (HDL2 is the “best” cholesterol and when low, is a risk factor for CAD, HDL3 is the least protective HDL)

*Directly measures LDL and separates into 3 components: LDL-R; Lp(a); and IDL (Total LDL may be normal, but one of the 3 coponents of LDL may be elevated and indicate a risk for CAD. Lp(a) is a genetic risk factor that, when elevated, could indicate a higher risk for heart disease. IDL is also a genetic risk factor.)

*Measures LDL pattern density. (Pattern A indicates large, buoyant LDL particles. Pattern B indicates small, dense
LDL particles and is most atherogenic).

*Directly measures triglycerides.

*Directly measures triglyceride-rich lipids: VLDL (1,2,3 and total) (VLDL 3 is small, dense and most dangerous).

*Fasting not required. ATPIII requires expanded lipid test when triglycerides > 400mg/dL and suggests direct measured LDL in non-fasting state.

All this through the expert utilization of a panel of four tumor-markers, with a blood sample. This panel includes the CEA, CA 125, NSE, Cyfra 21-1; plus the Comprehensive Metabolic-14 panel with glucose, kidney & liver panels and electrolytes TUMOR MARKERS are substances that can be detected in higher-than-normal amounts in the blood, of some patients with certain types of cancer. These substances are produced either by the tumor itself or by the body in response to the presence of cancer or certain benign (non-cancerous) conditions.
These molecules (tumor markers) occurring in blood or tissue are associated with cancer; their measurement or identification is useful in patient diagnosis or clinical management. Our panel of 4 tumor-markers is of the greatest interest for an early diagnosis.

The CEA:
the first discovered tumor marker, the CEA is still largely used, in particular in lung cancer. Slight to moderate CEA elevations (rarely above 10 ng/ml) occur in 15-30% of benign diseases of the intestine, the pancreas, the liver and the lungs: liver cirrhosis, chronic hepatitis, pancreatitis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, emphysema. Smokers also have elevated CEA values.

The CA 125:
mainly used in the ovarian cancer, it’s also interesting in lung cancer when associated with other tumor markers. Slight to moderate elevations have been reported in individuals with non-malignant conditions such as cirrhosis, hepatitis, endometriosis, first trimester pregnancy, ovarian cysts, and pelvic inflammatory disease. Elevations during the menstrual cycle have also been mentioned. Non-ovarian malignancies include cervical, liver, pancreatic, lung, colon, stomach, biliary tract, uterine, fallopian tube, breast and endometrial carcinomas.

The NSE:
largely used in the small cells lung cancer, where marked increase is noticed ; its use with the Cyfra 21 in lung cancer treatment monitoring is of the utmost importance. NSE concentrations (inf 12 ng/ml) have been found in patients with benign pulmonary diseases and cerebral diseases. Moderate elevations are reported in cerebrovascular meningitis, disseminated encephalitis, spinocerebellar degeneration, cerebral ischemia and infarction, intracerebral hematoma, head injuries, inflammatory brain diseases, organic epilepsy, schizophrenia, and Jakob-Creutzfeld disease.

The Cyfra 21-1:
indifferent to histological type, CYF 21 is the panmarker for lung cancer because of its sensitivity which reaches 63% compared to 27% for CEA, 15% for SCC, 16% for NSE. Together with this sensitivity, CYF’s exceptional specificity reaches 95%, and the readings are directly in proportion to the phase of the illness; the mean serological values increase progressively from contained to metastatic : CYFRA is the most stunning marker ever found. Not performed in the US, this marker is largely used in Europe and Japan for the epidermoidis forms of lung cancer.
Slightly elevated values (up to 10 ng/ml) are rarely found in marked benign liver diseases and renal failure. The Cyfra21-1 is not available in the US, but largely used by top teams in Europe and Japan. For full benefit of patients.

Negative results
Warning : a negative result NEVER means that you are not carrying an EARLY stage of cancer, but simply that there is no detectable cancer by biology at this time : it’s good news for you nevertheless. Positive results
A distinctly positive result on one particular marker, or better on several, means that you will receive a commentary drawing your attention to the possibility of illness, and suggesting an immediate visit to your doctor (we will contact him if you so request).

Abnormal results
A moderately high marker rate could suggest all kinds of benign conditions together with a more serious condition. A visit to your doctor would be essential in order to clarify the matter.

Record of results
It would be very useful to your doctor to have a record of your results should a cancer have been detected. In order to be able to judge the effectiveness of a specific treatment (your doctor may have to change it from time to time), it is important to have the starting values and the follow-up values of the appropriate marker(s) concerning the type of cancer being treated. We therefore recommend regular SmokerTest®.  Analysis by CancerSafe® who will keep all your results in a medical file: YOUR medical file. Your file is protected by your own password and you can access it at any time. Once you have opened your file, you can E-mail or save your results in HTML format.

Values of tumor markers :
Normal range Moderate High values
CEA ng/ml               <8                     8-15             15-100,000
CA 125 U/ml          <35                   35-50             50-50,000
NSE ng/ml             <21                   21-40                40-4000
CYF21-1 ng/ml     <3.5                  3.5-5.0              5.0-1000

How is the PLAC Test different from other heart and stroke tests my doctor may order?

In most adults, cholesterol causes a fatty deposit called plaque to build up in the walls of the arteries. When arterial walls become inflamed, your body produces the enzyme Lp-PLA2. If the amount of Lp-PLA2 is high, this may indicate that the plaque is more likely to rupture through the inside lining of your artery into your bloodstream, where it may cause a clot that could result in heart attack or stroke.

The PLAC Test can provide you and your doctor with information about the health of your arteries that was not available in the past.

Why might my doctor order the PLAC Test for me?

When you have an infection in a cut, the cut becomes inflamed and hurts! Your arteries do not have the same type of pain receptors, and are unlikely to hurt when they are inflamed. The PLAC Test measures an enzyme that increases when your arteries are inflamed. That is why the PLAC Test can help your doctor better understand what is happening in your arteries, and assess your risk for heart attack and stroke.

Your doctor probably has ordered other tests for you such as cholesterol and is ordering the PLAC Test to gain more specific information about your health, and to help identify the best course of treatment for you.

If your PLAC Test is high, you are at increased risk for heart attack or stroke.

Now is the time to work with your doctor. Your doctor may prescribe lifestyle changes, such as exercise or diet. Your doctor may also order prescription medication, or medicine you can buy without a prescription. Remember, your arteries do not hurt when they are inflamed—you may have problems without knowing it. Over 50% of people who have a heart attack or stroke have no symptoms until the heart attack or stroke occurs.

It is important that you follow your doctor’s directions! Following the treatment plan your doctor recommends can significantly reduce your risk of a heart attack or stroke.

If your PLAC Test is low, you are at lower risk for heart attack or stroke.

In a study from the Mayo Clinic, 95% of individuals who had Lp-PLA2 levels below 200 ng/mL did not have either a heart attack or stroke over a 4-year period, even though they had coronary artery disease.

The NMR LipoProfile® test is an advanced cardiovascular diagnostic test that uses nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy to uniquely provide rapid, simultaneous and direct measurement of LDL particle number and size of LDL particles, as well as direct measurement of HDL and VLDL subclasses.  This detailed lipoprotein particle information allows clinicians to make more effective individualized treatment decisions than previously possible based on standard lipid panel testing. The atherosclerotic culprit is LDL particle number, not LDL cholesterol.

Why should I use the NMR LipoProfile test?

You should use the NMR LipoProfile test because it provides a more accurate picture of cardiovascular (CVD) risk than the standard lipid panel.

Homocysteine is a building block for the production of proteins in the body. However, elevated levels of Homocysteine are associated with premature vascular disease. Studies have shown that increased homocysteine levels can dramatically increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, peripheral vascular disease and clotting disorders. Fortunately, high homocysteine levels may be reduced with dietary vitamins folate, B6 and B12. High homocysteine levels are seen in renal disease, heart failure, and B12 or folate deficiency. Homocysteine levels also tend to increase with age. Low levels are associated with diets high in fruits and vegetables (especially those high in B vitamin and folate). An ideal homocysteine levels is less than 9 micromol/liter.

In recent years, studies have accumulated suggesting that a high level of homocysteine increases a person’s chance of developing heart disease, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease (a reduced blood flow to the hands and feet).

In September 1995, the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) convened a special panel to review the scientific evidence about homocysteine’s possible link to heart disease. The information that follows is based on the panel’s conclusions.

Briefly, the panel said that an elevated homocysteine level appears to increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease. However, no studies have been done to show that lowering the homocysteine level reduces the risk of heart disease. The panel stressed that more research, especially a clinical trial, must be done to understand the possible association between the level of homocysteine and heart and related diseases.

Homocysteine & Heart Disease

Various studies have found that persons with elevated levels of homocysteine in their blood are at an increased risk of heart and vessel disease. These studies include the Physicians’

Health Study, the Tromso Study from Norway, the Framingham Heart Study, and a meta-analysis of nearly 40 studies. Some studies indicate that persons with elevated homocysteine levels tend to also have other risk factors for heart disease, especially smoking, high blood pressure, and high blood cholesterol.

So far, no clinical trial has been done to show that lowering homocysteine levels alters the progression of heart disease, or prevents heart attacks or strokes.

Why Homocysteine?

Much more basic research must be done before scientists understand how an elevated homocysteine level affects the development and progression of heart disease. However, scientists have several theories: First, a high level of homocysteine may be involved with the process called atherosclerosis, the gradual buildup of fatty substances in arteries.

Homocysteine also may make blood more likely to clot by increasing the stickiness of blood platelets. Clots can block blood flow, causing a heart attack or stroke. Increased homocysteine may affect other substances involved in clotting too. Finally, higher homocysteine levels may make blood vessels less flexible–and so less able to widen to increase blood flow. However, none of theories has so far been proven.

What Determines Homocysteine Levels?

Individuals differ in their levels of homocysteine. Two key factors affect a person’s homocysteine level–genetics and environment.

Genetics

Genetic factors help regulate the level of homocysteine in the blood. For instance, genetic flaws (mutations) can affect homocysteine’s metabolism. The NHLBI Family Heart Study found families with genetic mutations in the enzymes involved in homocysteine metabolism.

The NHLBI Framingham Heart Study and other investigations have found a relationship between elevated homocysteine levels and families with early heart disease.

Environment
The level of homocysteine in the blood also is affected by the consumption of vitamins, especially folic acid, B6, and B12.

Data from the Framingham Heart Study show that only 30-40 percent of the population was getting 200 or more micrograms of folic acid in their diet. The data indicated that for many persons an intake of at least 400 micrograms was needed to keep homocysteine levels from becoming elevated.

Data also indicate that homocysteine levels are higher in older persons than younger ones and in women after menopause than in those before. But more research is needed to confirm and explain these differences.

CRP and Cardiovascular Disease Risk
In studies involving large numbers of patients, CRP levels seem to be correlated with levels of cardiovascular risk. In fact, CRP seems to predict cardiovascular risk at least as well as cholesterol levels do. Data from the Physicians Health Study, a clinical trial involving 18,000 apparently healthy physicians, found that elevated levels of CRP were associated with a threefold increase in the risk of heart attack. In the Harvard Women’s Health Study, results of the CRP test were more accurate than cholesterol levels in predicting coronary problems. Twelve different markers of inflammation were studied in healthy, postmenopausal women. After three years, CRP was the strongest predictor of risk. Women in the group with the highest CRP levels were more than four times as likely to have died from coronary disease, or to have suffered a nonfatal heart attack or stroke. This group was also more likely to have required a cardiac procedure such as angioplasty (a procedure that opens clogged arteries with the use of a flexible tube) or bypass surgery than women in the group with the lowest levels.

How Is CRP Measured?
CRP is measured with a simple blood test, which can be done at the same time your cholesterol is checked. One such test is the highly-sensitivity C-reactive protein (HS-CRP, also called ultra-sensitive CRP or US-CRP) test.
Risk is determined based on your test results.

It’s important to note that inflammation due to other conditions, such as an infection, illness, or a serious flare-up of arthritis, can raise CRP levels. Before getting the CRP test, tell your doctor what other medical conditions you have.

A key link between the immune system and central nervous system
It is helpful to keep in mind that the immune system has the same functions as the central nervous system: to perceive and remember the environment. The differences are only in the locations of the tissues involved and the scale of the perception. The brain perceives and remembers the big world of the senses and the immune system perceives and remembers antigens and molecules. The outcome of both brain and immune system processing embraces the resulting function of recognition. From this perspective, it does not seem surprising that children with difficulties in perception and processing at the cognitive level may have parallel difficulties at the immune level. Similarly, just as therapies may be usefully directed at simplifying and integrating a child’s sensory experience, the diet and general antigenic environment may require simplification to suit a child’s particular sensitivities. Desensitization is a word we use with equal comfort in both domains.

Which foods are the right, healthy foods?
Many children have already simplified their diets by refusing a wide variety of healthy foods. The restricted intake of sick children may be limited to foods for which they have an allergic craving or which are not very nourishing, such as potato chips. It is helpful, therefore, to have a test that gives reliable information concerning safe, healthy foods, as well as potentially reactive foods.

IgG ELISA food testing controversy and proven benefits…
Food allergy testing is controversial. Many allergist/immunologists believe that IgE testing for immediate food hypersensitivity and limited use of skin testing and elimination diets is all that can be done to evaluate food sensitivities. I have found IgG ELISA to be a very useful tool for screening for safe foods, evaluating the overall state of immune activation against foods as reflected in the total number of reactive foods in the panel, and spotting reactive foods. I have conducted two double blind, placebo diet controlled studies validating IgG ELISA by showing a significant difference in symptom reduction in subjects avoiding IgG reactive foods as compared with IgG non-reactive foods. I recommend such testing and, at least, a trial of avoidance of IgG reactive foods for children in guidelines in food elimination. Such tests are not absolute arbiters of every food that may be safe or unsafe. This is particularly true for foods for which the mechanism of sensitivity is not immunologic (because they interfere with phenosulfotransferase – chocolate, cheese, banana, citrus, contain fungal antigens and toxins, are a source of peptides, or contain sugar or additives).

Anatomically the CNS and immune systems are quite distinct and different. One is made up of stationary long branching permanent cells with a compact headquarters between ones ears. The other is made up of a disseminated population of short-lived mobile cells with no specific organ to call home. Pick up any textbook of anatomy, physiology, or pathology. The CNS and immune system chapters are widely separated as are the experts who wrote the chapters. From the way I see it, however, they are a functional unit.

An important hidden link between the CNS and immune system…
Look at it this way: The cells of both systems arise from the same origin in the neural crest of the embryo. Both systems contain the only cells of our bodies that exist as permanent, undividing cells from infancy to old age. (Such long-lived cells are a subset of the otherwise ephemeral cells, lymphocytes, of the immune system.) Both systems have the job of perceiving the environment. The CNS takes in the big world of our senses, our every day cognitive experience. The immune system takes in the microscopic or molecular world of that has to do with “sensing” the constant presence of friendly or unfriendly (such as cancer) cells, germs, food molecules, and toxins.

The chemistry of the immune system perceiving its tiny environment is not very different from our nose smelling the bread baking in the oven. However we have a direct experience of the bread while our immune system only makes us aware of its activities when something seems to be quite wrong, and the message that something is wrong may be quite delayed or obscure. The memory of your fifth birthday party when your friend Jeffrey spilled purple juice all over your new sneakers is in your CNS. That same week, when the doctor gave you your shot against tetanus, diphtheria, and whooping cough, the enduring memory of the “taste” of those germs was evoked in your immune system where it remains today. The birthday and the immunization are stored differently in you body, but functionally they are come under the same heading: perception and memory.

Another important link between the CNS and immune system…
Perception and memory are the basis for “recognition”. Recognition is a term we use interchangeably to describe the day to day activities of both our CNS and our immune systems. Finally, both of these two systems share the capacity for this mysterious process called sensitization, which is, in a way, an inconvenient or painful alteration of the memory and recognition process. Viewed from this perspective, it is not surprising that children who have problems with taking in and processing the world express that problem on both the cognitive and immune levels. They are really just different aspects of the same underlying mysterious disorder.

We try to help our children organize and integrate their cognitive world by imposing certain simplified order. Such order may take the form of repetitive behavioral and linguistic exercises or efforts to modify responses (desensitize) to sensory input. On the immune level we try to impose a simplified order by avoidance of, or desensitization to, offending foods and inhalants. This applies whether the mechanism of the reaction to foods, for example, is “allergic” within the academic definition of the word or “intolerant” within a notion that covers a variety of mechanisms, including the mischief caused by certain peptides derived from gluten and casein.

Helping a picky, hypersensitive child…
So you have a picky kid. Your job is to help him or her learn better picking. If he or she chooses to limit his or her activities to monotonous behavior, you try to broaden his or her cognitive experience by picking and presenting other, more useful, kinds of stimuli. If he or she is sensitive to tastes, touch, smells, sights or sounds, you take steps to help him or her integrate and become less painfully sensitive to these stimuli. If your kid’s immune system is picky, your job is to find the stimuli that are bothersome, and present ones that are not mischievous.

How important is the food allergy link to children?
…When you have lots of other things to think about, should you change the diet of a child who has decided to live on French fries, smooshed bagels, chocolate milk, pretzels, Twinkies and diet coke, rejecting all alternatives with an iron will? Yup! And when you get over the hump, you are likely to be rewarded with changes in sleep, behavior, attention and “sensitivity” that make the struggle worth it. There are several ways of checking for food allergy. Trial and error changes in diet are tedious but inexpensive. I have found IgG ELISA blood testing as done at Immuno Laboratories to be a reliable measure both in term of my experience with individuals as well as in research studies done to validate the test.

Children are particularly susceptible to the deleterious effects of heavy metal exposure for several reasons. Their developing nervous systems are more sensitive, their bodies absorb toxins more rapidly, and clear them from the system more slowly, than adults. Also, a child’s blood-brain barrier, the natural protective mechanism which blocks harmful substances from entering and damaging the brain, is not yet fully formed.

Professionals working in the field of autism have expressed concern that some autistic children may have been exposed to potentially damaging levels of ethyl mercury, contained in a preservative used in certain vaccinations. Clinical neurobehavioral symptoms of mercury poisoning seem to closely parallel many common symptoms of autism.

In addition, several studies have associated high lead levels in children with autism. Elevated levels of lead in hair, signifying long-term toxic exposure to this heavy metal, have been correlated with increased behavior abnormalities and learning disorders in children. Based on clinicians’ observations, antimony, a potential toxin found in some fire retardant materials, is also a possible cause for concern.

It is important to remember that heavy metals are pervasive toxic threats in a child’s environment, with air, soil, water and food all potential vectors of exposure. Ultimately, the biochemical individuality of each child may play an important role in influencing whether or not such exposure produces neurological damage. Evidence suggests that autistic children may be less able to detoxify toxic agents they are exposed to from the environment and this inability may predispose the children to suffer neural damage consistent with autistic behavioral traits.

Elemental Analysis (hair, blood, or urine) evaluates body burden of heavy metal toxins and nutritional adequacy of important mineral elements. Each specimen type provides a unique window into element status. A hair sample will reflect chronic toxic exposure and long-term nutritional deficiencies, while blood and urine assessment will gauge the effects of more recent imbalances. Possible treatments for element imbalances include chelation therapy, nutrient supplements, vitamins, water purifying systems, dietary changes and other natural approaches.

Osteoporosis increases the risk of bone fractures, especially in the hips, spine, and wrists. Although it can affect anyone, the risk of developing osteoporosis increases with age, affects women significantly more often than men, and is most prevalent in Caucasian and Asian women. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF), 10 million people in the United States have osteoporosis and another 34 million have low bone mass and are at risk of developing the disease. Of those who have osteoporosis, 80% are women.

Most of the people at risk for osteoporosis are not aware of it. It is called a “silent disease” because there are usually no symptoms until a person has a bone fracture. This breakage, frequently in the hip, the vertebrae of the spine, or in the wrist, can occur with very little pressure and can cause the person significant pain and protracted or permanent disability. If the fracture causes severe debility where the patient’s general health is affected, it may be a contributing factor in the death of the patient.

Bones are primarily a combination of type-I collagen protein and calcium phosphate. The protein forms a spongy network that is “mineralized” by the addition of the calcium compound to make the bones both strong and flexible. Bone is living tissue that is slowly but continuously replaced. During a process called bone resporption, cells called osteoclasts dissolve bone on a microscopic scale and enzymes break down the collagen network. This is followed by the formation of new bone by cells called osteoblasts, which secrete osteocalcin and precursors to collagen and create a new protein framework. The framework is then mineralized to create new bone. This on-going process is called bone turnover or bone remodeling and it takes place throughout the body, normally replacing about 8-10% of the body’s bone each year.

During childhood, bone formation proceeds at a faster rate than bone resorption, and bone mass increases to peak at about 30 years of age. After this peak, bone formation slows and resorption begins to outpace it, resulting in a decline in bone mass with age. An inadequate intake of calcium and vitamin D during childhood, the use of medications that contain steroids (such as asthma medications), anorexia, inactivity, smoking, and excess alcohol consumption can all increase the risk of a person developing osteoporosis later in life. Some diseases, such as thyroid disease, Cushing’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, kidney disease, hyperparathyroidism, and vitamin D deficiency can also have an effect on bone health. Those with a strong family history of osteoporosis may also be at an increased risk of developing it themselves.

Women who go through menopause may experience an increased rate of bone mass loss with a decrease in estrogen. Going through menopause early can exacerbate the loss. According to the NOF, some women can lose up to 20% of their bone mass in the first 5 to 8 years following menopause. Men with decreased testosterone levels are also at risk for increased bone loss.

There are two types of osteoporosis:

Primary- or high turnover or age-related osteoporosis. Occurs in some women aged 50-75 due to the sudden decrease in estrogen as a result of menopause. This causes rapid calcium loss from the bones, making the women susceptible to hip, wrist, forearm, and spinal compression fractures. Age-related osteoporosis occurs in men and women older than 75 years of age and may be due to a decrease in calcium absorption or vitamin D deficiency. Changes in lifestyle, calcium or vitamin D supplements, or other medications decreasing bone loss may slow the progression of this type of osteoporosis.

Secondary– or low turnover osteoporosis. Occurs when bone loss and formation are not equal and more bone is broken down than replaced. It affects both men and women and may be due to several different disorders including rheumatoid arthritis, hyperparathyroidism, Cushing’s disease, chronic kidney disease, multiple myeloma, or drugs such as anti-epileptics, glucocorticoids or lithium. Treatment of the underlying disease or cause may slow the loss of bone density in secondary osteoporosis.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis, affecting about 20 million people in the United States. Also called degenerative joint disease (DJD), OA is associated with joint injury and with the aging process. It is a chronic disease that causes deterioration of the joint cartilage and the formation of new bone (bone spurs) at the edges of the joints. Cartilage and synovial fluid are meant to provide a smooth, low friction transition between the ends of bones. When cartilage loses its elasticity and wears down, joint movement becomes less smooth. Eventually cartilage can completely erode and the opposing bone ends can rub together. This leads to pain that may be intermittent or chronic, to stiffness in the morning and after rest, to small pieces of bone and fragments of cartilage in the remaining synovial fluid, and to a loss of mobility.

OA occurs equally in men and women before age 55 but more often in women after that age. It is also common in athletes who sustain multiple joint injuries over time. The primary cause is mechanical (for example, joint damage caused by running or excess weight-bearing) but, more rarely, it may be metabolic, genetic, or chemical in nature. Obesity, muscle weakness, and other diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and hemochromatosis can increase the risk of developing OA and can exacerbate the symptoms associated with it. The joints most commonly affected by OA are those of the hips, knees, hands and fingers, big toe, neck, and lower back.

Tests

The goal of testing is to diagnose OA, to distinguish it from other forms of arthritis and causes of joint pain and stiffness, and to monitor the side effects of various treatments.

Laboratory Tests

There is no specific laboratory test to diagnose OA. It is diagnosed by a doctor using a patient’s medical history, a physical exam, X-rays, and in some cases with an examination of synovial fluid from an affected joint. Tests that may be ordered to rule out other conditions and to evaluate the patient’s health include:

Rheumatoid factor (RF) and Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide Antibody (CCP) – used to help diagnose rheumatoid arthritis and differentiate it from osteoarthritis.

Synovial fluid analysis – to detect crystals that may be present in the joint and to look for signs of joint infection.

Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (sed rate or ESR) – this test shows the presence of inflammation in the body. ESR will be increased in RA but not in osteoarthritis.

C-reactive protein test (CRP) —this test also indicates inflammation and tests for the activity of the disease. It may be used to help differentiate osteoarthritis and RA. An increased level of CRP occurs in RA but not in osteoarthritis.

Complete Blood Count (CBC) – this is a group of tests that are used to help evaluate the patient’s red and white blood cells and hemoglobin. It may be ordered to monitor the side effects of some OA treatments.

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) – this is a group of tests that may be used to help evaluate and monitor the patient’s kidney and liver function.

Non-Laboratory Tests

X-rays of the affected joints may show loss of cartilage and narrowing of the joint space but will frequently not show significant changes early in the disease.

MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) – may also be used to examine affected joints.

Cognitive enhancement is a multidimensional approach to prevent and treat cognitive (mental) decline that has been associated with aging and many degenerative diseases of aging.

What causes cognitive decline or memory loss?

Like many degenerative diseases of aging, memory loss spans a spectrum of symptoms, etiologies and prognosis. More than 55 illnesses, some non-progressive, can cause memory loss. The causes of dementias include vascular disorders, Parkinson’s disease, infections including HIV, depression, hypothyroidism, vitamin B12 deficiency, malnutrition and substance abuse.

What are the risk factors for memory loss?

There are several risk factors that interact with other biological processes to causes cognitive decline. Some of the risk factors for memory loss are increased age, family history, genetic factors, head injury, educational level, cardiovascular disease and chronic stress. The pathogenesis of cognitive decline is multifactor, yet it is clear that the final common event is the death of the brain cell.

What does a program of cognitive enhancement consist of?

Programs are multidimensional and seek to improve memory and brain function utilizing integrated therapies. The program includes nutrition enhancement through dietary modification and nutritional supplementation with such things as anti-oxidants, Phosphatidyl-serine, CoQ10, and Ginkgo Biloba. It also includes stress reduction through meditation, mind/body exercises, hormone replacement therapy, and the use of pharmaceutical agents.

What are some of the prescription medications that are used for cognitive enhancement?

There are new series of drugs known as ‘smart drugs’ as well as a category of medications known as ‘nootropics’ that are now available for use as part of an integrated program. Piracetam is a drug, which mimics neuro-growth factors and can stimulate the development of new synapses. It also helps promote interhemispheric communication. Centrophenoxime is a chemical that helps remove intracellular debris such as lipofuscian from nerve cells. Hydergine improves the oxygenation of the brain and Seligiline helps maintain the balance of neurotransmitters. Hormones such as melatonin, estrogen, DHEA and human growth hormone help to improve memory function.

What are the benefits? When should I begin a Cognitive Enhancement Program?

Memory loss is a disease that begins to affect the brain 30 – 40 years before symptoms begin. Therefore, it is important that everyone begin a program for the prevention of cognitive decline. Benefits include improvements in memory, concentration, learning ability, reduced risk of dementia and an increase in personal awareness that leads to feelings of connectedness, wisdom, maturity and greater life satisfaction.

What kind of improvement is possible and how long before I see results?

The human brain is akin to a muscle, and like a muscle, it’s either ‘use it or lose it’. In most individuals, it is possible to increase IQ 4-5% in the first year, and probably 2-3% per year afterwards. While this isn’t enough to make you feel instantly smarter, testing will demonstrate a definite improvement. You should notice better recall and clearer thinking within 2-3 weeks, and perception will be enhanced. Most importantly is the increased sense of being in control of your mental faculties and self-knowledge.

It is advisable to have other diagnostic studies performed as part of a complete anti-aging program.

Why should I get my level checked?

There are no obvious indicators that correlate with IGF-1 levels. To get the most out of treatment with any of the hGH products, it is important to know how each impacts our bodies. To achieve IGF-1 in the ideal range insures that the treatment will produce the results you desire and prevents the possibility of side effects from excessive levels.

How high is too high?

The negative side effects are observed only when the IGF-1 remains over 500 for a period of months.

Do I need to fast for the test?

No, and the best time to have it drawn is in the morning. You should always have it checked the same time of day and use the same lab for the most consistent results.

How often should I check my IGF-1?

Every three months while therapy is being adjusted then every six months.

What should the IGF-1 be?

The ideal target for IGF-1 should be 280-400 mcg/ml (slightly higher in females). Normally this is the value for 20-25 year olds. We find there is a wide variety of levels based on life-style and diet. Generally the normal values drop about 10% per decade.

Why don’t we just measure the hGH level?

HGH is released by the pituitary gland in a series of pulses. One series just after falling asleep, and another about two hours after rising in the morning. The amount of hGH in the blood is very small, and varies rapidly over time. This renders it unsuitable as a monitor of hGH activity. IGF-1 is much more abundant, is produced in direct response to hGH, and has a consistent diurnal pattern.

What is IGF-1?

IGF-1 is Insulin-Like Growth Factor. Liver cells form it when they are stimulated by human Growth Hormone (hGH). It is the compound that is responsible for many of the effects we see from hGH supplementation. It is also known as Somatomedin-C.

Does treatment of Growth Hormone deficiency increase the risk of diabetes or other diseases?

No studies have shown a statically significant increase in cancer incidence or diabetes in humans.

How is recombinant human Growth Hormone given?

Our protocol uses injectable hGH at a dose of approximately 0.4IU subcutaneously twice daily. This timing mimics the natural secretion of the hormone. Many previous studies were done using weekly, semi-weekly, or once daily dosing. This can cause the hGH level in the blood to rise far above the physiologically normal ranges. Adverse effects are almost exclusively limited to levels outside of the normal physiologic range.

What are the side effects of Growth Hormone therapy?

If hGH is given in excessive dosages over a long period of time, bone growth is initiated. As the growth plates are fused in adults, this results in a syndrome known as Achromegaly. Some of the other effects include carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis, vocal cord thickening, excess fluid, osteoporosis and heat intolerance. Again, these negative effects can occur with supraphysiologic doses. When initiating therapy, it is best to start with a low dose and gradually titrate it to the therapeutic window of 350-450 ng/ml. Levels need to be monitored every month for the first half year then every two months.

What is a secretagogue?

Secretagogues, or releasers, are substances that stimulate secreting organs. There are many substances that stimulate the release of growth hormone from the pituitary—these include several amino acids and drugs. Exercise is also a powerful releaser of growth hormone. Most good secretagoges elevate the IGF-1 level about 25-40%. The effect on individuals varies quite widely. These substances are particularly sensitive to the condition in which they are administered. If any other substances are taken that degrade the signal induced by the secretagogue, a reduced response will occur. For this reason it is important that they be taken on an empty stomach. Many authors and researchers recommend that secretagoges be cycled (stopped at intervals). The most common interval is the 12-week on, 2 weeks off combination.
If target ranges cannot be reached with secretagoges, an oral hGH spray or sublingual tablet may be added. These approaches result in a very rapid, small, spike of hGH in the blood. An elevation in the baseline IGF-1 occurs amounting to about a 25-40% rise. There should be a two-minute period before and after the spray or tablet that nothing else is put into the mouth.

How is Growth Hormone deficiency treated?

To maintain hGH at youthful levels requires an integrated monitored approach. A solid nutritional platform needs to be maintained, including vitamin and mineral supplements. An adequate amount of exercise needs to be maintained. Blood testing is essential to insure that adequate, but not excessive levels are achieved. Step-wise use of a secretagoge, recombinant hGH available as a spray or sublingual tablet, and finally, injectable recombinant hGH is utilized.

What are the benefits of Growth Hormone?

HGH stimulates anabolic activity in all areas of our bodies. Muscle mass is increased, skin becomes thicker and more flexible, our immune system is enhanced, fat is redistributed and lost more easily, increased stamina is achieved, mental attitude is improved, the blood cholesterol balance is shifted in a positive way, calcium is deposited in bone, and virtually all our other glands are restored. Resistance to both disease and cancer is also increased.

How does Growth Hormone work?

HGH travels through the general circulation and binds to receptor sites on nearly all cells of the body, though predominately in liver cells. Once the receptor site is occupied by a molecule of hGH, the liver cell is instructed to produce several messenger chemicals which include IGF-1, IGF-2, and others growth factors. These messengers are responsible for doing the work of hGH. IGF-1 level is used to monitor the hGH activity in our bodies.

What is human Growth Hormone (hGH)?

Growth Hormone is a protein made up of a sequence of 191 amino acids, which is released by the pituitary gland. The pituitary produces several hormones. Growth Hormone is the ‘[master hormone’, setting in motion several cascades of metabolic activity. Like many hormones, hGH is released in greater quantities when you’re young. Although the production of hGH only drops about 25% between the ages of 20 and 65, its release may actually drop 90%. This means that our bodies are operating in a deficiency state even though our pituitary is capable of producing an adequate amount as we age. By the time you are 60, you have only 15-20% of the hGH that you had when you were in your teens.

Anti-aging is a new medical subspecialty in which the aging process can be slowed, suspended and in some cases reversed. It came about as a shift in thinking from aging as an inevitable process to aging as a series of disease processes. Aging processes can be measured, and, as with any disease, there are symptoms and treatments.

Does a patient have to adopt a vegetarian diet to be successful?

The recommended diet is high in vegetable protein, fish and white-meat chicken. One should try to stay away from red meat because the liver, for example, has to work harder to convert the red meat proteins.

How quickly will a patient see results?

Improvement in energy is almost immediate. Significant differences usually take four to six months for DNA to regenerate in the body.

Is this a lifetime program?

Yes. It’s something you do for yourself the rest of your life.

What are cognitive enhancers?

Techniques to improve your mental acumen. Some involve natural herbs like gingko. Meditation is also an effective enhancer.

What kind of anti-aging supplements are prescribed?

As you age, you develop deficiencies in vitamins and minerals. A complete, balanced nutritional multi-vitamin, mineral and anti-oxidant complex is a major part of the treatment regime. You should ensure the quality of the substances you take, how much is absorbed by the body and not wasted, and whether it is pH balanced for acidity levels.

What is involved in hormone replacement therapy?

Hormones are chemical messengers that control bodily functions. Aging depletes the body’s hormonal levels. By measuring a patient’s level of hormones, a balanced hormone replacement can be prescribed to restore hormone levels to where they were in the patient’s early 30s. In many cases, this can be done naturally with secretogogues, which release the hormones already made by the body.

How is aging measured?

Medical tests called biomarkers actually indicate signs of aging at different levels down to DNA. At the functional level, things such as visual accommodation, auditory response and memory succession are tested. At the cellular level, a skin biopsy may be performed. To check biochemicals, hormones and cholesterol are checked. And to check for hereditary matter, DNA can be reviewed.

Is this a ‘fountain of youth?’

This is a program to extend the useful years of your life and improve the quality of those years.

How many years can a patient’s life be extended?

It depends upon the patient’s motivation, how early in life that treatment is started and how compliant the patient is. A reasonable expectation for someone who begins a rigorous program in their mid 30s could be an extra 10 to 20 years or more.

How do we know it’s safe medicine?

Anti-aging is a recognized medical subspecialty, and is measurable and documentable.

Can the aging process be reversed? Can someone feel young again?

Many patients can feel and function young again through restoring muscle loss, increased skin thickness, reduced total body fat and improved bone density. Patients have seen specific improvements in skin tightness and moisture, mental speed and clarity, enhanced sexual function, elevated mood and energy levels, improved aerobic capacity, greater immune function and increased wound-healing capacity.

Is this just for seniors and retirees? Who would benefit from this the most? When is it too late?

It’s almost never too late; however, the sooner you begin, the more benefits you derive from an improved quality of life. The people who benefit most are those who are motivated to stay healthy in their later years. It’s not just for seniors or retirees. Just as you save for retirement with pensions, preventive geriatrics helps you save for a healthier future.

Does anti-aging follow accepted medical procedures?

Anti-aging is a new subspecialty just like emergency medicine and family practice were 20 to 30 years ago. The first board certification exam for anti-aging physicians took place in 1997.

How does anti-aging medicine differ from wellness and holistic medicine?

Anti-aging medicine is a comprehensive practice of preventive medicine that incorporates components of holistic and wellness medicine, but goes beyond them with board-certified physicians utilizing specific high-tech testing procedures and medical treatments. Wellness and holistic medicine don’t generally deal in conventional therapies.

A tetrahedral carbon atom with 4 distinct constituents is said to be chiral. The one amino acid not exhibiting chirality is glycine since it’s ‘”R-group” is a hydrogen atom. Chirality describes the handedness of a molecule that is observable by the ability of a molecule to rotate the plane of polarized light either to the right (dextrorotatory) or to the left (levorotatory). All of the amino acids in proteins exhibit the same absolute steric configuration as L-glyceraldehyde. Therefore, they are all L-a-amino acids. D-amino acids are never found in proteins, although they exist in nature. D-amino acids are often found in polypeptide antibiotics.

The aromatic R-groups in amino acids absorb ultraviolet light with an absorbance maximum in the range of 280nm. The ability of proteins to absorb ultraviolet light is predominantly due to the presence of the tryptophan which strongly absorbs ultraviolet light.

Vitamin D, also known as the Sunshine Vitamin, is responsible for the processing of calcium for strong bones. It can be found in fortified foods such as milk, cheese, grains and in food such as eggs, fish and fish liver oil. Supplements can provide additional vitamin D but the primary source of the vitamin is from the sun. Only 10-15 minutes of sun exposure 2 to 3 times per week is enough to provide adequate vitamin D, however, Americans’ increasing concerns about skin cancer leading to avoidance of the sun and increased use of sunscreen, which blocks vitamin D absorption, is thought to play a major role in vitamin D deficiency. With winter approaching and the resulting reduced hours of daylight, it will be even harder to get enough sun exposure. Additionally, darker skin, certain medications, some intestinal diseases, such as Crohn’s and celiac disease, as well as obesity can reduce the body’s ability to absorb vitamin D.

We now know that it is almost impossible to acquire enough vitamin D from diet alone. A supplement or sun exposure is required to reach recommended amounts of vitamin D. The current recommendation is that children should receive 5 mcg or 200 IU per day while adults 50 and over should receive 10 mcg or 400 IU per day. The National Osteporosis Foundation is recommending 800-1000 IU per day with an upper limit of 2000 IU but there are concerns of possible side effects with extremely large doses.

Symptoms of a deficiency could be bone pain, muscle weakness, low energy and depression but frequently symptoms are subtle or nonexistent. The list of possible health problems includes osteoporosis and osteoarthritis, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, severe asthma and other lung diseases, and an increased risk in cancer, specifically of the breast, colon, prostate and pancreas. Vitamin D deficiency has also been linked to Type 2 Diabetes and autoimmune diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis and Crohn’s disease. There is even evidence that it could lead to cognitive impairment in older adults. According to the Mayo Health Clinic the health benefits of adequate amounts of vitamin D are numerous, especially in older adults. Getting screened for vitamin D and taking steps to ensure that you are getting an adequate amount of the vitamin can help prevent serious health issues and improve your quality of life.

• Rickets and other bone malformations
• Increased risk of death for cardiovascular disease
• Cancer
• Severe asthma in children
• Cognitive impairment in older adults

What Causes Vitamin D Deficiency?
There are a number of potential reasons for someone to suffer from a low level of vitamin D.


Limited Sun Exposure
Most obvious is that your exposure to sunlight is, or has been, limited. This can often be attributed to the increased use of sunscreen – especially in older adults. It can also be the result of seasonal factors. For example, the shorter winter days experienced by Americans in the North and Northeast of the U.S.


Reduced Dietary Vitamin D
It’s also possible that some people don’t get enough Vitamin D in their diet. This can be especially true for strict vegetarians as most foods that contain vitamin D tend to be animal–based (fish, egg yolks, beef liver).


You Have Darker Skin
Individuals with darker skin have higher levels of melanin which reduces the skin’s ability to product vitamin D in response to sunlight.


You Are Obese
Vitamin D is extracted by fat cells which alters it’s release into the circulation. Studies have shown that individuals with body mass indexes of 30 or more, may be at greater risk for experiencing low levels of vitamin D.


Normal Range: VITAMIN D 25, HYDROXY: 16.0 – 74.0 ng/mL


High Results Indicate: Elevated levels may indicate hypervitaminosis D which can lead to high calcium levels.


Low Results Indicate: Low levels may indicate lack of adequate levels of Vitamin D in the diet, liver and kidney disease, malabsorption, low blood calcium levels or thin or weak bones.

An STD is any disease that is spread primarily by sexual contact. One partner transmits the disease-causing organism to the other partner during sex (oral/vaginal/anal/etc.). Not all diseases that affect the sex organs are sexually transmitted. Some are not at all connected with sex. Other diseases are simply sexually associated, not transmitted.

To find out more about STDs and testing, contact us.

How do I get the std testing results?

You come to our facility and our friendly, trained staff will gently draw a blood sample and send it out to the lab. Most results will be back within 24-48 hr. You can come and pick up your results, or we can or you can view your lab results online.

With your email address and random generated password you are also able to login into your account. The account get setup during your visit once you let us know how you like to receive the results.

No need to pick up the results. You have access to the results at any time and any place.

See below for the Best Competitor Prices ( STDTESTEXPRESS ):

Best Competitor Prices ( STDTESTEXPRESS )

Low Price Guarantee

WE WILL NOT BE UNDERSOLD

“We will beat any locally advertised price for any lab test we offer at our local facility.”

If you find a lower locally advertised price for one of our STD lab tests, bring a copy of the advertisement to our local testing facility within 7 days of ordering your lab test from ANY LAB TEST NOW®, and our staff will review the details. If the advertised price is verified, we will beat the price.

Better sexual health and peace of mind? Priceless.

Your thyroid is more important than you think. The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck and is an integral part of your endocrine system. The endocrine system is made up of glands which regulate the function, growth and development of virtually every cell, tissue and organ in the body by secreting chemicals called hormones directly into the bloodstream. When endocrine disorders develop, too much or too little hormone is secreted by a specific gland because the gland stops functioning properly due to illness, surgical removal or natural causes.

Thyroid dysfunction occurs when the thyroid produces either too much thyroid hormone, which causes your body’s systems to speed up (hyperthyroidism), or too little hormone, which causes your body’s systems to slow down (hypothyroidism). Both negatively impact your overall health and well-being.

Untreated thyroid disease may lead to elevated cholesterol levels and subsequent heart disease, as well as infertility and osteoporosis. Research also indicates a strong genetic link between thyroid disease and other autoimmune disease, including certain types of diabetes, arthritis, and anemia.

Thyroid disorders affect an estimated 200 million people worldwide, and an estimated 27 million Americans. More than half remain undiagnosed. In fact, thyroid disease is more common than diabetes and heart disease.

What is included in the tests?

TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone). A TSH test measures the amount of thyroid stimulating hormone in your blood. TSH is produced by the pituitary gland and tells the thyroid gland to make and release the hormones Thyroxine (T4) and Triiodothyronine (T3). Triiodothyronine (T3) and Thyroxine (T4) help control your body’s metabolism. Nearly every cell in your body depends on normal T4 and T3 levels to maintain its optimal function.

Free T4 (Thyroxine). T4 is the predominant thyroid hormone produced by the thyroid gland. Free T4 measures the T4 hormone that is not bound to protein; therefore it is ready for use by the body. Measuring free T4 rather than total T4 is a more accurate assessment of thyroid status.

Free T3 (Triiodothyronine). T3 is the most active thyroid hormone. Some T3 is produced by the thyroid, but most of the T3 comes from conversion of T4 to T3 which occurs in body but outside the thyroid. Free T3 measures the available (non-protein bound) T3 hormone and its measurement is very useful in assessing thyroid balance, particularly in hyperthyroidism.

Thyroid Antibodies. Thyroid Antibodies are tested for evidence of autoimmune thyroid diseases, such as Hashimoto’s or Graves’ disease. Thyroid antibodies may remain positive for years, and do not provide an indication of whether the person has normal or abnormal thyroid function. Furthermore, some patients with Hashimoto’s disease may have negative levels of circulating antibodies, and conversely, patients with positive levels of thyroid antibodies may never develop thyroid disease during their lifetime.

Do I need to fast before taking the test?

No. Fasting is not required before a thyroid function lab test.

Do I need approval from my insurance company before testing?

These services are not covered by insurance. Therefore, you do not need approval from your insurance company before having a thyroid test.

Do I need a referral from my health care provider in order to use ANY LAB TEST NOW®?

No, it is not necessary to have a referral to use ANY LAB TEST NOW®.

What types of payment do you accept?

We accept cash, and all credit cards like Visa, MasterCard and American Express.

How will I receive my test results?

Test results will be available within 72 hours.

How does thyroid hormone testing differ from a saliva test or a finger-stick blood test?

Saliva testing is an unproven technology and is not medically recognized by most accredited medical communities for thyroid assessment. Because the sensitivity of saliva testing hasn’t been clearly established, saliva testing has proven to be inconsistent and unreliable, not to mention more expensive. Finger prick spot blood tests are also unreliable and expensive and do not adhere to any medical standards for testing thyroid function.

Our DOT qualified collectors will provide your driver with the 5-panel lab-based drug test that is regulated by DOT Code 49, Part 40. We follow the guidelines, stay up to date on the rules and follow the DOT protocols for urine specimen collection, and provide the tests you need. You have peace of mind knowing that the staff of ANY LAB TEST NOW is conducting your DOT drug testing.

We only use a SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) certified lab to make sure that the DOT high quality test is guaranteed.

Click Here to Make Appointment for your DOT Drug Test Today

You might think an at-home DNA test is an easier way to go. But there are plenty of reasons why you might want to consider ANY LAB TEST NOW® instead.

ANY LAB TEST NOW® can be the neutral third party in case you and your partner don’t trust each other’s results.

Unfortunately, we’ve seen it happen. The alleged father might do a paternity test at home, but the mother doesn’t believe those results because she thinks the father might have tampered with them. By coming to us at ANY LAB TEST NOW® – even separately if you like – you have one independent party doing the swabbing and confirming clear, solid results for both parties once and for all.

ANY LAB TEST NOW® can help you find the right test if one partner is not available for a paternity test?

It’s hard for a box to answer that question. But our trained specialists at ANY LAB TEST NOW® are there for you to answer any sort of inquiries or concerns you have about your test. It’s the personal touch that no at-home test can match.

Plus, a test with ANY LAB TEST NOW® can be every bit as confidential as an at-home DNA test.

So don’t leave a sensitive situation like a DNA test in the hands of an alternative. Trust ANY LAB TEST NOW® to deliver the better experience you deserve.

FAQ DNA Testing

What if one partner is not available for a paternity test?

For example, let’s say the alleged father is not available. At ANY LAB TEST NOW®, we have other paternity tests which done through relatives of that potential parent, like aunts, uncles, grandparents, etc.

What if you have any kind of question about the results?

It’s hard for a box to answer that question. But our trained specialists at ANY LAB TEST NOW® are there for you to answer any sort of inquiries or concerns you have about your test. It’s the personal touch that no at-home test can match.

For more Questions check out the FAQ section on the top of the page or contact us.

The Hair 5-Panel Drug Screen tests for the following drugs:

1. Amphetamines (includes Methamphetamines and Ecstasy)

2. Cocaine

3. Marijuana (THC)

4. Opiates (Heroin, Morphine, Codeine)

5. Phencyclidine (PCP)

The Hair 7-Panel Drug Screen tests for the following drugs:

1. Amphetamines (includes Methamphetamines and Ecstasy)

2. Cocaine

3. Marijuana (THC)

4. Opiates (Heroin, Morphine, Codeine)

5. Phencyclidine (PCP)

6. Oxycodone and Oxymorphone

7. Hydrocodone and Hydromorphone

The Hair 10-Panel Drug Screen tests for the following drugs:

1. Amphetamines

2. Cocaine

3. Marijuana (THC)

4. Opiates (Heroin, Morphine, Codeine)

5. Phencyclidine (PCP)

6. Oxycodone and Oxymorphone

7. Hydrocodone and Hydromorphone

8. Barbiturates

9. Benzodiazepines

10. Methamphetamine (includes Methamphetamines and Ecstasy)

The Benefits of Hair Follicle Drug Testing:

• A hair follicle test can detect drug use for up to 90 days after use.
• There are no solid adulterants or available substitutions to a hair follicle drug test, making this test difficult to ‘cheat’.
• ANY LAB TEST NOW® hair follicle tests are Court Admissible


How is a Hair Test Collected?
A hair drug test is actually quite simple and requires only a small volume of hair.

The hair sample is cut close to the scalp and 80 to 120 strands of hair are needed for the test. In the absence of hair on the head, body hair can be used as an acceptable substitute. Even if the person being tested has a shaved head, hair can also be taken from almost any other area of the body. This includes facial hair, the underarms, arms, and legs.

The hair is put into a chemical solution to rid the hair of all external contaminants and is then liquefied and tested for drugs.

How far back can a hair drug test detect?

In most cases, hair drug testing can detect drug use for up to 90 days after use. The detection window is much larger in hair drug testing because trace amounts of drug chemicals become trapped inside each hair. Like fingernail testing, hair follicles are composed of a hard protein called keratin and are tested with the same process as fingernails. Drugs are incorporated into the hair’s fibers from the blood stream and remain locked in the hair as it grows.

Our friendly staff will assist you with any questions you have and will treat each case as discreetly as possible.

Click Here to Make Appointment for your Hair Drug Test Today…

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/drug-testing/b-hair-drug-testing.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/drug-testing/a-urine-drug-testing.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/drug-testing/a-urine-drug-testing.html#comments Wed, 24 Mar 2010 14:59:39 +0000 admin http://labbocaraton.com/index.php/?p=1612 Read More]]> Take a comprehensive Urine Drug Test today!

Urine drug tests include our 5 panel urine drug test and our 10 panel urine drug test.

Results for the urinalysis are ready within minutes

• You can choose from a 5 or 10 panel drug test which we perform at our facility. Results are reading in 5 minutes. You will get an official report of the results.
  We recommend that a non-negative urine drug test sample be sent to a lab to confirm the results. Lab results will be available within 1-3 days.
  
  

• The 5 panel rapid drug test screens for the following drugs:
  Methamphetamine/Amphetamine, Opiates, Cocaine, PCP, Marijuana.
  
  
• The 10 panel rapid drug test screens for the following drugs:
  Methamphetamine/Amphetamine, Opiates, Cocaine, PCP, Marijuana, Barbiturates, Benzodiazepines, Ecstasy, PCP, Oxycodone.
  
  
• We can customize all of our drug panels to fit your needs.




An *Instant Urine Drug Test

The urine drug screen is one of the most popular drug tests administered by our lab. A 10-panel urinalysis screens for 10 different types of drugs; including prescription drugs. Our 10-panel drug test results are usually available in about eight minutes.

Urine Drug Test Procedure

During a urinalysis screen, fresh urine is collected in a clear container. During the collection we maintain a controlled environment to reduce tampering with the urine specimen and false results. Test wicks are then dipped into the urine for 20 to 30 seconds.

Drug Test Results

Our lab tests for illegal drugs such as cocaine, angel dust, heroin, and marijuana. Because some legal prescription drugs can also become abused and dangerous for employees, we also test for those.

ANY LAB TEST NOW® is the specialist in drug testing

ANY LAB TEST NOW® promises to keep your results completely confidential. Test result won’t go into your medical records. You can even test anonymously.

Our friendly staff will assist you with any questions you have and will treat each case as discreetly as possible.

The staff at ANY LAB TEST NOW is fully DOT qualified and follow the DOT protocols for urine specimen collection. We use a SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) certified lab to make sure that high quality testing is guaranteed.

Urine drug screens are used for pre-employment drug screening and private drug screening.

Feel free to give us a call at (561) 237-5009 if you have any questions.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/drug-testing/a-urine-drug-testing.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/drug-testing/why-us-drug-screening.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/drug-testing/why-us-drug-screening.html#comments Wed, 24 Mar 2010 14:01:10 +0000 admin http://labbocaraton.com/index.php/?p=1604 Read More]]> ANY LAB TEST NOW® is specialist in Drug Testing Lab.

At ANY LAB TEST NOW, we offer several drug tests affordable, conveniently and anonymously. All drug screens are performed by qualified DOT collectors and sent to a SAMHSA certified laboratory.

We perform a number of different drug tests varying from urine, blood, nails or hair. We also can identify suspicious substances like pills or powder.

Avoid waiting in the typical, crowded unsanitary laboratory for your turn! Here at ANY LAB TEST NOW, we guarantee the best courtesy and respect in our facility.

You will be in and out in 15 minutes with the ability of having your results back instantly

All of our tests are 100% confidential. No doctor referrals needed. No unwanted questions. Just the tests you need when you need it.

At ANY LAB TEST NOW we help you with all your drug screening needs:

Private drug screens: • Employer Solutions, Click here • Parents who want to drug screen their teens, Click here • People who want to do “the test before the test” for a job, Click here • For your own knowledge, Click here • Teen Drug Screening program, Click here • Used as evidence in court, Click here

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/drug-testing/why-us-drug-screening.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/drug-testing/sport-drug-testing.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/drug-testing/sport-drug-testing.html#comments Mon, 22 Mar 2010 00:28:13 +0000 admin http://labbocaraton.com/index.php/?p=1584 Read More]]> Over the past decade, anabolic steroid abuse and the use of other performance-enhancing drugs has become a national concern. Androgenic-anabolic steroids and other performance-enhancing drugs are banned by major amateur and professional sports authorities. ANY LAB TEST NOW panel steroid testing detects more than 20 different anabolic agents (and their metabolites) commonly used by bodybuilders, distance runners and other athletes.

These panels utilize gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) technology for drug identification and confirmation.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/drug-testing/sport-drug-testing.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/drug-testing/drug-testing-faq.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/drug-testing/drug-testing-faq.html#comments Thu, 18 Mar 2010 12:25:28 +0000 admin http://labbocaraton.com/index.php/?p=1411 Read More]]> Why Do Employers Drug Test?

Alcohol and drug abuse create significant safety and health hazards and can result in decreased productivity and poor employee morale. It also can lead to additional costs in the form of health care claims, especially short-term disability claims. Common reasons employers implement drug testing are to:

• Deter employees from abusing alcohol and drugs
• Prevent hiring individuals who use illegal drugs
• Be able to identify early and appropriately refer employees who have drug and/or alcohol problems
• Provide a safe workplace for employees
• Protect the general public and instill consumer confidence that employees are working safely
• Comply with State laws or Federal regulations
• Benefit from Workers’ Compensation Premium Discount programs

Why Drug Screening?
Because America’s drug problem is much bigger than most people assume. Read More

When are Drug Tests Conducted?

There are a variety of circumstances under which an organization may require a drug test.

• Pre-Employment: Pre-employment testing is conducted to prevent hiring individuals who illegally use drugs. Applicants agree to be tested as a condition of employment and are not hired if they fail to produce a negative test.
• Reasonable Suspicion: Reasonable suspicion testing is similar to, and sometimes referred to, as “probable-cause” or “for-cause” testing and is conducted when supervisors document observable signs and symptoms that lead them to suspect drug use or a drug-free workplace policy violation..
• Post-Accident: Since property damage or personal injury may result from accidents, testing following an accident can help determine whether drugs and/or alcohol were a factor.
• Random: Random testing is performed unannounced on employees. This selection is computer generated to ensure that it is indeed random and that each person of the workforce population has an equal chance of being selected for testing, regardless of whether that person was recently tested or not. Because this type of testing has no advance notice, it serves as a deterrent.
• Return-to-Duty: Return-to-duty testing involves a one-time, announced test when an employee who has tested positive has completed the required treatment for substance abuse and is ready to return to the workplace.
• Promotion: Applicants agree to be tested as a condition of employment and are not promoted if they fail to produce a negative test.




What is a Chain of Custody?
A chain-of-custody form is used to document the handling and storage of a sample from the time it is collected until the time it is disposed. It links an individual to his or her sample and is written proof of all that happens to the specimen while at the collection site and the laboratory.



What is a Confirmation Test?
A second, confirmation test (by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry or GC/MS) is highly accurate and provides specificity to help rule out any false positives (Non-Negatives) from the initial screen. For a test result to be reported as positive, the initial screen and confirmation test results must agree.



What are the Collection Procedures and Protocol?
We follow strict Department of Transportation Collection Procedures and Protocol and SAMSHA guidelines including:

• Proper identification of the donor
• Secure collection facility, minimizing potential for adulteration of specimens
• Check for possible adulteration of each specimen
• Completion of Custody and Control forms following Chain of Custody protocol
• Storage and transportation to SAMSHA confirmatory labs of all Non-Negative & DOT specimens
• Secure reporting of results to designated employer representative via secure fax or email




What Types of Specimens Does ANY LAB TEST NOW Collect?
Non-invasive specimens are collected (Urine, Hair & Saliva). Urine is the most commonly used specimen for illicit drugs, reflecting SAMHSA’s guidelines.


Urine: Results of a urine test show the presence or absence of drug metabolites in a person’s urine. Metabolites are drug residues that remain in the body for some time after the effects of a drug have worn off. It is important to note that a positive urine test does not necessarily mean a person was under the influence of drugs at the time of the test.


Hair: Analysis of hair provides a much longer “testing window,” giving a more complete drug-use history going back as far as 90 days. Like urine testing, hair testing does not provide evidence of current impairment, but rather only past use of a specific drug. Hair testing cannot be used to detect for alcohol use. Hair testing is the least invasive form of drug testing, therefore privacy issues are decreased.


Oral Fluids: Saliva, or oral fluids, collected from the mouth also can be used to detect traces of alcohol. Oral fluids are easy to collect (a swab of the inner cheek is the most common collection method), harder to adulterate or substitute, and may be better at detecting current use and impairment.



What Drugs Does ANY LAB TEST NOW Test For?

• AMP Amphetamine
• BAR Barbiturates
• BZO Benzodiazepines
• COC Cocaine
• m-AMP Methamphetamine
• MDMA 3,4
• Methylenedioxy-methamphetamine
• MTD Methadone
• OPI2 Opiates
• PCP Phencyclidine
• THC Cannabinioids / Marijuana




What is Hair Drug testing?

Hair testing is the most accurate and effective method of finding users of drugs of abuse. Using a small sample of hair cut at the scalp, hair analysis evaluates the amount of drug metabolites embedded inside the hair shaft.

How Long are Drugs in One’s System?
Drugs have certain “detection windows”—the amount of time after ingestion during which evidence of their use can be detected by a drug test.

Drug Tested	Also known As	10 Panel Test	5 Panel Test	Detection Time in Urine
AMP Amphetamine	Speed	X	X	1 – 2 Days
BAR Barbiturates	Downers, Barbs, Goof Balls, Reds,Yellow Jackets	X		2 Days - 3 Weeks
BZO Benzodiazepines	Bennies	X		3 Days - 6 Weeks
COC Cocaine	Coke, Crack, Rock cocaine	X	X	2 – 4 Days
MAMP Methamphetamine	Speed, Ice, Chrystal, Crank	X	X	1 – 2 Days
MDMA 3,4 Methylenedioxy-methamphetamine	Ecstasy, XTC, ADAM, Lover’s Speed	X		1 – 2 Days
MTD Methadone	Fizzies	X		3 Days
OPI2 Opiates	Codeine	X	X	2 Days
PCP Phencyclidine		X		6 hrs - 2 Days
THC Cannabinioids / Marijuana	Dope, Weed, Hemp, Hash, Colombian, Sinsemilla	X	X	2 Days - 2 Months

Hair testing for drugs of abuse provides up to a 90-day drug use history. This makes hair testing from Employer Solutions an ideal solution for pre-employment and random testing protocols. Detection period for body hairs can be much longer. ANY LAB TEST NOW® offers Hair Drug Testing using hair from scalp as well as body hair.

Unknown substance hair testing

Any Lab Test Now® can test your hair sample for unknown substance and drugs. An unknown poison and toxin analysis tests for unknown chemicals, poisons and toxins that include but are not limited to pesticides, organic exposure chemicals, painting or cleaning products, rodent poison, volatiles and inhalants. This analysis does not test for drugs or heavy metals. No two situations are alike, so contact ANY LAB TEST NOW® for assistance if you suspect poisoning or toxic exposure.

How is Drug Testing Conducted?

Generally, most private employers have a fair amount of latitude in implementing drug testing as they see fit for their organization, unless they are subject to certain Federal regulations, such as the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) drug-testing rules for employees in safety-sensitive positions. However, Federal agencies conducting drug testing must follow standardized procedures established by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).

While private employers are not required to follow these guidelines, doing so can help them stay on safe legal ground. Court decisions have supported following these guidelines, and as a result, many employers choose to follow them. These Mandatory Guidelines for Federal Workplace Drug Testing (also called SAMHSA’s guidelines) include having a Medical Review Officer (MRO) evaluate tests.

The most common method of drug testing, urinalysis, an employee or applicant provides a sample to be tested. Usually precautions are taken, such as putting blue dye in the toilet to prevent adulteration or substitution of specimens so that collection can be completed in privacy without any direct visual observation by another person.

Under SAMHSA’s guidelines, once a sample is provided, it is sent to a certified laboratory. The accuracy of drug tests done by certified laboratories is very high, but this certification applies only to the five substances tested for in Federal drug-testing programs and alcohol.

Drug Also Known As Overview:

Drug Tested	Also Known As
AMP Amphetamine/ Methamphetamine	Speed, Uppers, Whites, Dexies, Crank, Black Beauties, Benny, Crystal, Jelly Beans, White Cross
BAR Barbiturates	Downers, Barbs, Goof Balls, Reds, Yellows, Blues, Dolls, M&M’s, Red Devils
BZO Benzodiazepines	Bennies, Downers, Tranqs
COC Cocaine	Coke, Crack, Rock cocaine
MDMA 3,4 Methylenedioxy-methamphetamine	Ecstasy, XTC, ADAM, Lover’s Speed, X, Hug Drug, Beans, Love Drug
MTD Methadone	Fizzies, Done, Dolophine, Methadose, Dolls
OPI Opiates	Codeine (School Boy), Morphine (M, Miss Emma), Heroin (Smack, Horse, Junk, China White)
PCP Phencyclidine	Angel Dust, Devil Stick, Dummy Dust, Wack
THC Cannabinioids / Marijuana	Dope, Weed, Hemp, Hash, Colombian, Sinsemilla, Pot, Reefer, Joint, Smoke, Weed

Difference between Urine and Hair Drug Screen

Many employers find it useful to test both hair and urine for pre-employment purposes. Urine is useful for detecting recent or new drug use (last 1-3 days except Marijuana which is longer) and hair for providing an approximate three-month drug history.


Can Hair testing be beaten?

We have not found any adulterants that can beat the test at this time. Moreover, the risk is minimized because every collection is directly and easily observed. Bleaches, shampoos and external contaminants (i.e. marijuana smoke) have no known impact on test results. Our testing method measures the drug molecules embedded inside the hair shaft, eliminating external contamination as a source of a positive test result. Hair testing results cannot be altered with shampoos or other external chemicals.


How are the hair samples collected?

In order to be fair to the donor, we must have enough hair to repeat assays if necessary. ANY LAB TEST NOW® may use head, chest, underarm, leg, or face hair for collection.


Valid and Admissible in Court

ANY LAB TEST NOW takes Hair Follicle Test samples under strict Chain of Custody Procedures. The Test can include third Party Medical Review Officer (MRO) verification. ANY LAB TEST NOW® hair drug test results are court defensible.


Is Anonymous Hair Testing Possible?

Yes, as with many other tests Hair Follicle Testing can be taken anonymously.


Can hair collected from a brush be used?

Yes, the test will be reported as having an “anonymous” donor.



For more Questions please call us at (561) 237-5009.



ANY LAB TEST NOW
23016 Sandalfoot Plaza Dr.
Boca Raton, FL33428
Phone: 561-237-5009
Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm
Sat: 9am-2pm
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/drug-testing/drug-testing-faq.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/drug-testing/alcohol-screen.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/drug-testing/alcohol-screen.html#comments Thu, 18 Mar 2010 12:18:55 +0000 admin http://labbocaraton.com/index.php/?p=1406 Read More]]> ANY LAB TEST NOW® offers 4 different Alcohol tests which can detect alcohol at different time frames.

1) Rapid Alcohol Screen: Alco Screen 02 (D.O.T. Approved), $29

2) Detection up to 24 hrs: Urine Alcohol Test (with / without drug panel), $59

3) Detection up to 80 hours Test for Alcohol: EtG Test (with / without drug panel), $69

4) Detection up to 3 months: Hair EtG Alcohol Test, $197




1) Test For Alcohol, Alcoscreen 02 (D.O.T. Approved)

• One-step saliva based test used to detect a Blood Alcohol Content greater than 0.02%
• FDA Approved
• Approved for use by the United States DOT (Department of Transportation)
• Results within 4 minutes




2) Urine Alcohol Test

• The urine specimen is sent to the lab for testing
• With our without drug panel
• Detection up to 24 hrs




3) 80 Hour Test for Alcohol: EtG Test

Yes, there really is an 80 hour test for alcohol. It is a urine screening procedure that detects a metabolite of alcohol called Ethyl glucuronide (EtG).

“EtG: A Strong Indicator of Alcohol Consumption”

The detection of alcohol in the urine typically employs Ethyl glucuronide (EtG), a direct metabolite of ethanol alcohol. The presence of EtG in the urine is used to detect recent alcohol consumption, even after the ethanol alcohol is no longer detectable by other methods.

As a consequence, the existence of EtG in the urine is an authoritative indicator that alcohol has been ingested.
Traditional laboratory practices usually measure the amount of alcohol present in the body.

Depending on the amount of alcohol consumed, the traditional methodology typically reveals alcohol consumption that has taken place within the past few hours.

The presence of EtG in the urine, alternatively, demonstrates that ethanol alcohol was ingested within the past 3 or 4 days, or roughly 80 hours after the ethanol alcohol has been metabolized by the body. The Urine EtG test can be ordered with our without drug panel.

80 Hour Test for Alcohol: Conclusion:

It is this 80-hour period of time that has given this alcohol test the following name: the 80 hour test for alcohol.

As a result of the above facts, it can be determined that a urine alcohol test employing EtG is a more accurate indicator of the recent consumption of alcohol as opposed to simply measuring for the existence of ethanol alcohol.




4) Hair EtG Alcohol Test

The Hair EtG Alcohol Test will test if the donor is teetotaler, a social drinker or heavy drinker.

• The hair specimen is sent to the lab for EtG hair alcohol testing
• Hair at least 1 ½” long is collected for use in this test
• Detection up to 3 months
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/drug-testing/alcohol-screen.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/workplace-drug-testing/employmentprescreening.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/workplace-drug-testing/employmentprescreening.html#comments Thu, 18 Mar 2010 12:11:59 +0000 admin http://labbocaraton.com/index.php/?p=1400 Read More]]> ANY LAB TEST NOW® provides conveniently and affordable drug testing in your local area. We have work-friendly hours, including Saturdays, your employee is in and out in 15 minutes and we don’t charge set-up or monthly fees.

Urine testing, one of the most common screening methods, is an accurate and reliable way to detect casual drug use that occurred within the past 72 hours. The accuracy of a urine drug test is dependent on how the testing is done. Drug testing is extremely accurate and reliable when all aspects of the testing process are done properly. On the other hand, the information obtained may be very misleading and inaccurate when poor procedures or testing methods are used.

The staff at ANY LAB TEST NOW is fully DOT qualified and follows strict specimen collection and chain-of-custody guidelines. Every sample is sent out to a SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) certified lab to make sure that high quality testing is guaranteed. Urine drug screens are used for pre-employment drug screening, random drug screening and private drug screening.

We provide the following services:

• Collection of Urine, Hair or Blood Sample
• Rapid Screens
• Fast Services: 15 min In & Out, Guaranteed
• Laboratory Confirmation (on Presumptive Positive Drug Screens)
• Medical Review Officer (MRO)
• World-Class Personal Customer Service
• DOT & Non-DOT
• On site Drug Testing


We can test for a 5 or 10 panel:


5 Panel Urine Drug Testing	10 Panel Urine Drug Testing
AMP Amphetamine COC Cocaine m-AMP Methamphetamine OPI Opiates THC Cannabinioids / Marijuana	5 Panel Plus: BAR Barbiturates BZO Benzodiazepines MDMA 3,4 Methylenedioxy-methamphetamine MTD Methadone PCP Phencyclidine

Accurate Drug Test Results… Fast!

Our employer drug testing solution provides you a unique advantage. ANY LAB TEST NOW provides the employer with online access to all of your drug testing results (at no additional charge).

Through our secure employer online portal you will know exactly which employees have been tested, have results with one click, and have the ability to have an employee random testing pool created. Fast, easy, convenient information that can be accessed anywhere, anytime using your unique user name and password.

Hair testing for drugs of abuse provides up to a 90-day drug use history. This makes hair testing an ideal solution for pre-employment and random testing protocols. Detection period for body hairs can be much longer. ANY LAB TEST NOW offers Hair Drug Testing using hair from scalp as well as body hair.









Contact us Today to review your needs and ask for a free quote.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/workplace-drug-testing/employmentprescreening.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/special-page-testtest/test-6.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/special-page-testtest/test-6.html#comments Wed, 17 Mar 2010 23:02:47 +0000 admin http://labbocaraton.com/index.php/?p=1372 test
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/special-page-testtest/test-6.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/drug-testing/medical-review-officer.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/drug-testing/medical-review-officer.html#comments Thu, 11 Mar 2010 13:54:36 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=1154 Read More]]> Medical Review Officer (MRO) A licensed physician, independent from the Laboratory, who is certified and possesses knowledge in the field of substance abuse, pharmacology and toxicology drug testing. Free Workplace

The MRO has the following responsibilities:

• (1) Determine that the information on the drug testing Custody and Control Form (CCF) is forensically and scientifically supportable.
• (2) Interview the donor when required.
• (3) Make a determination regarding the test result.
• (4) Report the verified result to the employer or agency ordering the test.
• (5) Maintain records and confidentiality of the information.

Any drug that is illegal or requires a prescription in the United States will require a medical explanation if discovered in a urine drug test. The MRO gives the donor an opportunity to provide a legitimate medical explanation, such as a legal prescription, for the positive test result. If the explanation and subsequent proof are appropriate, the MRO will report a negative test result to the employer. If the explanation and proof are not appropriate, the MRO will report a positive test result to the employer.

The use of the Medical Review Officer greatly enhances the validity and reliability of the overall drug testing process. This process helps ensure fairness to the donor and offers more protection to the employer/agency in any case of later litigation due to a “positive” drug test where the donor may have actually had a legitimate medical explanation. It is the job of the MRO to ensure the integrity of the drug test, and without an MRO, there is no assurance of this integrity, and no court should uphold a positive test result not reviewed by a Medical Review Officer.

Set up an account and you will receive special discounts and a sticker, which states that you are certified drug free workplace by ANY LAB TEST NOW®.


]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/drug-testing/medical-review-officer.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/workplace-drug-testing/background-check.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/workplace-drug-testing/background-check.html#comments Thu, 11 Mar 2010 13:47:05 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=1148 Read More]]>

Get the best employee you can! Employment screening can help in the selection process of a qualified employee.


Why Should You Consider Conducting Background Checks or Pre-Screening Job Applicants?

There are a number of reasons employers should consider carrying out background checks on current or prospective employees and pre-screening on job applicants. In fact, it’s been said that in today’s business climate, employers can’t afford not to conduct checks. “Negligent hiring” can expose an employer to potential liability if it’s proven that there were negative facts in an employee’s background that the employer failed to uncover – for example, hiring a person with a history of DUIs as a delivery driver.

In addition to possible litigation, there are a number of potentially costly problems that can arise when employers choose not to conduct a background check. These problems can include:

• Employee theft or fraud.
• Drug and alcohol abuse in the workplace.
• Frequent tardiness or work absences.
• On the job accidents.
• Lack of knowledge of the job for which the person was hired because of resume inaccuracies.

To avoid these costly pitfalls, employers are encouraged to screen employees and job applicants and with our new background checking service, this task has become easier and more cost-effective than ever before.


Background Checking and Pre-Employment Screening from ANY LAB TEST NOW®

ANY LAB TEST NOW® has teamed with Background Checks Systems to offer comprehensive background checking and pre-employment screening services. Employers can choose to take advantage of package pricing that combines several different types of checking, or purchase checks in an a-la-carte manner.


Click Here for FAQ Drug Testing

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/workplace-drug-testing/background-check.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/why-drug-screening.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/why-drug-screening.html#comments Wed, 10 Mar 2010 22:19:24 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=1141 Read More]]> Because America’s drug problem is much bigger than most people assume. Here are some facts:
• 60% of the world’s illegal drug market is in the U.S.A. (with 6% of the world’s population);
• Over 20 million Americans use Marijuana;
• An estimated 6 million Americans use Cocaine;
• An estimated half a million Americans use Heroin;
• An estimated 13 million Americans are alcoholics;
• Almost 1/3 of Americans between ages 20 and 40 have used an illicit drug once in the past year.
• Almost 1/2 of Americans Entering the work Force have used an illicit drug once in the past year.

And don’t forget drugs are abused by people from All walks of life. 65% of people who use drugs earn $25,000 or more annually. 76% of all illegal drug users are white; 12% are black; 8% are Hispanic. No industry, occupation or school system is immune.

Did You Know That:

• 76% of Drug Users are Employed
• 2.5 Times More Likely to be Absent for 8 or More Days
• 5x More Likely to File Workers Comp Claim
• 3.6x more likely to injure themselves or others at work
• A lawsuit due to an employee’s drug abuse problem can cost an employer his or her business
• One in twelve employees report current use of illicit drugs
• Did you know that drug users are responsible for 35% of all workplace absenteeism and 40-80% of all theft
• Substance abuse is the cause of 40% of all injuries and deaths within business across America
• Each substance abuser costs an employer an average of $11,000 each year




Drug Testing will:

• Reduce Insurance Premiums
• Reduce Employee Attrition
• Increase Worker Productivity




A Drug Free Workplace has many advantages:

• Avoid Hiring a “PROBLEM” Employee
• Reduction in Worker’s Compensation Premiums
• Containment of Health care Costs
• Reduced Absenteeism
• Reduced Theft
• Increased Morale & Productivity
• Bid on State and Federal projects which require bidders to show they are a Certified Drug Free Workplace

“Don’t Take the Risk. Protect Your Business and Test Your Employees.”

As an employer you can test your employees in different ways.

Here are some of the most common options.

Pre-employment Drug Testing

These tests are done as a condition for hiring. An applicant must pass the drug screen before they officially become an employee. Sometimes these tests are done prior to the offer. Other times they are done shortly after they begin working.

Random drug testing:

Random drug testing is the most effective format. In the USA, random drug testing is used by a growing number of corporations, drug rehab centers, prisons, the military, police and fire departments, government agencies, and more recently, schools. Currently, this method is used in 23 of the 50 United States.

The objective of a random drug test is deterrence, as the threat of detection is much higher versus other testing methods. The goal of random testing is to discourage drug use among employees, inmates, or students by not telling anyone who or when or where they are to be tested in advance.

In addition, random testing is more likely to catch cannabis users, since THC metabolites are fat soluble and have a longer duration in the body than those of many other drugs

Post-incident drug testing:

Post-incident drug testing is a less commonly administered test compared to the other two, but the financial ramifications of not testing employees after an accident (or other incident) on the job makes this test worthwhile for most businesses. The point of this test is not necessarily to cause the employee to lose his or her job, but rather to protect the company from liability in the event that the individual is under the influence at the time of the accident. DUI testing would also fall into this category.

We have different packages available for drug screening and background screening.

Set up an account and you will receive special discounts and a sticker, which states that you are certified drug free workplace by ANY LAB TEST NOW®.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/why-drug-screening.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/drug-testing/date-rape-drug-panel.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/drug-testing/date-rape-drug-panel.html#comments Mon, 08 Mar 2010 03:05:12 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=961 Read More]]>

“That Day, somebody somehow slipped a pill into my wine glass at a dinner dance, and I left about three minutes before it really hit. In my attempt to walk home, I substantially overshot my house without noticing and could barely organize my limbs to turn back around. I spent the rest of the evening vomiting and trying to keep the floor from spinning away…”

What is Date Rape?

Date rape also occurs when one person forces another person to have sex. This crime is also a felony offense. The difference between rape and date rape is that in cases of date rape, the victim agreed to spend time with the attacker. Perhaps the victim even went out with the attacker more than once. Sexual assault is any type of sexual activity that a person does not agree to. It can include touching that is not okay; putting something into the vagina; sexual intercourse; rape; and attempted rape.

What are date rape drugs?

“Date Rape” drugs are hypnotics, sedatives and other types of medications that cause a person to have lapses in memory; loss of motor control, consciousness and/or inhibitions; and slurred speech. When mixed with alcohol, the affect of these drugs intensify. These are drugs that are sometimes used to assist a sexual assault. These drugs are powerful and dangerous. They can be slipped into your drink when you are not looking. The drugs often have no color, smell, or taste, so you can’t tell if you are being drugged. The drugs can make you become weak and confused — or even pass out — so that you are unable to refuse sex or defend yourself. If you are drugged, you might not remember what happened while you were drugged.

Date rape drugs are used on both females and males.

The three most common date rape drugs are: Rohypnol, GHB, Ketamine,

Street Names for Rhypnol:
Roofies, Circles, Forget Pill, LA Rochas, Lunch Money, Mexican Valium, Mind Eraser, R-2, Rib, Roches, Roopies, Rope, Rophies, Ruffies, Trip-and-Fall, Whiteys.

Street Names for GHB:
Bedtime Scoop, Cherry Meth, Easy Lay, Energy Drink, Gamma 10, G-Juice, Gook, Goop, Great Hormones, Liquid E, Liquid Ecstasy, Liquid X, Salt Water, Soap, Somatomax.

Street Names for Ketamine:
Black Hole, Bunp, Cat Valium,Green, Jet, K-Hole, Kit Kat, Purple, Special K, Super Acid.

Rohypnol (chemical name: Flunitrezepam) is well known and is considered the date rape drug of choice for predators.

Ketamine (also known as Special K) and GBH (Gamma Hydroxybutyrate).

GBH is a derivative of a neurotransmitter that occurs in the brain but when the body produces too much of this chemical due to a metabolic disorder, developmental delays and seizures can occur. It was originally developed as a weight loss and body building drug until it was banned due to the extreme side effects and became known as a date rape drug.

Date Rape Testing Panels
It is imperative that any investigation into the suspected use of date rape drugs involve an immediate blood test, as waiting too long to test for the presence of drugs may cause false negatives, because these drugs are quickly metabolized and eliminated by the body. Trying to deduce from the symptoms whether or not date rape drugs have been used can cause false positives.
Urine test detects alleged drugs up to 5 days after the incident.
A hair test detects alleged drugs up to 90 days starting from 14th day on.

Basic Date Rape Panel Urine $239 , Hair $354

Tests for Rohypnol,GHB, Ketamine

Comprehensive Date Rape Panel, Urine $399, Hair $699

(Drug-Facilitated Sexual Assault Test Panel) tests for Rohypnol,GHB, Ketamine, Other Hypnotics, Sedatives and Over-The-Counter Medications Known to Cause a Similar Affect.

What are the test options?

• Blood (recent ingestion)
• Urine (up to 5 days after the incident)
• Hair (collected 10 – 14 days after the incident minimum)
• Suspected glass or container in which the alleged drug was placed
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/drug-testing/date-rape-drug-panel.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/chlamydia-dna-urine.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/chlamydia-dna-urine.html#comments Sun, 07 Mar 2010 11:55:09 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=810 Click Here for Chlamydia Test
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/chlamydia-dna-urine.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/hepatitis-panel.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/hepatitis-panel.html#comments Sun, 07 Mar 2010 11:32:13 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=779 Read More]]> Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver that can be contracted through unprotected sex, using contaminated needles, or other causes. There are several types of hepatitis – each caused by a different hepatitis virus.

The Hepatitis Panel from ANY LAB TEST NOW® tests for three common variations of hepatitis: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C.

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver that can be contracted through unprotected sex, using contaminated needles, or other causes. There are several types of hepatitis – each caused by a different hepatitis virus.

* Hepatitis A can be caused by consuming contaminated water or food.
* Hepatitis B can be contracted through sharing contaminated needles, having unprotected sex, or being exposed to infected blood from another person.
* Hepatitis C can be spread by blood from contaminated needles during drug use or tattooing as well as by having unprotected sex.

Test Components::



This panel tests for:

1. Hepatitis A
2. Hepatitis B
3. Hepatitis C

Why Do I Need It?:

If left untreated, hepatitis can lead to fatigue or more serious issues like liver failure. What’s most disturbing is how hepatitis can remain dormant in your body for years and cause no outward physical symptoms.

It may be impossible to detect hepatitis with just a physical examination because you may not have any noticeable symptoms. That’s why it’s important to be tested. Get a Hepatitis Panel and peace‐of‐mind today.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/hepatitis-panel.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/hepatitis-c-virus-hcv-antibody.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/hepatitis-c-virus-hcv-antibody.html#comments Sun, 07 Mar 2010 11:31:26 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=777 Read More]]> There are several types of hepatitis – each caused by a different hepatitis virus. Viral hepatitis can be contracted through unprotected sex, using contaminated needles, or other causes. The Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Test only tests for Hepatitis C (You may want to consider the Hepatitis Panel, also available).

Common Variations of Hepatitis:

* Hepatitis A can be caused by consuming contaminated water or food.
* Hepatitis B can be contracted through sharing contaminated needles, having unprotected sex, or being exposed to infected blood from another person.
* Hepatitis C can be spread by blood from contaminated needles during drug use or tattooing as well as by having unprotected sex.

Why Do I Need It?:

Hepatitis C often leads to chronic hepatitis, which can progress to cirrhosis and even liver cancer. Early detection of the virus can alert your physician to follow your liver function tests more closely to consider treatments if you have a chronic infection.


If your result is positive, you have probably been infected with Hepatitis C. You may not even have any symptoms. If your result is negative, this indicates that you have not been infected with Hepatitis C.
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/hepatitis-c-virus-hcv-antibody.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/hepatitis-b-surface-antigen.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/hepatitis-b-surface-antigen.html#comments Sun, 07 Mar 2010 11:30:21 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=776 Read More]]> There are several types of hepatitis – each caused by a different hepatitis virus. Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver that can be contracted through unprotected sex, using contaminated needles, or other causes.

You should be tested for Hepatitis B if you have symptoms of an infection or have been exposed to the Hepatitis B Virus (HBV). If you have chronic liver disease, you should also be tested. You may want to consider the Hepatitis Panel, which tests for a variety of the most common variations of hepatitis.

Common Variations of Hepatitis:

* Hepatitis A can be caused by consuming contaminated water or food.
* Hepatitis B can be contracted through sharing contaminated needles, having unprotected sex, or being exposed to infected blood from another person.
* Hepatitis C can be spread by blood from contaminated needles during drug use or tattooing as well as by having unprotected sex.

Why Do I Need It?:

If left untreated, hepatitis can lead to fatigue or more serious issues like liver failure. What’s most disturbing is how the hepatitis virus can remain dormant in your body for years and cause no outward physical symptoms. In fact, Hepatitis B can have an incubation period of 1 to 6 months after exposure, so if you test negative today, you may want to consider retesting again at a later date (depending on the date of the exposure.)


Normal Range


A negative result may indicate that you have never been exposed to Hepatitis B or you have recovered from an acute Hepatitis B infection. A positive result indicates that you have an active Hepatitis B infection.


High / Low Results Indicate:


There are no high or low results for this test. Test result will show a negative or positive
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/hepatitis-b-surface-antigen.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/hepatitis-a-antibody-total.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/hepatitis-a-antibody-total.html#comments Sun, 07 Mar 2010 11:29:21 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=774 Read More]]> There are several types of hepatitis – each caused by a different hepatitis virus.
The Hepatitis A Antibody (Total) Test will determine a prior Hepatitis A infection or an acute Hepatitis A infection.


Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver that can be contracted through unprotected sex, using contaminated needles, or other causes.


Common Variations of Hepatitis:
• Hepatitis A can be caused by consuming contaminated water or food.
• Hepatitis B can be contracted through sharing contaminated needles, having unprotected sex, or being exposed to infected blood from another person.
• Hepatitis C can be spread by blood from contaminated needles during drug use or tattooing as well as by having unprotected sex.


Why Do I Need It?:

If left untreated, hepatitis can lead to fatigue or more serious issues like liver failure. What’s most disturbing is how hepatitis can remain dormant in your body for years and cause no outward physical symptoms. It may be impossible to detect hepatitis with just a physical examination because you may not have any noticeable symptoms.


If your results show positive, this means that you have been infected with Hepatitis A. If your test is negative and you know you have been exposed to Hepatitis A, you may wish to be tested again in 6 to 9 weeks.
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/hepatitis-a-antibody-total.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/testosterone-total-free.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/testosterone-total-free.html#comments Sun, 07 Mar 2010 11:06:33 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=762 Read More]]> The Testosterone, Free (Direct), Serum with Total Test will determine the level of testosterone (free and total) in your blood.
Testosterone is a hormone (commonly produced in males, but is also in females in small amounts) that affects sexual features and development. Testosterone levels explode in men after puberty and continue to rise until 40 years old.
Overall, this test will give you a better understanding of how much testosterone is in your blood.
1. Testosterone Free
2. Testosterone Total


Why Do I Need It?:
If you’re taking steroids, a testosterone supplement, or any other anti‐aging medicine, you should consider Testosterone, Free (Direct), Serum with Total Test. These supplements promote muscle and bone growth, but too much can affect your body in other ways.


Test Details:
Normal Range:
TESTOSTERONE, FREE (MALE):

20-29 years	9.3-26.5 pg/mL
30-39 years	8.7-25.1 pg/mL
40-49 years	6.8-21.5 pg/mL
50-59 years	7.2-24.0 pg/mL/mL
>59 years	6.6-18.1 pg/mL



TESTOSTERONE, FREE (FEMALE):

Age	Male (ng/dL)	Female (ng/dL)
1-5 mo	1-177	1-10



TESTOSTERONE TOTAL:

Age	Male (ng/dL)	Female (ng/dL)
1-5 mo	1-177	1-10
6-11 mo	1-10	1-10
1-5 y	0-10	0-10
6-7 y	0-20	0-10
8-10 y	0-25	0-30
11-12 y	0-350	0-50
13-15 y	15-500	0-50
Adults	241-827	14-76



High Results Indicate:
MEN: High levels can indicate testicular tumors, adrenal tumors or anabolic steroid use.
WOMEN: High levels can indicate Polycystic Ovary Syndrome or an ovarian or adrenal gland tumor.


Low Results Indicate:
MEN: Low levels may indicate hypothalamic or pituitary disease or damage to the testes. It can also indicate testicular failure or infertility.
WOMEN: Women should have low levels.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/testosterone-total-free.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/shbg-sex-hormone-binding-globulin.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/shbg-sex-hormone-binding-globulin.html#comments Sun, 07 Mar 2010 11:04:48 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=761 Read More]]> Sex hormone binding globulin is done in conjunction with other tests to evaluate an individual’s androgen levels (male hormones).


Why do we need it?


This test is used to determine the cause of infertility, decreased sex drive, erectile dysfunction, and is used when testosterone values are inconsistent with clinical values.
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/shbg-sex-hormone-binding-globulin.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/prolactin.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/prolactin.html#comments Sun, 07 Mar 2010 11:01:41 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=760 Read More]]> Prolactin levels are used, along with other tests, to help:
• 1. Determine the cause of galactorrhea
• 2. Determine the cause of headaches and visual disturbances
• 3. Diagnose infertility and erectile dysfunction in males
• 4. Diagnose infertility in females
• 5. Diagnose prolactinomas
• 6. Evaluate anterior pituitary function (along with other hormones)
• 7. Monitor treatment of prolactinomas and detect recurrences



Why Do I Need It?:
To determine whether your prolactin levels are higher (or occasionally, lower) than normal.
When you have symptoms of elevated prolactin, such as galactorrhea and/or visual disturbances and headaches; as part of a workup for female and male infertility; for follow-up of low testosterone in men.


Other Relevant Tests:
FSH, LH, Testosterone, DHEAS, Estrogen, Progesterone


Test Details:
Normal Range:

Adult Male	2.0-18.0 ng/mL
Adult Female Non-Pregnant	3.0-30.0 ng/mL
Adult Female Pregnant	10.0-209.0 ng/mL
Adult Female Postmenopausal	2.0-20.0 ng/mL
Stages of Puberty (Tanner Stages) Female Observed	3.6-12.0 ng/mL
Stages of Puberty (Tanner Stages) Male Observed	≤10.0 ng/mL



High Results Indicate:
Elevated levels may indicate hypothalamic disease, hypothyroidism, kidney disease or pituitary tumors.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/prolactin.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/luteinizing-lh-hormone.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/luteinizing-lh-hormone.html#comments Sun, 07 Mar 2010 10:29:11 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=753 Read More]]> The Luteinizing Hormone or LH Test measures how much of the hormone is in your blood. The LH is produced by the pituitary gland in both men and women.

In females, this hormone helps regulate the menstrual cycle and egg production. It is common to see LH levels rise and fall during the monthly menstrual cycle. It is also useful in the production of estrogen and progesterone.

In males, LH is responsible for the release of testosterone (which plays a role in producing sperm).


Why Do I Need It?:
The LH Test can help men and women in a lot of ways, such as helping find the cause for the couple’s infertility or help evaluate a man’s sperm count or a woman’s egg supply. It can also give insight on puberty, menstrual cycle issues, and ovulation timing, among others.


Test Details:
Normal Range:
Men’s levels should be between 1.5- 9.3mL. For women, normal levels depend upon what stage of the menstrual cycle you are in. For example:

Follicular Phase	1.9-12.5mL
Mid-Cycle	8.7-76.3mL
Luteal Phase	0.5-16.9mL
Postmenopausal	5.0-52.3mL



High Results Indicate:
In men, high levels can indicate testicular failure, defects in testicular growth or testicular injury. In women, high levels can indicate menopause or primary ovarian failure.


Low Results Indicate:
Low levels of LH can indicate a number of disorders such as secondary ovarian failure, problems with the pituitary or hypothalamus in women.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/luteinizing-lh-hormone.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/igf-1.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/igf-1.html#comments Sun, 07 Mar 2010 10:10:18 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=749 Read More]]> IGF-1 can help diagnose the cause of growth abnormalities and to evaluate your brain’s pituitary function. It may also be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment for growth hormone deficiencies and growth hormone insensitivity.


Why Do I Need It?
If you’re taking a growth hormone, you should consider this test to ensure there isn’t too much (or too little) in your blood.

Other Relevant Tests:
Customers who purchased the IGF-1l also purchased the Comprehensive Male Panel or the Comprehensive Female Panel or the Diabetes Maintenance Panel.

Test Details:
Normal Range:
INSULIN-LIKE GROWTH FACTOR-1:

Age	Male ng/mL	Female ng/mL
16 to 24 yrs.	182 – 780	182 – 780
25 to 39 yrs.	114 – 492	114 – 492
40 to 54 yrs.	90 – 360	90 – 360
55 + yrs.	71 – 290	71 – 290
80 yrs.	1 – 71	1 – 71



High Results Indicate:
INSULIN-LIKE GROWTH FACTOR-1: Elevated levels may indicate an increase in growth hormone production or pituitary tumor.


Low Results Indicate:
INSULIN-LIKE GROWTH FACTOR-1: Low levels of IGF-1 can indicate a deficiency of growth hormone or sensitivity to growth hormone. It can also indicate a decrease in pituitary function, anorexia nervosa, chronic kidney or liver disease or high doses of estrogen

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/igf-1.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/growth-hormone-hgh.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/growth-hormone-hgh.html#comments Sun, 07 Mar 2010 09:54:36 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=738 Read More]]> Growth Hormone (GH) plays an important role in how your body uses food for energy.

Throughout the day, your GH levels fluctuate with exercise, diet, stress, and other factors.


Why Do I Need It?
If you’re taking a growth hormone supplement, you should consider this test to ensure there isn’t too much (or too little) in your blood.


Other Relevant Tests:
Customers who purchased the human Growth Hormone test also purchased the Comprehensive Male Panel or the Comprehensive Female Panel.


Test Details:
Normal Range:
HUMAN GROWTH HORMONE:

Men	less than 5 ng/mL orless than 5 µg/L
Woman	less than 10 ng/mL orless than 10 µg/L



High Results Indicate:
HUMAN GROWTH HORMONE: Elevated levels may indicate gigantism, diabetes, kidney disease or starvation.


Low Results Indicate:
HUMAN GROWTH HORMONE: Low levels can indicate dwarfism or pituitary failure.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/growth-hormone-hgh.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/fsh.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/fsh.html#comments Sun, 07 Mar 2010 09:46:07 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=734 Read More]]> The Follicular Stimulating Hormone (FSH) indicates levels that determine if you’re approaching or have gone through menopause.
FSH is often used in conjunction with other tests (LH, testosterone, estradiol, and progesterone) in the workup of infertility in both men and women. FSH levels are used to help determine the reason a man has a low sperm count. FSH levels are also useful in the investigation of menstrual irregularities and to aid in the diagnosis of pituitary disorders or diseases involving the ovaries or testes.


Why Do I Need It?:
To evaluate your pituitary function, especially as it relates to fertility issues, gonadal failure, maturation concerns, or pituitary tumors.


Other Relevant Tests:
Customers interested in FSH often also choose Total estrogens, Estradiol, LH, Testosterone, Progesterone


Test Details:
Normal Range: Male 1.6-8.0 mIU/ml

Follicular Phase	2.0-10.5 mIU/ml
Mid-cycle Peak	3.1-17.7 mIU/ml
Luteal Phase	1.5-9.1 mIU/ml
Postmenopausal	23.0-116.3 mIU/ml



High Results Indicate:
Increased levels of FSH and LH are consistent with primary ovarian failure.


Low Results Indicate:
Low levels of FSH and LH are consistent with secondary ovarian failure due to a pituitary or hypothalamic problem.
Low FSH serum levels have been associated with increased risk of ovarian cancer.



]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/fsh.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/estrogen-total.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/estrogen-total.html#comments Sun, 07 Mar 2010 09:40:28 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=732 Read More]]> The Estradiol Test measures the amount of estradiol (a form of estrogen) in your blood. This test will determine your estrogen status, evaluate your ovarian function and monitor the follicular development during ovulation. In men, this test is used to assess estrogen production levels.


Why Do I Need It?:
Are your ovaries functioning properly? Are you able to have children? Estradiol testing gives you a lot of information on your ovarian reserve (where your eggs are). Find out now at ANY LAB TEST NOW®.


Other Relevant Tests:
If you’re interested in this test, you might also want to consider the Progesterone, Follicular Stimulating Hormone (FSH), and Luteinizing Hormone (LH) tests. If you want all of these and more, you should consider the Comprehensive Female Panel.


Test Details:
Men should have Estradiol levels lower or equal to 29 mL. In women, the level is determined by where you are in your menstrual cycle. Women’s ranges are below:



Follicular Phase	39mL-375mL
Mid-cycle Peak	94mL-762mL
Luteal Phase	48mL-440mL
Postmenopausal	≤ 10mL



High Results Indicate:
Elevated levels could indicate ovarian tumors, adrenal feminizing tumors, liver disease or male gynecomastia.


Low Results Indicate:
Decreased levels could indicate ovarian failure or oral contraceptives.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/estrogen-total.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/cortisol-am-serum.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/cortisol-am-serum.html#comments Sun, 07 Mar 2010 09:27:15 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=721 Read More]]> Inadequate amounts of cortisol can cause nonspecific symptoms such as weight loss, muscle weakness, fatigue, low blood pressure, and abdominal pain. Sometimes decreased production combined with a stressor can cause an adrenal crisis that requires immediate medical attention.




Too much cortisol can cause increased blood pressure, high blood sugar, obesity, fragile skin, purple streaks on the abdomen, muscle weakness, and osteoporosis. Women may have irregular menstrual periods and increased facial hair; children may have delayed development and a short stature.



Why Do I Need It?:

To help diagnose Cushing’s syndrome (obesity, muscle wasting, and muscle weakness) or Addison’s disease (weakness, fatigue, increased pigmentation, among others).

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/cortisol-am-serum.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/diabetes-2.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/diabetes-2.html#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 15:50:30 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=664 Read More]]> Almost everyone knows someone who has diabetes. An estimated 23.6 million people in the United States — 7.8 percent of the population — have diabetes, a serious, lifelong condition. Of those, 17.9 million have been diagnosed, and about 5.7 million people have not yet been diagnosed. Each year, about 1.6 million people aged 20 or older are diagnosed with diabetes.

What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a disorder of metabolism — the way our bodies use digested food for growth and energy. Most of the food we eat is broken down into glucose, the form of sugar in the blood. Glucose is the main source of fuel for the body.

After digestion, glucose passes into the bloodstream, where it is used by cells for growth and energy. For glucose to get into cells, insulin must be present. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas, a large gland behind the stomach.

When we eat, the pancreas automatically produces the right amount of insulin to move glucose from blood into our cells. In people with diabetes, however, the pancreas either produces little or no insulin, or the cells do not respond appropriately to the insulin that is produced. Glucose builds up in the blood, overflows into the urine, and passes out of the body. Thus, the body loses its main source of fuel even though the blood contains large amounts of sugar.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/diabetes-2.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/vap-cholesterol-test-2.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/vap-cholesterol-test-2.html#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 10:23:22 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=654 Click Here for the VAP Cholesterol Test
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/vap-cholesterol-test-2.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/urinalysis.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/urinalysis.html#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 10:22:08 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=653 Read More]]> The Urinalysis can determine a number of health problems. It will see if your kidneys are functioning normally, if sugar is present in your urine, if you’re burning fat or if you have a urinary tract infection. In addition, it can locate substances that may be causing everything from metabolic problems to kidney disorders. Some doctors request a Urinalysis before surgery or during the early stages of pregnancy.


The Urinalysis tests for the following:
• 1. Leukocytes
• 2. Nitrite
• 3. Urobilinogen
• 4. Protein
• 5. pH
• 6. Blood
• 7. Specific Gravity
• 8. Ketone
• 9. Bilirubin
• 10. Glucose




Why Do I Need It?:


A Urinalysis should be considered if you’re experiencing back pain, abdominal pain, blood in the urine, painful urination or frequent urination. These symptoms can be signs of more problematic health concerns such as urinary tract infections or organ failure in people with kidney disease.




Leukocytes	Leukocytes
Nitrite	negative
Urobilinogen	less than 17 µmol/L
Protein	negative
pH	ranges from 4.6 to 8.0
Blood	4 red cells per high power field
Specific Gravity	ranges from 1.002 to 1.028
Ketone	negative
Bilirubin	negative
Glucose	negative



High Results Indicate:

LEUKOCYTES	Elevated results could indicate urinary tract infection or contamination.
NITRITE	Elevated results could indicate a urinary tract infection or bacterial infection.
UROBILINOGEN	Elevated results could indicate overworked liver, excessive red blood cell breakdown, restricted liver function, hepatic infection or liver cirrhosis.
PROTEIN	Elevated results could indicate amyloidosis, bladder tumor, congestive heart failure, diabetes, nephropathy, lupus or malignant hypertension.
pH	Elevated results could indicate kidney failure or urinary tract infection.
BLOOD	Elevated levels could indicate cystitis, glomerulonephritis, kidney trauma, kidney tumor, kidney stones or prostatitis.
SPECIFIC GRAVITY	Elevated results could indicate dehydration, excessive sweating, glucosuria, heart failure or water restriction.
KETONE	Elevated results could indicate anorexia, high protein or an acute or severe illness.
BILIRUBIN	Elevated results could indicate cirrhosis, gallstones in the biliary tract, hepatitis due to biliary obstruction or tumors of the liver or gallbladder.
GLUCOSE	Elevated results may indicate diabetes mellitus.



Low Results Indicate:

LEUKOCYTES	There are no low levels for this test.
NITRITE	There are no low levels for this test.
UROBILINOGEN	Low levels may indicate an obstruction in the bile duct.
PROTEIN	There are no low values for this test.
pH	Low levels could indicate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetic ketoacidosis or diarrhea.
BLOOD	There are no low values for this test.
SPECIFIC GRAVITY	Low levels could indicate excessive fluid intake, diabetes insipidus or renal failure.
KETONE	There are no low values for this test.
BILIRUBIN	There are no low values for this test.
GLUCOSE	There are no low values for this test.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/urinalysis.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/sedimentation-rate-westergren.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/sedimentation-rate-westergren.html#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 10:19:15 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=648 Read More]]> The Sedimentation Rate (Westergren) Test is a blood test that detects and monitors inflammation in the body. Westergren is the method that measures the speed at which red blood cells settle to the bottom of a glass tube.


Why Do I Need It?:


A Sedimentation Rate Test can confirm a doctor’s diagnosis and proper treatment can be administered and monitored.




Men under 50 years old	less than 15 mm/hr
Men over 50 years old	less than 20 mm/hr
Women under 50 years old	less than 20 mm/hr
Women over 50 years old	less than 30 mm/hr



High Results Indicate:


Elevated results can indicate anemia, kidney disease, osteomyelitis, rheumatic fever, rheumatoid arthritis, syphilis, systemic lupus, thyroid disease or other inflammatory disorders.


Low Results Indicate:


Low results can indicate congestive heart failure, hypofibrinogenemia and low plasma protein
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/sedimentation-rate-westergren.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/pt-prothrombin-time.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/pt-prothrombin-time.html#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 10:16:52 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=646 Read More]]> The PT Test or Prothrombin Time Test is a blood test that measures how long it takes for blood to clot. It is mainly a test given to detect bleeding problems, monitor people taking anticoagulant medication, or for pre‐surgical workups.

Why Do I Need It?:

If you’re heading into surgery, your doctor or plastic surgeon want to make sure your blood will clot and there aren’t any problems. It’s also needed to find a cause for abnormal bleeding/bruising, monitor how well your liver is working, and see if your blood‐thinning medicine is working.



Normal Raange



No anticoagulant medications	1.0 – 1.4
On anticoagulant medications	2.0 – 3.0




High Results Indicate:

Elevated results are usually 2.5 – 3.5 depending on your medications. Elevated levels can indicate that your blood is taking too long to clot.


Low Results Indicate:


Low levels can indicate that your blood is clotting too quickly.
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/pt-prothrombin-time.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/mononucleosis-test-qualitative.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/mononucleosis-test-qualitative.html#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 10:14:07 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=643 Read More]]> Mononucleosis is a viral infection caused by the Epstein Barr virus and is common in adolescents and young adults. Often times, there are no symptoms, but others feel tired, feverish, have a sore throat, etc.

The Mononucleosis Test (Qualitative) will detect what’s called ‘heterophil antibodies’ in your blood (related to mono). Keep in mind, if you’ve had mononucleosis in the past, you will always test positive for it.

Why Do I Need It?:

If you feel poorly and you just don’t know why, you might have mononucleosis (mono). Find out now because mono can keep you out of commission for weeks and sometimes longer.

When to Get Tested?

When a person, especially an adolescent, has symptoms of mononucleosis, including fever, sore throat, swollen glands, and fatigue

Test Details:

This test gives results as a positive or negative. A positive result indicates that you have mononucleosis or have had it in the past. A negative result indicates that you have not been infected by the mononucleosis virus
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/mononucleosis-test-qualitative.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/liver-function-panel-hepatic-function.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/liver-function-panel-hepatic-function.html#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 10:11:00 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=640 Read More]]> The Liver Function Panel (Hepatic Function) measures the blood levels of seven tests that you may want to check to see how well your liver is working. Your doctor may order it if you’re suffering from symptoms related to liver disease or if you regularly take medicine, which can affect the liver. This test is also recommended if you’ve been exposed to a Hepatitis A, B, or C virus.

Test Components:

This panel includes the following tests:

1. Total Protein
2. Albumin
3. Total Bilirubin
4. Direct Bilirubin
5. Alkaline Phosphatase
6. AST
7. ALT

Why Do I Need It?:

High or low levels in one of the seven tests in the Liver Function Panel (Hepatic Function) may indicate that liver damage or liver disease is present.

If you’re taking medicine or if you’ve been exposed to hepatitis, this test is typically recommended by your physician.


]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/liver-function-panel-hepatic-function.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/lipoprotein-particle-profile.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/lipoprotein-particle-profile.html#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 10:05:54 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=637 Read More]]> A standard cholesterol test may not be enough because it can’t detect ALL the risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease. The Lipoprotein Particle Profile™ and LPP Plus goes above and beyond the standard cholesterol tests by directly measuring (vs. calculating) lipoprotein particles – both in numbers and in density.

Test Components:

The Lipoprotein Particle Profile Plus (LPPTM) tests for:

* Lipoprotein Fractionation
* Lipoprotein Particle Numbers
* Lp(a)
* Triglycerides
* Homocysteine
* C-Reactive Protein (High Sensitivity)
* Insulin

Description:

The LPP Plus is different from the LPP in that it also tests for homocysteine, C-Reactive Protein (High Sensitivity), PLA2 (a specific marker for stroke risk) and insulin values.

A standard cholesterol test may not be enough because it can’t detect ALL the risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease.

The Lipoprotein Particle ProfileTM and LPP Plus goes above and beyond the standard cholesterol tests by directly measuring (vs. calculating) lipoprotein particles – both in numbers and in density.

Measuring the lipoprotein subgroups is the only way to evaluate new risk factors, which is crucial for an accurate assessment of your cardiovascular risk.

The test is simple and non-invasive. An ANY LAB TEST NOW® associate will gently take a small amount of blood and give you test results in a few days. It’s that simple.

Why Do I Need It?:

Did you know that approximately 50% of people suffering from heart attacks have “normal” cholesterol numbers*. (*NIH-National Heart Blood and Lung Institute.)

If you have “normal” cholesterol numbers, you may want to consider the more comprehensive Lipoprotein Particle ProfileTM or LPP Plus. This test can determine your cardiovascular risk despite those apparent “normal” levels. Knowing your lipoprotein numbers is important because cardiovascular risk increases with a higher LDL particle count.


High Results Indicate:


Research has shown that there are different sized of LDL and HDL particles and some are much more dangerous than others. Having a detailed profile gives your doctor the information needed to make more effective treatment decisions to reduce your risk for heart disease and even a heart attack.


Low Results Indicate:


Research has shown that there are different sized of LDL and HDL particles and some are much more dangerous than others. Having a detailed profile gives your doctor the information needed to make more effective treatment decisions to reduce your risk for heart disease and even a heart attack.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/lipoprotein-particle-profile.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/iron-and-total-iron-binding-capacity-tibc.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/iron-and-total-iron-binding-capacity-tibc.html#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 10:03:53 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=635 Read More]]> The Iron and Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) Test measures the amount of iron in your blood. Having too much or too little iron in your blood can cause medical problems. However, this test is mainly used to determine certain types of anemia.


Why Do I Need It?:
You may too much or too little iron in your blood.
Either way, it’s important to find out.
A TIBC not only gives an Iron level, but also shows the ability of a protein called transferrin to carry iron in the blood.

Iron	60 ‐ 170 mcg/dL
TIBC	240 ‐ 450 mcg/dL



Elevated results could indicate iron deficiency.

Low results could indicate hemochromatosis, malnutrition, inflammation, liver disease or kidney disease.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/iron-and-total-iron-binding-capacity-tibc.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/heavy-metal-panel.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/heavy-metal-panel.html#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 10:00:02 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=630 Read More]]> Heavy Metals Five (5) Panel (Arsenic, Lead, Mercury, Cadmium, Chromium).


Metals are natural elements from our Earth but are extremely toxic (even in low concentrations) and can have damaging effects on your body (especially your lungs and kidneys.) You can be exposed to certain types of metals from the air, household products, contaminated foods and drinks, and possibly at your place of employment (manufacturing facilities) or at home.
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/heavy-metal-panel.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/c-reactive-protein-cardiac-high-sensitivity.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/c-reactive-protein-cardiac-high-sensitivity.html#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 09:50:56 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=619 Read More]]> The C‐Reactive Protein (High Sensitivity, Cardiac) (CRP) is a blood test that measures the amount of protein (called C‐reactive Protein) in your blood that indicates inflammation. It’s also used to assess your risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). “High Sensitivity” means that this particular test can see if you have an increased chance of having a heart problem or heart attack.

The best way to utilize test results is to be tested two different times (typically taken two weeks apart). Your physician will take the average of the two test results to determine your risk for cardiovascular disease or the presence of inflammation.

High levels of CRP are caused by infections and many long‐term diseases. But a CRP test cannot show where the inflammation is located or what is causing it. Other tests are needed to find the cause and location of the inflammation.


Why Do I Need It?:

Inflammation can pop up in your body in a number of ways. With the C‐Reactive Protein (High Sensitivity, Cardiac) Test, you’ll know if inflammation has damaged the inner lining of your arteries, thus increasing your chances of a heart attack.


This test can also check for infection after surgery, determine any infections or diseases causing inflammation, or see how well your body is reacting to treatment.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/c-reactive-protein-cardiac-high-sensitivity.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/thyroid-panel.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/thyroid-panel.html#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 09:31:54 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=598 Click Here for All Thyroid Panels
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/thyroid-panel.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/female-health-profile-2.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/female-health-profile-2.html#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 09:17:35 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=582 Read More]]> This is a complete package for women who want to take control of their health. The 17 Tests Female Health Profile gives you a lot of information including your blood counts, kidney and liver functions, electrolytes, male hormones, thyroid, hearth, nutrition, Hepatitis status and HIV status.


This Value Panel tests for:

1. Chemistry Panel
2. Luteinizing Hormone
3. DHEA-S
4. Thyroid Stimulating Hormone, T4, T3 and Thyroxine Index
5. Cholesterol Lipids with HDL/LDL Ratio (Total Cholesterol, HDL, LDL, HDL/LDL Ratio, Triglycerides)
6. Progesterone
7. Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
8. Complete Blood Count (CBC)
9. Estradiol
10. Hepatitis A, B and C
11. HIV
12. C-Reactive Protein, High Sensitivity, Cardiac
13. Lipoprotein (a)
14. Iron and Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC)
15. Prealbumin
16. Homocysteine
17. Blood Pressure



You won’t find a better package that gives you all the information you need about your body. Save over $600 and get it all with the Female Health Profile from ANY LAB TEST NOW®.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/female-health-profile-2.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/hemoglobin-a1c.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/hemoglobin-a1c.html#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 09:04:21 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=567 Read More]]> The Hemoglobin A1c Test is a valuable measure of the overall blood glucose levels over a period of time (2‐3 months). This test can be used to help detect pre‐diabetes and diagnose diabetes. If you’re diabetic, this test can help determine if your disease is under control.


Why Do I Need It?:


Is your diabetes under control? With ANY LAB TEST NOW®, you can get this common and important test fast and without an appointment. The information from this test is vital for anyone managing their diabetes.


Test Details:
Normal Range:
Any test value less than 6.0% indicates that you are non‐diabetic.


High Results Indicate:
A high result (over 6%) could indicate diabetes mellitus, chronic hyperglycemia, the presence of hemoglobin S or the presence of hemoglobin C. Your healthcare physician must make the final diagnosis.


Low Results Indicate:
A low result (under 6%) could indicate high levels of hemoglobin F or improved the control of a diabetic condition. Your healthcare physician must make the final diagnosis.
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/hemoglobin-a1c.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/glucose-serum.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/glucose-serum.html#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 09:01:45 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=565 Read More]]> The Glucose (Serum) Test, also known as the Fasting Blood Glucose Test, is the most common test used to diagnose hyperglycemia (higher-than-normal levels of blood sugar), hypoglycemia (lower-than-normal levels of blood sugar) and diabetes. It’s commonly given by your doctor every year and during pregnancy. In addition, Diabetics self-conduct this test multiple times a day to monitor their blood glucose.

Note: Be sure to fast (not eat) for 10-12 before the test to ensure its accuracy.


Why Do I Need It?:
Are you diabetic or want to know if you’re diabetic?
This test will determine if your blood glucose level is within a healthy range. It will also screen for, diagnose, and monitor pre-diabetes, diabetes, hyper- and hypoglycemia.


Test Details:
Normal Range: Fasting ranges should be between 70 to 110 mg/dL

High Results Indicate: High result values are between 100 and 126 mg and are considered to be a risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Results higher than 126 mg can be a sign that you have diabetes and you should seek medical attention.

Low Results Indicate: Results under 70 mg/dL can indicate hypoglycemia.


What is being tested?

Glucose is a simple sugar that serves as the main source of energy for the body. The carbohydrates we eat are broken down into glucose (and a few other simple sugars), absorbed by the small intestine, and circulated throughout the body. Most of the body’s cells require glucose for energy production; brain and nervous system cells not only rely on glucose for energy, they can only function when glucose levels in the blood remain above a certain level.



The body’s use of glucose hinges on the availability of insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas. Insulin acts as a traffic director, transporting glucose into the body’s cells, directing the body to store excess energy as glycogen for short-term storage and/or as triglycerides in adipose (fat) cells. We cannot live without glucose or insulin, and they must be in balance.


Normally, blood glucose levels rise slightly after a meal, and insulin is secreted to lower them, with the amount of insulin released matched up with the size and content of the meal. If blood glucose levels drop too low, such as might occur in between meals or after a strenuous workout, glucagon (another pancreatic hormone) is secreted to tell the liver to turn some glycogen back into glucose, raising the blood glucose levels. If the glucose/insulin feedback mechanism is working properly, the amount of glucose in the blood remains fairly stable. If the balance is disrupted and glucose levels in the blood rise, then the body tries to restore the balance, both by increasing insulin production and by excreting glucose in the urine.


Severe, acute hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia can be life-threatening, causing organ failure, brain damage, coma, and, in extreme cases, death. Chronically high blood glucose levels can cause progressive damage to body organs such as the kidneys, eyes, heart and blood vessels, and nerves. Chronic hypoglycemia can lead to brain and nerve damage.


Some women may develop hyperglycemia during pregnancy, which is termed gestational diabetes. If untreated, this can cause these mothers to give birth to large babies who may have low glucose levels. Women who have had gestational diabetes may or may not go on to develop diabetes.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/glucose-serum.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/progesterone.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/progesterone.html#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 08:29:53 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=542 Read More]]> The Progesterone Test measures the amount of the hormone in your blood. Progesterone is a female hormone produced by the ovaries and it’s essential for pregnancy. It prepares the uterus for fertilization and produces breast milk. The hormone also plays a role in sexual desire.


Why Do I Need It?:
Are you worried that you can’t have children? A Progesterone test can help find the cause of infertility, monitor the success of infertility medicines, and a multitude of other information to assess the ability to have children. It can also help diagnose problems with the adrenal glands and some types of cancer.


Other Relevant Tests:
Customers who purchase the Progesterone Test also consider the Basic Check-Up or upgrade to the Comprehensive Female Panel or the Female Health Profile.


Test Details:
Normal Range:
PROGESTERONE FEMALE:

Pre-Ovulation	Less than 1 ng/mL
Mid-Cycle	5 to 20 ng/mL
Postmenopausal	Less than 1 ng/mL



PROGESTERONE MALE:Less than 1 ng/mL


High Results Indicate:
Elevated levels could indicate adrenal cancer, ovarian cancer or pregnancy.


Low Results Indicate:
Low levels could indicate amenorrhea, fetal death or toxemia of pregnancy.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/progesterone.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/estradiol.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/estradiol.html#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 08:27:44 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=540 Read More]]> The Estradiol Test measures the amount of estradiol (a female sex hormone which is basically a form of estrogen) in your blood. The test will determine your estrogen status, evaluate your ovarian function and monitor the follicular development during ovulation. In men, this test is used to assess estrogen production levels.




Why Do I Need It?:

Are your ovaries functioning properly? Are you able to have children?

The Estradiol Test gives you a lot of information on your ovarian reserve (where your eggs are).

Other Relevant Tests:

If you’re interested in this test, you might also want to consider the Progesterone, Follicular Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Estradiol, and Luteinizing Hormone (LH) tests. If you want all of these and more, you should consider the Comprehensive Female Panel.



Test Details:

Men should have Estradiol levels lower or equal to 29 mL. In women, the level is determined by where you are in your menstrual cycle. Women’s ranges are below:

Follicular Phase	70-400 pg/ml
Mid-cycle Peak	100-900 pg/ml
Luteal Phase	70-700 pg/ml
Postmenopausal	≤ 130pg/ml



High Results Indicate:

Elevated levels could indicate ovarian tumors, adrenal feminizing tumors, liver disease or male gynecomastia.



Low Results Indicate:

Decreased levels could indicate ovarian failure or oral contraceptives.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/estradiol.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/male-health-profile.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/male-health-profile.html#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 08:21:06 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=533 Read More]]> This is a complete package for men who want to take control of their health. The 15 Tests Male Health Profile gives you a lot of information including your blood counts, kidney and liver functions, electrolytes, male hormones, thyroid, heart, nutrition, hepatitis and HIV status.

This Value Panel tests for:

1. Chemistry Panel

2. Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH), T4, T3 and Thyroxine Index

3. Cholesterol Lipids with HDL/LDL Ratio (Total Cholesterol, HDL, LDL, HDL/LDL Ratio, Triglycerides)

4. Testosterone Total & Free

5. DHEA-S

6. Complete Blood Count (CBC)

7. Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA)

8. Hepatitis A, B and C

9. HIV

10. C-Reactive Protein, High Sensitivity, Cardiac

11. Lipoprotein (a)

12. Iron and Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC)

13. Prealbumin

14. Homocysteine

15. Blood Pressure

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/male-health-profile.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/rheumatoid-arthritis-ra-factor.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/rheumatoid-arthritis-ra-factor.html#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 08:16:36 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=530 Read More]]> The Rheumatoid Arthritis Factor (RA Factor) Test measures the rheumatoid factor antibody in the blood
– typically not present in a normal individual’s blood. If present, this can indicate and diagnose
rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory diseases.


In fact, a positive RA factor is also present in patients with other conditions including other connective tissue diseases, infectious diseases like hepatitis, parasites, liver disease and more.


Why Do I Need It?:


If your joints hurt from walking up stairs, opening up jars or other routine activity, you may want to take the RA Factor Test. Rheumatoid arthritis often causes problems in several joints at the same time – affecting your smaller joints like wrists and ankles first. As the disease progresses, your shoulders, elbows, knees, hips, jaw and neck can also become involved. Basically, your whole body hurts and it’s not fun.


Get screened early because rheumatoid arthritis can be curbed by medicine and other doctor‐instructed treatment.


Normal Range:


Titers	1:20 – 1:40 or less
Units	Less than 43




High Results Indicate: High levels can indicate rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, scleroderma, vasculitis, an infectious disease, endocarditis or liver disease.


Low Results Indicate: Low levels are ideal and are usually not monitored.
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/rheumatoid-arthritis-ra-factor.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/allergy-panel-fl-south-of-orlando-2.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/allergy-panel-fl-south-of-orlando-2.html#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 08:08:57 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=520 Read More]]> Childhood Allergy Panel Cinnamon, Egg white, Soybean, Wheat, Shrimp, Peanut, Milk, Walnut, Pecan nut,Cashnew Nu
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/allergy-panel-fl-south-of-orlando-2.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/allergy-panel-fl-south-of-orlando.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/allergy-panel-fl-south-of-orlando.html#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 08:07:04 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=517 ….
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/allergy-panel-fl-south-of-orlando.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/allergy-panel-seafood.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/allergy-panel-seafood.html#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 08:05:46 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=514 Read More]]> Codfish, Crab, Shrimp, Tuna, Lobster





Why Get Tested?
To screen for allergies; sometimes to monitor the effectiveness of immunotherapy (desensitization) treatment

When to Get Tested?
When you have symptoms such as hives, dermatitis, rhinitis (nasal congestion), red itchy eyes, asthma, or abdominal pain that your doctor suspects may be caused by an allergy

Sample Required?
A blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/allergy-panel-seafood.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/allergy-panel-salads.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/allergy-panel-salads.html#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 08:04:25 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=513 Tomato, Orange, Celery, Parsely, Lettuce
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/allergy-panel-salads.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/allergy-panel-vegetables.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/allergy-panel-vegetables.html#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 08:01:36 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=511 Corn, Pea, White bean, Carrot Potato
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/allergy-panel-vegetables.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/allergy-panel-cereal.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/allergy-panel-cereal.html#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 08:00:57 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=510 Rye, Barley, Rice, Buckwheat, Gluten
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/allergy-panel-cereal.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/allergy-panel-insects.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/allergy-panel-insects.html#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 08:00:26 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=509 Honey bee, White-faced hornet, Yellow jacket, Paper wasp, Yellow hornet
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/allergy-panel-insects.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/allergy-panel-animals.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/allergy-panel-animals.html#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 07:59:55 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=508 Horse dander, Cow dander, Pigeon droppings, Goose feathers, Chicken feathers
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/allergy-panel-animals.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/adult-food-allergy-profile.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/adult-food-allergy-profile.html#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 07:58:42 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=506 Read More]]> Egg white, Milk, Codfish, Wheat, Corn, Sesame Seed, Peanut, Soybean, Shrimp, Clam, Walnut, Scallop
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/adult-food-allergy-profile.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/comprehensive-combo-panel.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/comprehensive-combo-panel.html#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 07:56:05 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=502 Read More]]> 90 Foods & 45 Inhalants

Grasses, Weeds, Meats and Poultry, Diary, Grains, Fungi, Fruits, Seafood, Spices, Trees, Vegetables

Grasses: Bluegrass/June Grass, Orchard, Bermuda, Johnson Grass, Salt Grass, Redtop, Timothy, Bahia	Weeds: Ragweed, Pigweed/Careless Weed, Lamb’s Quarters, English Plantain, Marsh Elder, Dock/Sheep Sorrel, Baccharis.
Meats and Poultry: Beef, Chicken, Lamb, Pork, Turkey, Veal	Epidermal/Dust/Mites: Housedust-Mites, Cockroaches, Cat, Dog, Horse, Feathers-Mixed
Diary: Cheese Soft, Cheese Hard, Cottage Cheese, Goat Cheese, Milk Cow, Yoghurt, Casein, Whey,Cheese, Milk, Yogurt, Eggs	Grains: Barley, Bran Mix*, Hops, Oats, Rice, Rye, Soybean, Wheat, Wheat Gluten; Bran Mix*: Oat Bran, Wheat Bran
Fungi: Aspergillus, Alternaria, Helminthosporium, Cladosporium, Penicillium, Rhizopus, Smut Mix/Stemphyllium, Candia Albicons	Fruits: Apple, Banana, Berry Mix*, Citrus Mix, Coconut, Grapefruit, Grapes, Mango, Melon Mix*, Orange, Peach, Pear, Pineapple, Plum/Prune, Strawberry, Watermelon; *Berry Mix: Blackberry, Blueberry, Cranberry, Rasberry; *Melon Mix: Canteloupe, Honeydew
Seafood: Cod, Halibut, Salmon, Shrimp, Tuna; Shellfish Mix*: Clam, Crab, Lobster, Oyster, Scallop	Spices: Black Pepper, Cane Sugar, Curry, Garlic, Jalapeno/Chile Pepper, Mustard, Paprika, Poppy Seed, Rosemary, Sesame
Trees: Cottonwood/Aspen, Australian Pine/ Mulberry, Palm, Privet, Juniper/Cedar, Box Elder/Maple, Pecan/Hickory, Hackberry, Oak, Willow, Elm, Sycamore, Bayberry, Hazelnut, Melaleuca	Vegetables: Asparagus, Avocado, Bean Mix*, Broccoli, Carrots, Celery, Corn, Eggplant, Lettuce, Mushroom, Onions, Peas, Peppers, Potato, Spinach, Squash, Sweet Potato, Tomato; *Bean Mix: Green Bean, Kidney Bean, Lima Bean, Navy Bean, String Bean
Other: Aspartame, Baking Powder, Bakers Yeast, Ascorbic Acid, Carob, Carrageenan, Cocoa/Chocolate, Coffee, Egg White, Egg Yolk, Guar, MSG, Nut Mix I*, Nut Mix II*, Parabens, Peanut, Sulfites; *Nut Mix I: Almond, Cashew, Pecan, Walnut; *Nut Mix II: Hazelnut, Macadamia, Pistachio

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/comprehensive-combo-panel.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/expanded-food-panel.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/expanded-food-panel.html#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 07:54:20 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=501 Read More]]> 90 foods and additives

Meats and Poultry, Spices, Seafood, Seafood, Diary, Seafood, Grains

Meats and Poultry: Beef, Chicken, Lamb, Pork, Turkey, Veal	Epiderma/Dust/Mites: Housedust-Mites, Cockroaches, Cat, Dog, Horse, Feathers-Mixed
Grains: Barley, Bran Mix*, Hops, Oats, Rice, Rye, Soybean, Wheat, Wheat Gluten	Diary: Cheese Soft, Cheese Hard, Cottage Cheese, Goat Cheese, Milk Cow, Yogurt, Casein, Whey
Spices: Black Pepper, Cane Sugar, Curry, Garlic, Jalapeno/Chile Pepper, Mustard, Paprika, Poppy Seed, Rosemary, Sesame	Seafood: Cod, Halibut, Salmon, Shrimp, Tuna; Shellfish Mix*: Clam, Crab, Lobster, Oyster, Scallop
Fruits: Apple, Banana, Berry Mix*,Coconut, Grapefruit, Grapes, Mango, Melon Mix*, Orange, Peach, Pear, Pineapple, Plum/Prune, Strawberry, Watermelon;*Berry Mix: Blackberry, Blueberry, Cranberry, Rasberry;*Melon Mix: Canteloupe, Honeydew	Vegetables: Asparagus, Avocado, Bean Mix*, Broccoli, Carrots, Celery, Corn, Eggplant, Lettuce, Mushroom, Onions, Peas, Peppers, Potato, Spinach, Squash, Sweet Potato, Tomato; *Bean Mix: Green Bean, Kidney Bean, Lima Bean, Navy Bean, String Bean
Other: Aspartame, Baking Powder, Bakers Yeast, Ascorbic Acid, Carob, Carrageenan, Cocoa/Chocolate, Coffee, Egg White, Egg Yolk, Guar, MSG, Nut Mix I*, Nut Mix II*, Parabens, Peanut, Sulfites; *Nut Mix I: Almond, Cashew, Pecan, Walnut; *Nut Mix II: Hazelnut, Macadamia, Pistachio	Trees: Cottonwood/Aspen, Australian Pine, Mulberry, Palm Privet, Juniper/Cedar, Box Elder/Maple, Pecan/Hickory. Hackberry, Oak, Willow, Elm, Sycamore, Bayberry, Hazelnut, Melaleuca
Grasses: Bluegrass/June Grass, Orchard, Bermuda, John Grass, Salt Grass, Salt Grass, Redtop, Timothy, Bahia	Weeds: Ragweed, Pigweed/Careless Weed, Lamb’s Quarters, English Plantain, Marsh Elder, Dock/Sheep Sorrel, Baccharis
Fungi: Aspergillus, Alternaria, Helminthosporium, Cladosporium, Penicillium, Rhizopus, Smut Mix/Stemphylium, Candiada Albicans	Epiderma/Dust/Mites: Housedust-Mites, Cockroaches, Cat, Dog, Horse, Feathers-Mixed

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/expanded-food-panel.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/basic-combo-panel.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/basic-combo-panel.html#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 07:51:59 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=499 Read More]]> 45 regional inhalants and 46 foods:

Grains, Meats and Poultry, Diary, Spices, Grasses, Epidermal, Dust, Mites, Seafood, Weeds, Fungi, Trees, Vegetables, Fruits, Other

Grains: Barley, Hops, Oats, Rice, Rye, Soybean, Wheat	Meats and Poultry: Beef, Chicken, Pork, Turkey
Diary: Cheese, Milk, Yoghurt, Eggs	Spices: Black Pepper, Garlic
Grasses: Bluegrass/June Grass, Orchard, Bermuda, Johnson Grass, Salt Grass, Redtop, Timothy, Bahia	Epidermal/Dust/Mites: Housedust-Mites, Cockroaches, Cat, Dog, Horse, Feathers-Mixed
Seafood: Cod, Salmon, Shellfish Mix*, Shrimp, TunaShellfish Mix*: Clam, Crab, Lobster, Oyster, Scallop	Weeds: Ragweed, Pigweed/Careless Weed, Lamb’s Quarters, English Plantain, Marsh Elder, Dock/Sheep Sorrel, Baccharis.
Fungi: Aspergillus, Alternaria, Helminthosporium, Cladosporium, Penicillium, Rhizopus, Smut Mix/Stemphyllium, Candida Albicons	Trees: Cottonwood/Aspen, Australian Pine/ Mulberry, Palm, Privet, Juniper/Cedar, Box Elder/Maple, Pecan/Hickory, Hackberry, Oak, Willow, Elm, Sycamore, Bayberry, Hazelnut, Melaleuca
Vegetables: Avocado, Bean Mix*, Broccoli, Carrots, Celery, Corn, Lettuce, Mushroom, Peppers, Potato, Tomato, *Bean Mix: Green Bean, Kidney Bean, Lima Bean, Navy Bean, String Bean	Fruits: Apple, Banana, Citrus Mix*, Grapes, Melon Mix*, Peach, Strawberry, Watermelon, *Citrus Mix: Grapefruit, Lemon, Tangerine, Lime, Orange, *Melon Mix: Canteloupe, Honeydew
Other: Cocoa, MSG, Nut Mix*, Peanut, Yeast, *Nut Mix: Almond, Cashew, Pecan, Walnut

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/basic-combo-panel.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/psa-prostate-specific-antigen.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/psa-prostate-specific-antigen.html#comments Tue, 02 Mar 2010 16:53:11 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=496 Read More]]> The PSA Test (or Prostate Specific Antigen) is a substance a man’s prostate gland produces. This blood test will measure your PSA levels and if elevated, it may indicate prostate cancer or prostatitis (an enlarged prostate).


Why Do I Need It?:


No matter what age you are, all men need a PSA Test. Why? Because it’s important to establish a PSA “baseline,” so that you can, over time, monitor any changes in your PSA levels. A PSA is also recommended for men on testosterone therapy. Proactive blood testing like this can help you monitor your levels and possibly detect and treat disease before it’s too late.


Normal Range: Levels of 4.0 ng/mL and less are considered to be normal.


High Results Indicate: Men with results higher than 10.0 ng/mL are considered to be at a greater risk for prostate cancer. Levels between 4.0 ng/mL and 10.0 ng/mL can indicate prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia or prostatitis.


Low Results Indicate: Any result under 4.0 ng/mL is considered to be normal.
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/psa-prostate-specific-antigen.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/plac-test.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/plac-test.html#comments Tue, 02 Mar 2010 16:42:52 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=493 Read More]]> The PLAC Test for Lp-PLA2 is the only blood test cleared by the FDA to help identify the risk for stroke and heart attack. This simple, non-fasting blood test will give you and your doctor more information about your cardiovascular health, including whether or not you need more aggressive therapy.

A substantial body of evidence including over 65 papers support Lp-PLA2 as a cardiovascular risk marker that provides new information, over and above traditional risk factors.

87% of strokes are ischemic1.

68% of all heart attacks and strokes occur from clots, not from narrowing of the arteries.

The PLAC Test is a blood test that measures the level of Lp-PLA2 (Lipoprotein-associated Phospholipase A2), an enzyme associated with the inflammation of your arteries. Increased levels of Lp-PLA2 increase your risk of having a heart attack or stroke.

In most adults, cholesterol causes a fatty deposit called plaque to build up in the walls of the arteries. When arterial walls become inflamed, your body produces the enzyme Lp-PLA2. If the amount of Lp-PLA2 is high, this may indicate that the plaque is more likely to rupture through the inside lining of your artery into your bloodstream, where it may cause a clot that could result in heart attack or stroke.



Why Do I Need It?:

Stroke is the number 3 killer in the United States and cholesterol is NOT a reliable predictor for stroke. Now there is a simple blood test that can help you uncover hidden risk for both heart attack and stroke. It’s called The PLAC Test.

And did you know that 50% of cardiovascular events strike in patients with unremarkable lipid levels (or those that ‘appear normal’), highlighting the prevalence of hidden cardiovascular risk. Find out now if you have a hidden risk of rupture-prone plaque.



The PLAC Test can provide you and your doctor with information about the health of your arteries that was not available in the past.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/plac-test.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/vap-cholesterol-test.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/vap-cholesterol-test.html#comments Tue, 02 Mar 2010 16:38:08 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=489 Read More]]> Price: $79

Description:

The VAP® (Vertical Auto Profile) Test is one of the most accurate and comprehensive cholesterol tests available today. It reports 18 separate components of blood cholesterol compared to just four in a standard test.

This comprehensive cholesterol test can identify more lipid abnormalities (which is the #1 risk factor of heart disease) than the standard test and is the only cholesterol test to identify markers for Metabolic Syndrome, a precursor for diabetes.

Your risk of heart disease and diabetes can be reduced with the right preventative treatments – and the VAP Test provides a large amount of information for your doctor to give an accurate diagnosis.



Why Do I Need It?

The VAP Cholesterol Test is a test for you if you have:

• A family history of heart disease or cardiac event
• Elevated cholesterol ( Total or LDL) or Low HDL
• Elevated Triglycerides
• Diabetes or family history of diabetes
• High Blood Pressure
• Thyroid Problems
• Kidney Problems
• Obstructive Liver Disease

Or if you are taking cholesterol medication or are overweight.
The VAP cholesterol test can determine if you may have Metabolic Syndrome, a precursor for Type II Diabetes or Insulin Resistance




No Fasting is required for this VAP Cholesterol test.



Test Components:



The VAP® Cholesterol Test (Vertical Auto Profile) measures:

1. LDL (direct measured) Cholesterol	10. HDL2
2. HDL Cholesterol	11. HDL3
3. VLDL Cholesterol	12. VLDL1+2
4. Total Cholesterol	13. VLDL3
5. Non- HDL cholesterol	14 .Remnant Lipoproteins
6. Triglycerides	15. LDL Density ( Pattern )
4. Total Cholesterol	13. VLDL3
7. LDL-R	16. Apo B
8. Lp(a)	17. Apo A1
9. IDL	18. Apo B / A1 Ratio

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/vap-cholesterol-test.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/home-local-home-page-cholesterol-test.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/home-local-home-page-cholesterol-test.html#comments Tue, 02 Mar 2010 16:29:30 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=485 Read More]]> Test Components: Price: $49

This Lipids Panel includes the following tests:

• 1. Total Cholesterol
• 2. HDL
• 3. LDL
• 4. HDL/LDL Ratio
• 5. Triglycerides

Description:

The Lipids Panel can determine if you have abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels. These are important because they can also help you and your doctor determine if you’re at risk for heart disease or other coronary (heart) illnesses.

Cholesterol is fat that is produced by the liver. It can also be obtained from foods like cheeseburgers, pizza, etc. There are two kinds of cholesterol – the good and the bad.

• 1. High Density Lipoproteins (HDL) = Good cholesterol.
• 2. Low Density Lipoproteins (LDL) = Bad cholesterol.

Basically, you want a high HDL and a low LDL (see below for optimal results.)

The Lipids Panel is a great panel to establish a “baseline” (an initial reading or level of results) and continuously monitor over time (like every quarter) to ensure healthy results and take necessary action in elevated levels.


When all of these tests are evaluated together, your physician can determine if you would benefit from a cholesterol maintenance medication. If you’re already taking cholesterol medication, your doctor may require a more detailed test from ANY LAB TEST NOW® such as the Cholesterol Medication Maintenance Panel before a refill can be completed.

Why Do I Need It?:

Is your heart healthy?


Measuring your Total Cholesterol and other levels is one method to detect whether you’re at risk for heart or coronary artery diseases, among others.

Test Details:

Normal Range:

Normal ranges can depend on sex and age. Below are the ranges for a healthy adult.

Normal ranges can depend on sex and age. Below are the ranges for a healthy adult. Total Cholesterol	Desirable levels are less than 200 mg/dL Borderline normal levels are 200‐239 mg/dL
HDL Cholesterol	Desirable levels are 60 mg/dL or above
LDL Cholesterol	Optimal levels are less than 100 mg/dL Near Optimal levels are 100‐129 mg/dL Borderline normal levels are 130‐159 mg/dL
Triglycerides	Normal levels are less than 150 mg/dL Borderline normal levels are 150‐199 mg/dL

High Results Indicate:

TOTAL CHOLESTEROL: High results are values over 240 mg/dL. These results may indicate that you have a problem processing fats and could indicate that you may have a higher risk for heart disease.

HDL CHOLESTEROL: High results are values less than 40 mg/dL. This indicates that you may not have enough good cholesterol to balance out the LDL cholesterol.

LDL CHOLESTEROL: High results are values over 190 mg/dL. These results may indicate that you have a problem processing fats and could indicate that you have a higher risk for heart disease.

TRIGLYCERIDES: High results are values between 200 and 499 mg/dL. Very high risk values are over 500 mg/dL. These results may indicate that you have a problem processing fats and could indicate that you have a higher risk for heart disease.

Low Results Indicate:

Typically, there are no low results for these tests. However, some doctors treat low HDL. Ask your doctor if necessary.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/home-local-home-page-cholesterol-test.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/how-it-works.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/how-it-works.html#comments Tue, 02 Mar 2010 16:12:41 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=482 Read More]]> Now it’s easier than ever to Test for Early Pregnancy. No Doctor’s Order needed.



Visit us before 11am and get your Accurate Pregnancy Test the Same Day!




Step 1.	Choose Your Test:
	Quantitative Blood Pregnancy Test: $49
Step 2.	Visit our facility Monday through 8.00 AM – 6.00 PM and Saturday: 9.00 AM – 2.00 PM. Testing takes 5-10 minutes. Blood is drawn by one of our two experienced phlebotomists. No Doctor’s prescription is necessary! If you call we make sure that you can get tested the same Day.
Step 3.	Test results will be available same day if you visit us before 11 am
	Fast and Easy!

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/how-it-works.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/prenatal-lab-tests.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/prenatal-lab-tests.html#comments Tue, 02 Mar 2010 16:04:10 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=479 Read More]]> Every expectant mother wants a healthy baby. One way to help ensure this is through good prenatal care, including routine blood tests. Routine prenatal blood tests check the health of the mother during pregnancy, allowing for treatments that will prevent damage to her health and the health of her unborn child.

Routine Prenatal Blood Tests:
Most of the routine blood tests will be done on your first prenatal checkup. Some will be repeated during additional prenatal care appointments to ensure the pregnancy is going smoothly. Other than the slight pain, and possible bruising, due to the needle prick, all of these prenatal blood tests are safe and do not present a risk to the fetus.

ABO Blood type and Rh factor:
ABO Blood type and Rh factor – A prenatal blood test will be performed to discover the blood type of the mother and if she is Rh-positive or Rh-negative.

The Rh factor is a protein found on the covering of red blood cells of some people. 85% of people are Rh-positive, meaning they have the Rhesus (Rh) protein. The 15% who do not carry the protein in their blood are Rh-negative. Having or not having the protein does not cause a physical issue until a pregnancy is involved. The baby of an Rh-negative woman can inherit the Rh-positive trait from its father. If the blood of the mother and baby mix at some point during the pregnancy, which is common, the mother’s blood may develop antibodies to the blood of the baby. This is similar to an allergic reaction. The antibodies in the mother’s blood can cross the placenta and attack the baby’s blood. This can lead to the baby developing anemia, brain damage or even death.

A medication called immunoglobulin (Rhlg) may be given to a mother with Rh-negative blood to prevent the formation of antibodies. This is commonly done during the 28th week of pregnancy. She will most likely receive an additional treatment of Rhlg after delivery to prevent problems during future pregnancies.

Anemia (CBC):
Prenatal blood tests will be done to test your iron and hemoglobin levels. Low levels on either test can mean you either have or are at risk for anemia. Anemia during pregnancy will cause a woman to feel extremely fatigued and weak. It can also lead to a premature birth and low birth weight for the baby.

If your prenatal blood test results show anemia or a risk for anemia, your doctor may give you iron supplements or injections to bring you back into normal range.

Rubella:
A prenatal blood test will be done to test for immunity to Rubella (German measles). Becoming infected with Rubella during pregnancy can cause birth defects in unborn children. Common birth defects due to the disease include blindness, hearing impairment, heart defects, and mental retardation. It can also lead to miscarriage or stillbirth.

If the prenatal blood test shows you are not immune to Rubella, you will need to avoid exposure to the disease during your pregnancy. Rubella is rare in the United States due to childhood vaccinations, but your risk of infection increases if you are in crowds where visitors from countries who do not vaccinate for Rubella are present or if you plan to travel internationally during your pregnancy.

Sexually transmitted diseases:
Sexually transmitted diseases can be passed from mother to unborn child during pregnancy and delivery. Prenatal blood tests for HIV, Hepatitis B and Syphilis are routine.

Hepatitis B can cause extreme liver damage and death in babies. Syphilis can cause blindness, brain damage and death. HIV attacks the immune system and leads to AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome).

If you are found to have Hepatitis B, your delivered baby will be treated with hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG) and several injections of the Hepatitis B vaccine. Treatment for the mother also consists of the vaccine and HBIG, which are considered safe for use during pregnancy.

Syphilis is treated during pregnancy with a single penicillin injection when the disease has been present for less than one year, or with a longer dose of antibiotics if the infection is more severe.

Toxoplasmosis:
A prenatal blood test will be done to check for toxoplasmosis. Toxoplasmosis is a blood infection caused by a parasite transmitted by cats or through eating undercooked meat. The infection may not produce symptoms in the mother, but can cause severe complications when passed to the fetus. It can cause low birth weight, retinal abnormalities, brain calcification, mental retardation, and premature birth.

If the prenatal blood test is positive for toxoplasmosis, antibiotics will be prescribed to prevent damage to the unborn baby.

Bacteria in your urine:
Up to 10 percent of pregnant women have bacteria in their urine, which indicates a urinary tract infection. Most have no symptoms, but even a symptomless urinary tract infection may spread upwards to the kidneys, where it can pose a serious risk to mother and baby. Urinary tract infections are treated with antibiotics that are safe for mother and baby.

Sugar in your urine. This can be a sign of diabetes. Your health care provider may suggest additional tests if sugar shows up in your urine.

Protein in your urine. This can indicate a urinary tract infection or, later in pregnancy, a pregnancy-related condition that includes high blood pressure. Your health care provider may suggest additional tests if your urine has protein in it.

Sources:

• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
• American Pregnancy Association
• March of Dimes
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/prenatal-lab-tests.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/early-signs.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/early-signs.html#comments Tue, 02 Mar 2010 15:55:26 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=478 Read More]]> Pregnancy symptoms differ from woman to woman and pregnancy to pregnancy; however, one of the most significant pregnancy symptoms is a delayed or missed menstrual cycle.

Understanding the signs and symptoms of pregnancy is important because each symptom may be related to something other than pregnancy. Some women experience signs or symptoms of pregnancy within a week of conception. For other women, pregnancy symptoms may develop over a few weeks or may not be present at all.

Below is a listing of some of the most common pregnancy signs symptoms. If you have been sexually active and experiencing any of the following symptoms it is important to take a pregnancy test.

Implantation Bleeding:
Implantation bleeding can be one of the earliest pregnancy symptoms. About 6-12 days after conception, the embryo implants itself into the uterine wall. Some women will experience spotting as well as some cramping.

• Other Explanations: Actual menstruation, altered menstruation, changes in birth control pill, infection, or abrasion from intercourse.




Delay/Difference in Menstruation:
A delayed or missed menstruation is the most common pregnancy symptom leading a woman to test for pregnancy. When you become pregnant, your next period should be missed. Many women can bleed while they are pregnant, but typically the bleeding will be shorter or lighter than a normal period.

• Other Explanations: Excessive weight gain/loss, fatigue, hormonal problems, tension, stress, ceasing to take the birth control pill, or breast-feeding.

Swollen/Tender Breasts:
Swollen or tender breasts is a pregnancy symptom which may begin as early as 1-2 weeks after conception. Women may notice changes in their breasts; they may be tender to the touch, sore, or swollen.


Other Explanations: Hormonal imbalance, birth control pills, impending menstruation (PMS) can also cause your breasts to be swollen or tender.


Fatigue/Tiredness:
Feeling fatigued or more tired is a pregnancy symptom which can also start as early as the first week after conception.

• Other Explanations: Stress, exhaustion, depression, common cold or flu, or other illnesses can also leave you feeling tired or fatigued.




Nausea/Morning Sickness:

This well-known pregnancy symptom will often show up between 2-8 weeks after conception. Some women are fortunate to not deal with morning sickness at all, while others will feel nauseous throughout most of their pregnancy.

• Other Explanations: Food poisoning, stress, or other stomach disorders can also cause you to feel queasy.




Backaches:
Lower backaches may be a symptom that occurs early in pregnancy; however, it is common to experience a dull backache throughout an entire pregnancy

• Other Explanations: Impending menstruation, stress, other back problems, and physical or mental strains.

Headaches:
The sudden rise of hormones in your body can cause you to have headaches early in pregnancy.

• Other Explanations: Dehydration, caffeine withdrawal, impending menstruation, eye strain, or other ailments can be the source of frequent or chronic headaches.

Frequent Urination:
Around 6-8 weeks after conception, you may find yourself making a few extra trips to the bathroom.

• Other Explanations: Urinary tract infection, diabetes, increasing liquid intake, or taking excessive diuretics.

Darkening of Areolas:
If you are pregnant, the skin around your nipples may get darker.

• Other Explanations: Hormonal imbalance unrelated to pregnancy or may be a leftover effect from a previous pregnancy.

Food Cravings:
While you may not have a strong desire to eat pickles and ice cream, many women will feel cravings for certain foods when they are pregnant. This can last throughout your entire pregnancy.

• Other Explanations: Poor diet, lack of a certain nutrient, stress, depression, or impending menstruation.




There may be signs on the above list that make you wonder if you might be pregnant. Don’t remain in the dark. Come to ANY LAB TEST NOW® and order a blood pregnancy test. It is quick and easy. You will be in and out in 15 minutes and you will receive your results the next day.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/early-signs.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/graves-disease.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/graves-disease.html#comments Tue, 02 Mar 2010 15:17:08 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=476 Read More]]> Graves’ disease is the most common form of hyperthyroidism, occurring when your immune system mistakenly attacks your thyroid gland and causes it to overproduce the hormone thyroxine. This higher thyroxine level can greatly increase your body’s metabolic rate, which may affect you in numerous ways, from your moods to your physical appearance.

SYMPTOMS MAY INCLUDE:

• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Difficulty sleeping
• Fatigue
• A rapid or irregular heartbeat
• A fine tremor of your hands or fingers
• An increase in perspiration
• Sensitivity to heat
• Weight loss, despite normal food intake
• Brittle hair
• Enlargement of your thyroid gland (goiter)
• Change in menstrual cycles
• Frequent bowel movements

It’s also fairly common for your eyes to exhibit mild signs of a condition known as Graves’ ophthalmopathy.

Graves’ ophthalmopathy may cause these mild signs and symptoms:

• Excess tearing and sensation of grit or sand in either or both eyes
• Reddened or inflamed eyes
• Widening of the space between your eyelids
• Swelling of the lids and tissues around the eyes
• Light sensitivity




There’s no way to stop your immune system from attacking your thyroid gland, but treatments for Graves’ disease can ease symptoms and decrease the production of thyroxine.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/graves-disease.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/hashimotos-disease.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/hashimotos-disease.html#comments Tue, 02 Mar 2010 14:53:01 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=473 Read More]]> In Hashimoto’s disease, also known as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, your immune system attacks your thyroid gland. The resulting inflammation often leads to an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism). Hashimoto’s disease is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in the United States.

Hashimoto’s disease does not have unique signs and symptoms. The disease typically progresses slowly over a number of years and causes chronic thyroid damage, leading to a drop in thyroid hormone levels in your blood. The signs and symptoms are mainly those of an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism).

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/hashimotos-disease.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/hyperthyroidism.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/hyperthyroidism.html#comments Tue, 02 Mar 2010 14:48:34 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=468 Read More]]> Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) is a condition in which your thyroid gland produces too much of the hormone thyroxine. Hyperthyroidism can significantly accelerate your body’s metabolism, causing sudden weight loss, a rapid or irregular heartbeat, sweating, and nervousness or irritability.



SYMPTOMS MAY INCLUDE:

• Fatigue
• Feel nervous, moody, weak, or tired.
• Have hand tremors, or have a fast or irregular heartbeat, or have trouble breathing even when you are resting.
• Sweat a lot, and have warm, red skin that may be itchy.
• Have frequent and sometimes loose bowel movements.
• Have fine, soft hair that is falling out.
• Lose weight even though you are eating normally or more than usual.




In addition, some women have irregular menstrual cycles or stop having periods altogether, and some men may develop enlarged breasts.

The symptoms of hyperthyroidism are not the same for everyone. Your symptoms will depend on how much hormone your thyroid gland is making, how long you have had the condition, and your age. If you are older, it’s easy to mistakenly dismiss your symptoms as normal signs of aging.

If you do not treat your hyperthyroidism, you may:

• Lose weight because your body’s metabolism is faster.
• Lose weight because your body’s metabolism is faster.
• Have heart problems such as rapid heart rate, atrial fibrillation, and heart failure.




In rare cases, hyperthyroidism can cause a life-threatening condition called thyroid storm, which develops when the thyroid gland releases large amounts of thyroid hormones in a short period of time. Thyroid storm usually happens after you have had a serious infection or you have had a lot of stress in your life.

Treatment:
The good news is that accurate thyroid function tests are available to diagnose hyperthyroidism and several treatment options are available if you have hyperthyroidism. Doctors use anti-thyroid medications and radioactive iodine to slow the production of thyroid hormones. Sometimes, treatment of hyperthyroidism involves surgery to remove part of your thyroid gland. Although hyperthyroidism can be serious if you ignore it, most people respond well once hyperthyroidism is diagnosed and treated.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/hyperthyroidism.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/hypothyroidism.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/hypothyroidism.html#comments Tue, 02 Mar 2010 14:36:58 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=464 Read More]]> Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) is a condition in which your thyroid gland does not produce enough of certain important hormones.

Symptom may include:

• Fatigue
• Sluggishness
• Increased sensitivity to cold
• Constipation
• Pale, dry skin
• A puffy face
• Hoarse voice
• An elevated blood cholesterol level
• Unexplained weight gain
• Muscle aches, tenderness and stiffness
• Pain, stiffness or swelling in your joints
• Muscle weakness
• Heavier than normal menstrual periods
• Brittle fingernails and hair
• Depression




When hypothyroidism isn’t treated, signs and symptoms can gradually become more severe. Constant stimulation of your thyroid to release more hormones may lead to an enlarged thyroid (goiter). In addition, you may become more forgetful, your thought processes may slow or you may feel depressed.

Treatment:
The good news is that accurate thyroid function tests are available to diagnose hypothyroidism, and treatment of hypothyroidism with synthetic thyroid hormone is usually simple, safe and effective once the proper dosage is established.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/hypothyroidism.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/thyroid-tests.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/thyroid-tests.html#comments Tue, 02 Mar 2010 14:16:52 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=461 Read More]]> Thyroid function tests are a series of measurements of different aspects of thyroid hormone presence in the blood stream.

TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone)
Because of the normal feed-back loop, TSH rises whenever the thyroid gland fails to produce sufficient thyroid hormone. For the same reason, whenever there is too much thyroid hormone present in the serum, the brain responds by lowering the TSH. It is elevated in hypothyroidism and depressed in hyperthyroidism.

T4 (Thyroxine)
This is a measure of all of the active form of thyroid hormone in the blood. 95% of the total is bound to plasma proteins, particularly thyroid binding globulin (TBG).

It is elevated in hyperthyroidism and depressed in hypothyroidism. It is usually slightly elevated during pregnancy because of increased levels of TBG.

T3 (Triiodothyronine, T3-RIA) by radioimmunoassay
T3 (Triiodothyronine, T3-RIA) by radioimmunoassay T3 is metabolically a more active form of thyroid hormone than T4, but its’ effects are of shorter duration. It is elevated in hyperthyroidism and depressed in hypothyroidism.

T3 Uptake
This is a measure of the unbound throxine binding globulins in the blood (unsaturated with thyroid hormone). The less thyroid hormone that is present, the more unsaturated TBG is present. This is an indirect measure of thyroid hormone levels. It has nothing to do with T3, despite the name.

Free T3 (FT3, Free Triiodothyronine T3)
Free T3 is one of the determinations used to measure thyroid function. T3 is mostly bound to plasma proteins, and the remainder (FT3) is unbound. It is elevated in hyperthyroidism and depressed in hypothyroidism.

Free T4 (FT4, Free Thyroxin)
Most thyroid hormone is bound to plasma proteins. Some (about 5%) is not bound (“free”) and available to serve a metabolic role. Free T4 is the most accurate assessment of thyroid hormone levels, because it avoids changes in plasma protein binding capabilities. It is elevated in hyperthyroidism and depressed in hypothyroidism.

FTI (Free Thyroxine Index, FTI, T7)
The FTI is obtained by multiplying the (Total T4) times (T3 Uptake) to obtain an index. The FTI is considered a more reliable indicator of thyroid status in the presence of abnormalities in plasma protein binding. It is elevated in hyperthyroidism and depressed in hypothyroidism.

Thyroid Antibodies.
Thyroid Antibodies are tested for evidence of autoimmune thyroid diseases, such as Hashimoto’s or Graves’ disease. Thyroid antibodies may remain positive for years, and do not provide an indication of whether the person has normal or abnormal thyroid function. Furthermore, some patients with Hashimoto’s disease may have negative levels of circulating antibodies, and conversely, patients with positive levels of thyroid antibodies may never develop thyroid disease during their lifetime

Normal Values	Men	Women	Pregnancy	Panel
TSH	0.5-6 mIU/L	4-5 mIU/L		1, 2, 3
Total T4	5-12.5 µg/dl	5-12 µg/dl	10-17 µg/dl	1
T3 Uptake	25-35%	25-35%	15-25%	1
Free Thyroxine Index	1.3-4.2	1.75-4.95		1
Free T3	230-660 pg/dl			2, 3
Free T4	0.8-2.4 ng/dl	1-2 ng/dl		2, 3
Thyroperoxidase Antibodies	< 60 U/mL	< 60 U/mL	< 60 U/mL	3
Thyroglobulin Antibodies	< 20 IU/mL	< 20 IU/mL		3




]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/thyroid-tests.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/how-does-it-work.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/how-does-it-work.html#comments Tue, 02 Mar 2010 14:12:38 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=460 Read More]]> Now it’s easier than ever to check your Thyroid health.

Our comprehensive thyroid tests are considered to be the gold standard in thyroid function tests as recognized by leading medical societies including the American Thyroid Association, American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, Endocrine Society, and the Academy of Clinical Thyroidologists.

A full panel of thyroid tests is critical in the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid conditions such as Hypothyroidism, Hyperthyroidism, Hashimoto’s, and Graves’ disease.

Step 1.	Choose from one of the 3 following tests:
	Basic Thyroid Panel 1: $79 TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Total T4 (Thyroxine) T3 Uptake (Triiodithyronine) Thyroxine Index Standard Thyroid Panel 2: $99 TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Free T3 (Triiodothyronine) Free T4 (Thyroxine) Complete Thyroid Function Panel 3: $189 TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Free T3 (Triiodothyronine) Free T4 (Thyroxine) Thyroperoxidase Antibodies Thyroglobulin Antibodies
Step 2.	Visit our office Monday through Friday 8 am to 6 pm and Saturdays: 9 am to 2 pm.. No fasting required. Testing takes 5-10 minutes. Blood is drawn by one of our two experienced phlebotomists.
Step 3.	Test results will be available within 24 – 48 hours.
	It’s That Easy!

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/how-does-it-work.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/diabetes-maintenence-panel.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/diabetes-maintenence-panel.html#comments Mon, 01 Mar 2010 01:13:55 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=446 Read More]]> Nearly 6 million people don’t realize that diabetes is attacking their bodies.

The Diabetes Maintenance Panel is an effective panel for both diabetics and for those who want to see if they have diabetes.

Test Components:
The Diabetes Maintenance Panel includes the following tests:

1. Complete Blood Count (CBC)
2. Glucose, Serum (Fasting)
3. Hemoglobin A1c
4. Diabetic Urinalysis


The four tests in this panel will give you and your doctor a lot of knowledge. The Complete Blood Count (CBC) tests for blood disorders such as infection or anemia; the Fasting Glucose is used to detect both hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia, to help diagnose diabetes, and to monitor glucose levels in persons with diabetes; the Hemoglobin A1c can detect pre-diabetes, diagnose it, or see if diabetes is under control; and finally, the Diabetic Urinalysis will determine if albumin (protein) is found in your urine (if so, it’s possible your kidneys aren’t working properly).

The knowledge gained from the four tests in this panel will give you and your physician the necessary information to help monitor and/or adjust your diabetic medications.


Why Do I Need It?:
Diabetes can be a silent killer if left undetected and is the leading cause of blindness and kidney failure. It can also increase your chances of having a heart attack, stroke or infection.

Monitoring your diabetes may give you an opportunity to prevent the onset of these side effects or keep your diabetes from advancing. Knowledge is power.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/diabetes-maintenence-panel.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/dhea-s-dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/dhea-s-dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate.html#comments Mon, 01 Mar 2010 01:07:16 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=444 Read More]]> The DHEA-S Test helps in evaluating your adrenal gland function.
Your adrenal glands are two small pieces of tissue that sit atop each kidney. They produce and release certain regulatory hormones and chemical messengers, one of which is Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate or DHEA‐S for short. It’s a natural steroid hormone produced from cholesterol and it purpose is to serve as a precursor to male and female sex hormones. This hormone is also associated with immune and stress response..
Results will depend on sex, age, and other disorders that you may already have.


Why Do I Need It?:
Some research indicates that DHEA-S may cause higher than normal levels of androgens and estrogens (sex hormones) in the body, and may increase your risk of prostate, breast, ovarian, and other hormone-sensitive cancers.


Other Relevant Tests:
Customers interested in DHEA-S often choose to upgrade to one of the following value panels, which include the DHEA-S: Growth Hormone Panel, Comprehensive Male Panel, Comprehensive Female Panel, Male Health Profile or Female Health Profile.


Test Details:
Normal Range:

Age Range	Men	Women
18-29	110-510	45-320
30-39	110-370	40-325
40-49	45-345	25-220
50-59	25-240	15-170
60-69	25-95	≤ 185
	≥ 75	≤ 90


High Results Indicate:

Elevated results could indicate congenital adrenal hyperplasia, adrenal cancer, or Cushing’s disease. Elevated levels of DHEA-S are not used to diagnose a specific condition; it usually indicates that further testing is needed to find the cause of the hormone imbalance.



Low Results Indicate:
Low levels of DHEA-S could indicate Addison’s disease or adrenal hypoplasia.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/dhea-s-dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/c-reactive-protein-quantitative-2.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/c-reactive-protein-quantitative-2.html#comments Mon, 01 Mar 2010 01:05:18 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=442 Read More]]> The C-Reactive Protein Test is used to assess the risk of cardiovascular disease, inflammatory bowel disease, some forms of arthritis, Pelvic Inflammatory disease and other inflammation.
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/c-reactive-protein-quantitative-2.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/resources/r-group.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/resources/r-group.html#comments Sat, 27 Feb 2010 14:24:14 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=380 Read More]]> In solution it is the nature of the amino acid R-groups that dictate structure-function relationships of peptides and proteins. The hydrophobic amino acids will generally be encountered in the interior of proteins shielded from direct contact with water. Conversely, the hydrophilic amino acids are generally found on the exterior of proteins as well as in the active centers of enzymatically active proteins. Indeed, it is the very nature of certain amino acid R-groups that allow enzyme reactions to occur.
The imidazole ring of histidine allows it to act as either a proton donor or acceptor at physiological pH. Hence, it is frequently found in the reactive center of enzymes. Equally important is the ability of histidines in hemoglobin to buffer the H+ ions from carbonic acid ionization in red blood cells. It is this property of hemoglobin that allows it to exchange O2 and CO2 at the tissues or lungs, respectively.

The primary alcohol of serine and threonine as well as the thiol (-SH) of cysteine allow these amino acids to act as nucleophiles during enzymatic catalysis. Additionally, the thiol of cysteine is able to form a disulfide bond with other cysteines: Cysteine-SH + HS-Cysteine <——–> Cysteine-S-S-Cysteine This simple disulfide is identified as cystine. The formation of disulfide bonds between cysteines present within proteins is important to the formation of active structural domains in a large number of proteins. Disulfide bonding between cysteines in different polypeptide chains of oligomeric proteins plays a crucial role in ordering the structure of complex proteins, e.g. the insulin receptor.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/resources/r-group.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/resources/homocysteine.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/resources/homocysteine.html#comments Sat, 27 Feb 2010 14:22:30 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=378 Read More]]> Heard of Homocysteine?

If not, you will soon, health experts say. New research is finding Homocysteine (ho-mo-SIS-teen), an amino acid, may play a role in the onset of dementia. The good news is that vitamins B6, B12 and folic acid may reduce the levels of Homocysteine in the blood, says Dr. James Toole, a professor of neurology and public health science at Wake Forest University School of Medicine.

He believes people will soon have their Homocysteine levels checked as routinely as cholesterol. “Researchers have found high Homocysteine levels are associated with Alzheimer’s disease and brain atrophy,” Toole says. “This is big time news.”

The latest research appears in the May 29 issue of the journal Neurology. Two studies show that people with elevated levels of Homocysteine are more likely to have brain atrophy and vascular disease, which are related to the development of dementia. Alzheimer’s disease is one form of dementia. In one of the studies, researchers tested the blood Homocysteine levels of 36 healthy, elderly people, and then used brain scans to measure the amount of brain atrophy, or loss of brain cells and volume. The study found those who had the highest levels of brain atrophy were twice as likely to have high Homocysteine levels as those with less atrophy. Previous research has shown mild elevations of Homocysteine in about 5 percent to 7 percent of the population, says Toole, who wrote an editorial in the journal on the research.

In the second study, researchers did similar tests on 43 people with Alzheimer’s and 37 healthy people. They found people with high Homocysteine levels were 10 times more likely to have vascular disease. The study also found Alzheimer’s patients were 12 times more likely to have low levels of vitamin B6 than the healthy people. “The finding will need to be confirmed by other studies, but it is interesting,” says Joshua W. Miller, author of the second study and an assistant professor of medical pathology at University of California, Davis Medical Center. “Vitamin B6 has been shown to play a role in brain function and memory, so it’s possible that taking B6 supplements could help Alzheimer’s patients.”

Earlier studies have linked Alzheimer’s and elevated Homocysteine, Miller says. His research didn’t find that same correlation, but in studies that did find a link, the dementia attributed to Alzheimer’s could be made worse by vascular disease. Homocysteine is an amino acid that’s formed when the body breaks down methionine, which is found in protein-rich foods, Miller says. Previous research has found folic acid counteracts the Homocysteine by converting it into a non-toxic form. However, in people who don’t have enough folic acid, the level of Homocysteine rises and becomes toxic.

Homocysteine is suspected of irritating the lining of blood vessels, accelerating atherosclerosis and contributing to blockages, Toole says. If folic acid – also known as folate – keeps Homocysteine down, shouldn’t everyone take a supplement? Not exactly, Toole says. Folic acid deficiencies have been linked to certain birth defects. In 1998, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration mandated that grain producers fortify their product with folic acid. That means that bread, cereals and pastas – anything made with grain – contain added folic acid, Toole says. So, it’s very possible you get plenty of folic acid by eating a balanced diet.

Also, no one has established the optimum level of folic acid people need. So theoretically, you could take too much, Toole says. Vitamins B12 and B6 may also lower Homocysteine levels, Miller says. In addition to grains, citrus fruits, tomatoes and vegetables are good sources of folic acid. You can get vitamin B6 from meat, poultry, fish, fruits, vegetables and grain products. Major sources of B12 include meat, poultry, fish and milk, Toole says. Toole does recommend that everyone over age 60, or people at high risk of heart and vascular disease, ask to have their Homocysteine levels checked by their doctor. This can be done with a simple blood test.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/resources/homocysteine.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/resources/amino-acids.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/resources/amino-acids.html#comments Sat, 27 Feb 2010 14:19:06 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=374 Read More]]> Referred to as the ‘building blocks of life’, amino acids make up proteins in every tissue of the body, and play a major role in nearly every chemical process that affects physical and mental function. Amino acid deficiencies may manifest as fatigue, allergic sensitivity, arthritis, digestive disorder, cognitive function, weakened cardiovascular health, decreased athletic performance and neurologic imbalance. DirectLabs offers a range of tests to help you determine your specific amino acid levels.
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/resources/amino-acids.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/resources/food-allergy-testing.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/resources/food-allergy-testing.html#comments Sat, 27 Feb 2010 14:09:17 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=371 Read More]]> Food sensitivity or intolerance is a contentious topic for healthcare professionals and patients alike. It is regularly the subject of intense media speculation and scrutiny. This scrutiny may be due in part to the clouded definition and misinformation of what actually constitutes a food sensitivity or intolerance. The typical immediate allergy response to shrimp or peanuts, for instance, is a well characterized phenomenon; classified as a Type I allergy. In certain individuals Type I allergies can be potentially fatal. For the purpose of this article, we will classify adverse reactions to food according the following definitions.

1. Food allergy: A response mediated by food-triggered basophil or mast cell histamine release. This reaction can be caused by either IgG or IgE food-specific antibodies. These reactions are immediate in nature and can be severe. This response is the Type I allergic reaction. Laboratory testing can help in the detection of food allergies or sensitivities.

2. Food sensitivity: A purely immune system-mediated response involving various classes of food-specific immunoglobulin molecules that can form food immune complexes. These complexes can stimulate the complement cascade and localized inflammation. These reactions tend to be delayed – from a few hours up to 7 days after food consumption – in some cases. This response is a Type III allergic reaction.

3. Food intolerance: A non-immunological mechanism of adverse food response. Examples would include lactose intolerance and MSG sensitivity.

Which IgG Test – 1, 4 or All?

The misinformation and lack of mechanistic explanations about IgG-mediated food sensitivity is reflected in the number of different IgG tests available to healthcare practitioners. Tests measuring total IgG subclasses (i.e.,1 through 4), IgG1, IgG4 or both IgG1&4 are available.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/resources/food-allergy-testing.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/resources/allergies.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/resources/allergies.html#comments Sat, 27 Feb 2010 13:46:41 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=368 Read More]]> What are they?

Allergies are hypersensitivities, overreactions of the immune system to substances that do not cause reactions in most people. Hypersensitivities are grouped into four types, I through IV. These classifications are based, to some extent, on what parts of the immune system are activated and how long it takes for a reaction to occur.

The two types of hypersensitivities commonly associated with the term “allergies” are type I immediate hypersensitivities, in which antigens (allergens, foreign substances) combine with specific IgE (immunoglobulin E) antibodies to cause local and sometimes systemic reactions – usually within minutes; and type IV delayed hypersensitivities, reactions caused by the interactions of antigens with specific sensitized T lymphocytes instead of antibodies.

Type I hypersensitivities affect mainly the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems and the skin. They occur most frequently in those with a predisposition to allergies (those whose parents have allergies are more likely to have them themselves, although not necessarily to the same substances). The first time a predisposed person is exposed to a potential allergen, they will not have a major reaction; instead, they will create a specific IgE antibody and become “sensitized.”
The IgE antibody produced then attaches itself to mast cells, specialized cells in the tissues, and basophils (a type of white blood cell) in the blood stream. This action primes the immune system. During subsequent exposures to the allergen, that specific bound IgE identifies the intruder, attaches to it, and triggers the release of chemicals, including histamine, causing allergic symptoms that start in the mouth, nose, or on the skin, wherever the allergen was introduced.

What is not an allergy?

There are other reactions that can cause allergy-like symptoms but are not caused by an activation of the immune system. They range from toxic reactions that affect anyone who has sufficient exposure, such as food poisoning caused by bacterial toxins, to genetic conditions, such as intolerances caused by the lack of an enzyme (for example, the inability to digest milk sugar, resulting in lactose intolerance) and sensitivities to things like gluten (in celiac disease). Symptoms can also be caused by medications such as aspirin and ampicillin, food dyes, MSG (monosodium glutamate – a food flavor additive), and by some psychological triggers. While these diseases and conditions may need to be investigated by your physician, they are not allergies and will not be identified during allergy testing.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/resources/allergies.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/dna-testing/dna-family-testing.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/dna-testing/dna-family-testing.html#comments Thu, 25 Feb 2010 13:25:44 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=341 Read More]]>

If you would like to find out if you are the biological grandparents of a child the grandparentage DNA test is the right choice for you. This way you can indirectly test if you are the grandparents when an alleged father is not available to do a paternity test.

You can use the results for your own information or as proof in more legal matters.

Grandparentage DNA Test

In Grandparentage DNA test the DNA profile of the alleged father’s biological parents will be compared to that of the child. The DNA part she inherited from her father should match the DNA that has been passed down from the alleged grandparents.

Mother’s participation is encouraged, since she contributed one-half of her DNA to the child. If the biological mother does not participate, a lower probability of relationship should be expected.

Procedure:

Our professional medical assistant will rub a swab on the inside of both cheeks of the grandparents and the child. The child and the grandparents can swab at different occasions if that is more convenient. This is a painless and non-invasive procedure. It will take no more than 10 minutes.

Our DNA test providers are accredited by leading institutions. Call us if you want to see a certificate.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/dna-testing/dna-family-testing.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/micronutrient-test.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/micronutrient-test.html#comments Wed, 24 Feb 2010 16:35:38 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=326 Read More]]> The MicroNutrient Test from ANY LAB TEST NOW® tests for 32 vitamins and minerals:

VITAMINS	Vitamin A, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, Vitamin B3, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Biotin, Folate, Pantothenate
MINERALS	Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc, Copper AMINO ACIDS Asparagine, Glutamine, Serine.
ANTIOXIDANTS	Alpha Lipoic Acid, Coenzyme Q10, Cysteine, Glutathione, Selenium, Vitamin E, SPECTOX™ for total antioxidant function.
CARBOHYDRATE METABOLISM	Chromium, Fructose Sensitivity, Glucose-Insulin, Metabolism.
FATTY ACIDS	Oleic Acid
METABOLITES	Choline, Inositol, Carnitine.

The MicroNutrient Test measures your body’s ability to absorb 32 vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and other essential nutrients within your white blood cells. This non-fasting blood test tells you if you have a vitamin deficiency and gives you a plan for how to correct it.


More importantly, the results information can help you reduce the risk of illness and disease related to such deficiencies.




Did you know that about 50% of people taking multivitamins are STILL deficient?


The MicroNutrient Test can tell you which supplement to focus on – thereby eliminating your deficiency and any unnecessary spending on costly supplements.


You also need it because scientific evidence confirms that vitamin deficiencies are associated with disease processes and the overall conditions of your health. The MicroNutrient Test is the only test that takes a nutritional assessment and creates a plan to correct any deficiency negatively influencing customer’s health. Vitamin, mineral and antioxidant deficiencies have been shown to suppress immune function and contribute to chronic degenerative processes such as arthritis, cancer, Alzheimer’s, cardiovascular disease and diabetes.




Micronutrient Test is More Advanced Than other Laboratory Tests

Before the introduction of the Micronutrient Test, many diagnosis and risk assessments were based on clinical observation and measurements of static levels of certain nutrients in serum. Static serum levels are not always representative indicators for assessing cell metabolism and utilization.




MicroNutrient Test offers a unique means to scientifically assess the intracellular requirements of micronutrients that play an important role in overall health and wellness. Micronutrient test measure the biochemical function of vitamins, minerals, amino acids and antioxidants, providing a powerful clinical assessment tool. Our panels are designed to provide you with the most comprehensive nutritional analysis available.




What if I am deficient?

Any Lab Test Now offers a truly functional intracellular test (Micronutrient Test), we also provide you with targeted nutrient repletion recommendations for those vitamins and minerals found to be deficient.




Why Nutritional Testing is Important?

• 1. Nutrient deficiencies are common, in fact 90% of people are deficient and 50% of those are already taking supplements.
• 2. Vitamin deficiencies contribute to common degenerative disease like heart disease, stroke, cancer and Alzheimer’s.
• 3. Many prescription medications can cause nutrient depletions. (Ask us to provide you with a chart)
• 4. Having a strong antioxidant defense system protects you against heart disease, cancer and other chronic conditions.
• 5. There can be too much of a “good thing” — too many antioxidants can be harmful. The only way to know what you need is to be tested.
• 6. Simply taking a multivitamin may not be enough to meet your nutritional needs.
• 7. You might be over supplementing with unnecessary vitamins, minerals or antioxidants. Too much can be harmful.
• 8. Aging can be caused by a lack of nutrients.
• 9. Heaving healthy cells promotes strong immune function and optimal health for a lifetime.
• 10. Your doctor thinks it is medically necessary for a comprehensive health care program.
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/micronutrient-test.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/comprehensive-male-panel.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/comprehensive-male-panel.html#comments Wed, 24 Feb 2010 16:03:48 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=323 Read More]]> The Comprehensive Male Panel gives you everything that’s in the Basic Check-Up panel, plus a lot more including the PSA, Testosterone, and DHEA-S tests. These tests help you assess your general adrenal and testicular contributions to testosterone (vital for fertility, libido, and increased muscle mass). On Sale: $229


The Comprehensive Male Panel includes the following tests:


1. CBC (Complete Blood Count) – tests for blood disorders that include signs of leukemia, anemia, blood clotting as well as your ability to fight infections.


2.Chemistry Panel – evaluates blood sugar levels, liver and kidney function, renal function and electrolyte levels.


3. Lipid Panel – Cholesterol Test – Analyzes your cholesterol: total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL and HDL levels. Results can be used to determine your risk for coronary artery disease or stroke.


4. Urinalysis – tests your urine for substances that can indicate metabolic problems or kidney disorders.


5. Blood Pressure – Checks your levels.


6. PSA Test – determines the levels of Prostate Specific Antigen (protein produced by the prostate cells). Elevated levels of PSA can be an indication of an enlarged prostate or prostate cancer.


7. Testosterone (Free & Total) – The Testosterone Test will determine the level of testosterone (free and total) in your blood.
Testosterone is a hormone that affects sexual features and development.


8. DHEA-S – DHEA is a steroid hormone synthesized from cholesterol and secreted by the adrenal glands.
The adrenal glands affect kidney function. DHEA is a very powerful precursor to all of your major sex hormones: estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone.


9. Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) – Analyzes thyroid function and signs of hyper- and hypothyroidism.
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/comprehensive-male-panel.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/cholesterol-lipids-with-ldlhdl-ratio.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/cholesterol-lipids-with-ldlhdl-ratio.html#comments Wed, 24 Feb 2010 15:59:41 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=320 Read More]]> The Lipids Panel can determine if you have abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels. These are important because they can also help you and your doctor determine if you’re at risk for heart disease or other coronary (heart) illnesses.

Cholesterol is fat that is produced by the liver. It can also be obtained from foods like cheeseburgers, pizza, etc. There are two kinds of cholesterol – the good and the bad.
Click here for all Cholesterol Tests
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/cholesterol-lipids-with-ldlhdl-ratio.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/comprehensive-female-panel.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/comprehensive-female-panel.html#comments Wed, 24 Feb 2010 15:58:39 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=318 Read More]]> The female body is highly complex with numerous hormones that perform vital functions including regulating the menstrual cycle, protecting the heart and bones, and helping a placenta develop in the womb.


The 11 Tests Comprehensive Female Panel will find out if your hormones are functioning properly. It gives you everything that’s in the Basic Check-Up panel, plus a lot more including the Estradiol, LH, Progesterone, FSH, and DHEA-S tests. On Sale: $249


The Comprehensive Female Panel includes the following tests:


1. Complete Blood Count (CBC) – Tests for blood disorders such as leukemia, anemia, and blood clotting.


2. Chemistry Panel – Includes 16 essential tests which give information about glucose levels, electrolytes, and kidney and liver functions.


3. Lipid Panel / Cholesterol Test – Analyzes your cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL and HDL levels. Results can be used to determine your risk for coronary artery disease or stroke.


4. Urinalysis – Tests your urine for substances that can indicate metabolic problems or kidney disorders.


5. Thyroid Stimulating Hormone – Analyzes thyroid function and signs of hyper- and hypothyroidism.


6. Blood Pressure – Checks your levels.


7. Progesterone – The Progesterone Test measures the amount of the hormone in your blood. Progesterone is a female hormone produced by the ovaries and it’s essential for pregnancy.


8. Estradiol Test – checks levels of this primary estrogen that is essential for reproduction.


9. FSH Follicle Stimulating Hormone – Checks levels of follicle stimulating hormone that stimulate ovarian follicles and ovulation.


10. LH Luteinizing Hormone – Checks levels of Luteinizing Hormone that stimulate ovarian follicles and ovulation.


11. DHEA-S – is a steroid hormone synthesized from cholesterol and secreted by the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands affect kidney function. DHEA is a very powerful precursor to all of your major sex hormones: estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone.
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/comprehensive-female-panel.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/chlamydia-gonorrhea-by-nucleic-acid-amp.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/chlamydia-gonorrhea-by-nucleic-acid-amp.html#comments Wed, 24 Feb 2010 15:56:36 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=315 Read More]]> Chlamydia and Gonorrhea are both sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) that are caused by a bacterium and have similar symptoms such as discharge and painful urination. Because of the similarity, ANY LAB TEST NOW offers a Value Panel that test for both Chlamydia and Gonorrhea for one low price.


Why Do I Need It?:
There are several reasons besides the similarities between Chlamydia and Gonorrhea why you might need this Value Panel or the Comprehensive STD Panel. One, sometimes STD’s don’t have any symptoms. And two, people with STDs are more likely to become infected with other STDs including HIV. Read More/a>.
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/chlamydia-gonorrhea-by-nucleic-acid-amp.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/childhood-food-allergy-panel.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/childhood-food-allergy-panel.html#comments Wed, 24 Feb 2010 15:54:42 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=311 Read More]]> Ninety percent of all food allergies are caused by six types of food: milk, eggs, wheat, soy, peanuts and tree nuts. The Childhood Food Allergy Test can determine if your child is allergic to ten of the most common food allergies.
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/childhood-food-allergy-panel.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/chemistry-panel-16-essential-tests.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/chemistry-panel-16-essential-tests.html#comments Wed, 24 Feb 2010 15:53:52 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=309 Read More]]> The Comprehensive Metabolic Panel includes 16 essential tests that are typically requested by your doctor as part of a routine check-up or annual physical. This panel gives you or your doctor a clearer picture of your overall health.


Note: This panel requires fasting. Do not eat for 10-12 hours before taking the panel to ensure its accuracy.

Sodium (Na) Potassium (K), Chloride (C) and Carbon Dioxide (CO2) – When tested, irregular values in these “electrolytes” can indicate trouble with your body’s salt/water or acid/base balance. Dehydration, vomiting, medications and kidney problems can cause these health issues.


Albumin (Alb), Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP), Bilirubin (Bil)-Direct and Total, Aspartate Transaminase (AST); and Alanine Transaminase (ALT) – These are proteins and enzymes found in the blood. Abnormal levels of any of these tests can indicate liver damage or liver disease.


Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN), Calcium (Ca), Creatinine (Cr), Phosporus and Glucose Testing – These tests check for a range of problems that affect the kidneys, including kidney disease. These also measure the waste in the blood that may affect kidney filtration.


Why Do I Need It?:

This is one of the most common blood tests available and it gives you a tremendous amount of information about your health. And of course, it’s at a great value! Note: This panel requires fasting. Do not eat for 10-12 hours before taking the panel to ensure its accuracy.


Normal ranges: can depend on your gender and age. Below are the normal ranges for a healthy adult.


Albumin	3.5 – 5.0 gm/dL
Alkaline Phosphatase	50 – 160 units/L
ABilirubin Direct	up to 0.4 mg/dL
Bilirubin Total	p to 1.0 mg/dL
BUN	– 18 mg/dL
Calcium	8.5 – 10.5 mg/dL
Carbon Dioxide	20-29 mEq/L
Chloride	98 – 106 mEq/L
Creatinine	0.6 – 1.2 mg/dL
Glucose	70-110 mg/dL
Potassium	3.5 – 5.0 mEq/L
Total Protein	6.0 – 8.4 gm/dL
ALT	1 – 21 units/L
AST	– 27 units/L
Sodium	135 – 145 mEq/L
Phosphorus	3.0 – 4.5 mg/dL






High Results Indicate::
ALBUMIN: Elevated levels of albumin could indicate dehydration.

ALKALINE PHOSPHATASE: Elevated levels could indicate bone growth or disease, liver disease, leukemia or malignancies in the bone or liver.

BILIRUBIN DIRECT: Elevated levels could indicate hepatitis, cirrhosis, neoplasm or biliary disease.

BILIRUBIN TOTAL: Elevated levels could indicate hepatitis, cirrhosis, neoplasm, alcoholism, hemolytic disease, biliary obstruction or anorexia.

BUN: Elevated levels can indicate impaired kidney function.

CALCIUM: Elevated levels can indicate dehydration, hyperparathyroidism, kidney disease, bone cancer or high Vitamin D, Vitamin A or Calcium intake.

CARBON DIOXIDE: Elevated levels can indicate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphysema, or pneumonia.

CHLORIDE: Elevated levels of chloride can indicate dehydration, high sodium or kidney disease.

CREATININE: Elevated levels can indicate kidney damage or infection, prostate disease or urinary tract obstruction.

GLUCOSE: Elevated levels could indicate hyperglycemia or diabetes.

POTASSIUM: Elevated levels could indicate excessive potassium intake, hyperkalemia or kidney failure or damage.

TOTAL PROTEIN: Elevated levels could indicate dehydration or high levels of albumin and/or globulin.

ALT: Elevated levels could indicate liver disease, hepatocyte injury, hepatitis, drug therapy or biliary disease.

AST: Elevated levels could indicate alcoholism, cirrhosis, hepatitis, drug therapy or biliary disease.

SODIUM: Elevated levels of sodium could indicate hypernatremia or dehydration.

PHOSPHORUS: Elevated levels could indicate hypoparathyroidism or diabetic ketoacidosis.



Low Results Indicate::
ALBUMIN: Low levels of albumin could indicate liver disease, nephrotic syndrome, heart failure or low intake or absorption of protein.

ALKALINE PHOSPHATASE: Low levels could indicate a zinc deficiency, hypothyroidism, Vitamin C or B6 deficiency, excessive Vitamin D intake or malnutrition.

BILIRUBIN DIRECT: Low levels are generally not a concern and are not monitored.

BILIRUBIN TOTAL: Low levels are generally not a concern and are not monitored.

BUN: Low levels are generally not a concern and are not monitored.

CALCIUM: Low levels can indicate parathyroid gland problems and intestinal absorption problems.

CARBON DIOXIDE: Low levels can indicate cirrhosis or liver failure.

CHLORIDE: Low levels of chloride can indicate low sodium, emphysema or chronic lung disease.

CREATININE: Low levels are usually not a concern, but may be caused by decreased muscle mass or pregnancy.

GLUCOSE: Low levels could indicate hypoglycemia.

POTASSIUM: Low levels of potassium could indicate hypokalemia, dehydration or acetaminophen overdose.

TOTAL PROTEIN: Low total protein levels can indicate a liver or kidney disorder.

ALT: Low levels are generally not a concern and are not monitored.

AST: Low levels could indicate uremia, Vitamin B6 deficiency or drug therapy.

SODIUM: Low levels could indicate hyponatremia, fluid retention or too much water intake.

PHOSPHORUS: Low levels of phosphorus could indicate hypercalcemia, overuse of diuretics, hypothyroidism or chronic antacid use.

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel


Total Protein is a measure of available building blocks for many compounds in the body. Protein are used to form enzymes, hormones, antibodies and many structural components like muscle tissue. The main proteins in the blood are albumin and globulin. Increases are seen in liver disorders, alcoholism, and chronic infections and inflammation. Decreases are noted in malabsorption, colitis, and poor nutrition.


Albumin is a primary protein in the blood and is made from amino acids in the liver and is also available from the diet, especially from eggs. It helps with the immune system, maintains proper fluid balance in the tissues and plays a role in nutrient transport and waste removal. Increases are seen in kidney disorders and dehydration. Decreases are noted in decreased immune function and edema.


Globulin is the other primary protein and has important functions in immune response. Among its other jobs are carrying hormones and lipids. Compounds known as imunoglobulins, like IgA, IgG and IgE are highly important for various immune issues like allergies and infections in the mucus linings of the body. Increases are seen in chronic infection and during recovery from acute infections, as well as in Rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and in some cases when stomach acids are deficient. Decreases are primarily found in patients with compromised immunity and in cases of poor nutrition or malabsorption.


BUN - Blood Urea Nitrogen is an end product of protein breakdown. It’s produced mainly in the liver and is eliminated by the kidneys. Increases can be caused by excessive protein consumption, inadequate water consumption and kidney disorders. Decreases are related to poor diet, liver problems, excessive water consumption and malabsorption.


Uric Acid is an end product of a protein digestion, mainly a type of protein called purine. Some foods that are high in purine are organ meats, spinach, mushrooms, yeast and asparagus. It also comes from the breakdown of purine proteins in the nucleus of cells. Increases occur when the kidneys can’t eliminate properly or with gouty arthritis, alcoholism and high protein diets. Decreases are primarily associated with low protein diet or malabsorption.


Glucose is sugar that is used by the cells to provide energy. It is the only type of fuel that can be used by the brain and nervous system, whereas other tissues can also burn fats for energy. Glucose comes from the digestion of carbohydrates and may also be stored as glycogen for later use. It is primarily kept in balance by 2 hormones made in the pancreas – insulin and glucagon, although the liver, adrenal and thyroid glands are also involved. Increased values are related to diabetes, stress, Syndrome X and diet. Decreased values can reflect hypoglycemia and result from overproduction of insulin, alcoholism and liver disorders.


SGOT (also called AST) is an enzyme found mainly in the liver, heart, muscle and gonads. It functions in conversion of cholesterol to hormones and in the synthesis of several acids formed from the breakdown of proteins and fats. Increases are seen in congestive heart disease, heart attack, liver disease and alcoholism. Decreases are seen in gonadal dysfunction and vitamin B-6 deficiency.


SGPT (also called ALT) is an enzyme found primarily in the liver where it is produced when fatty membranes release stored food substances. It is released when cells die and is used to measure liver damage and other cellular damage. Increases are seen in liver disorders, alcoholism, vitamin A deficiency and heart attack. Decreases are seen in congested liver with poor release of stored nutrients.


GGT is another enzyme found primarily in the liver that is responsible for transporting amino acids and proteins into cells. Increases are seen in obstruction of the bile duct, liver damage and alcohol use, especially chronic. Decreases are seen when the liver is congested and in hypothyroid conditions.


Calcium is a principle component of the bones and teeth with 99% of the body’s calcium found in these structures. The other 1% is very important to processes like blood clotting, nerve and muscle function, and various enzyme activities. Increases are seen in disorders involving the parathyroid and thyroid glands, excess intake of vitamin D, and in conditions related to much acid in the body. Decreases are seen in parathyroid dysfunction, vitamin D deficiency, magnesium deficiency and numerous other conditions.


Iron is an important part of hemoglobin the red blood cells, carrying oxygen to all cells of the body. It also provides information on how the liver and spleen are functioning. Increases are indicative of some types of anemia where adequate co-factors are deficient leaving unbound iron that can cause free radicals. Decreases are seen in iron deficiency anemia, fatigue and bleeding in the G.I. tract.


Potassium is an electrolyte related to fluid balance and is used mainly inside the body’s cells. It is necessary for proper function of the heart and muscles. Increases are seen with excessive destruction of cells, underactive adrenal glands and kidney disease. Decreases are mainly seen in diarrhea, diuretic use, nutritional deficiency and overactive adrenal glands.


Sodium is also an electrolyte. A low level of blood sodium means you have hyponatremia, which is usually due to too much sodium loss, too much water intake or retention, or to fluid accumulation in the body (edema). Low sodium may be due to dehydration or a disease process.


Bilirubin (Total Bilirubin) comes from the normal breakdown of red blood cells. This breakdown is done by the spleen, which produces indirect bilirubin, and the liver, which produces direct bilirubin. The combination of these two forms is called total bilirubin. Increases are seen in liver and spleen dysfunction. Decreases are found in iron deficiency anemia and also a type of spleen dysfunction.


Carbon Dioxide (CO2) is actually the total of bicarbonate and carbon dioxide. These two substances are in a dynamic equilibrium and help maintain the balance of acid and base in the body. The test also reflects the ability of the lungs to exchange oxygen for the carbon dioxide gas. Increases indicate more alkaline blood condition and in the extreme, metabolic alkalosis. Decreases show more acidity in the blood and in the extreme metabolic acidosis. Chloride is another electrolyte involved in maintaining proper fluid balance and pH balance. It is also part of the stomach’s hydrochloric acid that digests protein and levels are also influenced by kidney function. Increases are seen when too much acid is in the system, in dehydration, and with swelling caused by too much fluid inside the cells. Decreases are seen in excessive sweating, stomach acid deficiency and edema.


Creatinine is a waste product of muscle activity and levels are related to a person’s muscle mass and how much exercise and strenuous activity they perform. Increases can also be related to inadequate kidney function. Deceases may be due to lack of muscle mass or degeneration

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/chemistry-panel-16-essential-tests.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/cbc-complete-blood-count.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/cbc-complete-blood-count.html#comments Wed, 24 Feb 2010 15:53:16 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=308 Read More]]> A Complete Blood Count or CBC is a great test to take to give you a “snapshot” of your health. This test gives important information about the kind and the number of cells in your blood. Physicians use this information to evaluate symptoms, help diagnose conditions and treat certain illnesses (like infections).


The Complete Blood Count (CBC) measures:

1. White blood cell count.
2. White blood cell differential.
3. Red blood cell count.
4. Red blood cell density.
5. Hemoglobin levels.
6. Blood platelet count.



Why Do I Need It?:
The CBC is perfect if you…

* Feel fatigued.
* Think you have an infection.
* Experience difficulty recovering from infection or injury.
* Experience excessive bleeding or blood clot formation.


Having a CBC is also a good idea if you have a personal or family history of inflammation, bruising, blood disorders or leukemia.


Test Details::
Normal ranges can depend on sex and age. Below are the ranges for a healthy adult.



Red Blood Cells	4.2-6.9 million cells
White Blood Cells	4,300-10,800 cells
Platelet Count	150,000‐350,000 platelets
Hematocrit	Male: 45‐62% / Female: 37‐48%
Hemoglobin	Male: 13‐18 gm/dL / Female: 12‐16 gm/dL




High Results Indicate:



RED BLOOD CELLS: The clinical term for high red blood cells is polycythemia. When the red blood cell count is elevated, the blood’s thickness is increased. This causes reduced blood flow and in some cases blood clots.


WHITE BLOOD CELLS: The clinical term for high white blood cells is leukocytosis. When the white blood cell count is elevated, it is an indication of infection. White blood cells, called leukocytes, fight diseases and infections in the body.


PLATELETS: The clinical term for high platelet counts is thrombocytosis. Having an elevated level of platelets does not always indicate a medical problem. Platelets can be elevated due to a secondary disease or disorder such as an inflammatory disease. Low may indicate possible bleeding


HEMATOCRIT: Elevated hematocrit levels are seen in people living in high altitudes, chronic smokers, and in cases of dehydration.


HEMOGLOBIN: Elevated hemoglobin levels are seen with several conditions, the most common being dehydration.



Low Results Indicate:



RED BLOOD CELLS: Low red blood cell counts are caused by blood loss, either chronic or acute. Acute blood loss is usually from an injury, trauma or surgery. Chronic blood loss is most commonly from small amounts of blood lost over a period of time.


RED BLOOD CELLS: Low red blood cell counts are caused by blood loss, either chronic or acute. Acute blood loss is usually from an injury, trauma or surgery. Chronic blood loss is most commonly from small amounts of blood lost over a period of time.


WHITE BLOOD CELLS: The clinical term for a low white blood cell count is leucopenia. This can result from chemotherapy, radiation or immune system diseases.


PLATELETS: Low platelet counts can cause abnormal and excessive bleeding


HEMATOCRIT: Low hematocrit levels can indicate anemia. Anemia can be caused by blood loss or a secondary disease or disorder.


HEMOGLOBIN: Low hemoglobin levels can indicate anemia as well as other conditions such as excessive bleeding, cancers affecting the bone marrow and kidney disease.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/cbc-complete-blood-count.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/blood-typing-and-rh-factor.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/blood-typing-and-rh-factor.html#comments Wed, 24 Feb 2010 15:49:37 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=299 Read More]]> The Blood Typing and RH Factor Test determines your blood type [either A, B, AB, and O] and Rh factor [negative or positive]. Did you know there are several benefits in knowing both? Blood type is determined by the types of antigens (or markers) on your blood cells. Antigens are proteins on the surface of your blood cells that can cause a response from the immune system – which is good in fighting disease.
The Rh factor is a type of protein on the surface of red blood cells. Red blood cells that contain protein are called Rh-positive and the red blood cells that don’t are Rh-negative.


Why Do I Need It?:
Do you know your blood type or Rh factor?
The benefits of knowing your blood type range from identification (blood is a powerful genetic fingerprint!) to nutrition (according to some studies, certain blood types break down foods better than others, allowing customers to better manage their health).
Knowing your Rh factor is just as important, especially for pregnant woman. The majority of people have a positive (+) Rh factor. If a woman has a negative Rh factor and her partner has a positive Rh factor, she is considered to be at risk because her baby will be Rh positive. During pregnancy, the blood supplies of the fetus and the mother are separate, but there are instances it can be passed through to the child. When mom is Rh negative and baby is Rh positive, there is a possibility her body will treat the baby as a foreign substance and start attacking the baby’s blood.
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/blood-typing-and-rh-factor.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/basic-check-up.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/basic-check-up.html#comments Wed, 24 Feb 2010 14:53:02 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=298 Read More]]> The 6 Tests Health Check Up panel is the perfect panel to see how your overall health is doing. The panel consists of 6 tests that are typically ordered by a physician during annual physical examination.


Most important, this is a good panel to establish your “baseline.” Your baseline consists of all the numeric test results (levels) including your blood counts, kidney function, liver function, electrolytes, total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, LDL, and thyroid function values. By knowing these levels, you can begin to manage your own health to see if they fluctuate over time.


With the Basic Check-Up, you’ll get a good look at your overall health through a variety of tests including:


1. Complete Blood Count (CBC) – Tests for blood disorders such as leukemia, anemia, and blood clotting.


2. Chemistry Pane (CMP) – Includes 16 essential tests which give information about glucose levels, electrolytes, and kidney and liver functions.


3. Lipid Panel – Analyzes your cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL and HDL levels. Results can be used to determine your risk for coronary artery disease or stroke.


4. Urinalysis (UA) – Tests your urine for substances that can indicate metabolic problems or kidney disorders.


5. Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) – Analyzes thyroid function and signs of hyper- and hypothyroidism.


6. Blood Pressure – Checks your levels.


]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/blood-test/basic-check-up.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/dna-testing/infidelity-testing.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/dna-testing/infidelity-testing.html#comments Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:43:50 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=261 Read More]]>

Don’t you want to know if your spouse or significant other is cheating on you? Put your suspicions to rest, today.

Find out now with the Infidelity DNA Test from ANY LAB TEST NOW®.

Infidelity DNA Test

Is your spouse cheating on you? Did you find a suspicious article of clothing such as a stained undergarment or other object?

The Infidelity DNA Test answers any questions or concerns you may have about a possible cheating spouse or significant other.

How does it work?

ANY LAB TEST NOW® can provide you conclusive answers through DNA Infidelity Testing. DNA testing typically provides conclusive results that confirm or deny the presence of male and/or female DNA on suspicious items.

Once conclusive results are obtained, we can also run powerful DNA comparative analyses to identify the DNA source.

DNA testing is the most accurate and conclusive method of verifying biological relationships and ANY LAB TEST NOW® offers a conclusive and affordable option.

Ask the medical assistant what can and can’t be used as sample for the DNA Test.

The DNA testing we offer is accurate, reliable, and strictly confidential. Get the peace of mind you need to take the next step in your life.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/dna-testing/infidelity-testing.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/dna-testing/ancestry-testing.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/dna-testing/ancestry-testing.html#comments Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:42:08 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=259 Read More]]>

While it can’t provide you with your entire family tree or tell you who your ancestors are, DNA testing can:

• Determine if two people are related
• Determine if two people descend from the same ancestor
• Find out if you are related to others with the same surname
• Prove or disprove your family tree research
• Provide clues about your ethnic origin



There are 3 different test options:


Ancestry DNA Testing

(1) YSTR Male Lineage Testing

The Y-STR male lineage test is used to determine whether two or more males are related through their paternal lineage. The Y chromosome is passed from father to son and has a relatively infrequent mutation rate, thus it remains the same through many generations.

(2) X-SV Maternal Lineage Testing

The X-SV maternal lineage test is used to determine whether two or more people are related through their maternal lineage, or if male and/or female children have the same biological mother. The Mitochondrial DNA sequence variation is passed from females to their children and has a relatively infrequent mutation rate, thus it remains the same through many generations. (Males do not pass the X-SV they inherited from their mother to their children).

(3) DNA Ancestry Testing

With our DNA Ancestry test, your DNA profile is going to be compared against hundreds of populations and fourteen anthropological regions whose collective genetic information is known and scientifically validated.

Population Matches: Your DNA is compared against every population in our database. We measure the likelihood that your genetic information is linked with each of those populations and regions, and plot the results on a very high resolution map.

Native Region Matches: Not using any of our “dispersed population” regions, we determine which anthropological native regions you have the strongest links with. While the population match map holds data concerning recent migrations to North America, the Native Region map does not, and can be regarded as a more of a “Deep Roots” match.

Green is the best match, yellow is a good match, and red indicates that no match or a weak match was made. In this set of calculations, we also specify five specific anthropological regions, which are in fact groups of dispersed populations. A dispersed population is one that has migrated from a native land to somewhere in the world.

At this time we have dispersed population data for African-Americans, European-Americans, Hispanic-Americans, Asian-Americans and European-Australians.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/dna-testing/ancestry-testing.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/dna-testing/prenatal-testing.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/dna-testing/prenatal-testing.html#comments Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:39:54 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=256 Read More]]>

If you would like to determine paternity during pregnancy you can do that so by taking a prenatal paternity test. During conception the DNA profile of the baby is already established.

A very exciting test for individuals wishing to discover paternity results before the birth of a child. Using complex bioinformatics algorithms we isolate free floating fetal DNA from the mother’s blood.




Noninvasive Prenatal DNA Testing

• Determine paternity through a noninvasive procedure
• Eliminates risk to the fetus
• Can be performed as early as 9 weeks into the pregnancy
• Receive results in as little as 5 days
• 99.9% success rate with sufficient fetal DNA



It’s as easy as…

• 1. Blood is drawn from the mother and alleged father
• 2. Fetal DNA signals are isolated from DNA found in the mother’s blood
• 3. Fetal DNA is compared to the alleged father’s DNA




FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. What is the success rate of this test?
99.9% as long as there is sufficient fetal DNA in the mother’s blood. Where insufficient fetal DNA is present, we recommend waiting 2–4 weeks and recollecting the mother’s sample as the amount of fetal DNA in maternal blood typically rises with gestational age. You will not need to recollect the alleged father’s sample.

2. Is it more accurate than an Amniocentesis DNA test?
Different amniocentesis based paternity tests quote accuracies being between 99 and 100%. With accuracies typically at 99.9%, our test is comparable though the two tests have not been directly evaluated head-to-head.

3. What is the difference between this test and an amniocentesis test?
The most important difference is that this test can determine the paternity of your child from a noninvasive blood draw with zero risk to the fetus, whereas amniocentesis uses an invasive procedure that may increase the risk of miscarriage.

4. What is the difference between this and a “regular” paternity test?
The main advantage of this test is that it can be done before the birth of the child, and does not involve an invasive procedure.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/dna-testing/prenatal-testing.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/dna-testing/twins-dna.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/dna-testing/twins-dna.html#comments Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:36:36 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=253 Read More]]>

A Twin Zygosity DNA Test is a DNA test that definitively shows whether siblings are fraternal or identical twins or siblings.

The difference between identical twins and fraternal twins is that identical twins come from the same fertilized egg. After the egg is fertilized with the sperm cell the egg splits and forms to embryos which will develop into two identical twins. Since identical twins share the same egg cell and sperm cell their DNA is identical.

Twin Zygosity DNA Test

Fraternal twins develop from two different egg cells and two different sperm cells. They are like normal brother and sisters only they are in the womb of the mother at the same time. The DNA of fraternal twins is not identical although they share some DNA because they are family related.

If there is doubt if twins are identical or not only a DNA test will give the answer. This test will compare the DNA profiles of the twins and will determine if they are an exact match or not. In case of an exact match the twins are identical.

Procedure:

Our professional medical assistant will rub a swab on the inside of both cheeks of the participating alleged twins. The participants can be swabbed at different occasions if that is more convenient. This is a painless and non-invasive procedure. It will take no more than 15 minutes.

Our DNA test providers are accredited by leading institutions. Call us if you want to see a certificate.

• American Association of Blood Banks (AABB)
• ASCLD/LAB-International
• College of American Pathologists (CAP)
• New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH)
• Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA)
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/dna-testing/twins-dna.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/dna-testing/siblingship-dna-testing.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/dna-testing/siblingship-dna-testing.html#comments Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:33:35 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=251 Read More]]>

Siblingship DNA Testing determines the statistical likelihood as to whether siblings share biological relationships with both parents, one parent or if there is no biological relationship. Participation by at least one parent or other known siblings improves the statistical analysis, though all potential parents are encouraged to participate in the testing.

In situations where the alleged parents are unavailable for testing, a DNA siblingship test can be performed to analyze the relationship of biological siblings. Including one common parent greatly increases the accuracy of this type of analysis and is recommended if at all possible.


Siblingship DNA Test

Unlike a paternity test which will always provide a conclusive result, siblingship tests are different. This test will give you a siblingship DNA index. When the index is below 1.00, this indicates that the siblings are not related. If the siblingship DNA index is greater than 1.00, this indicates that the two tested individuals are more likely to be true biological siblings. The higher the value of the siblingship DNA index, the greater the likelihood that the two individuals are true biological siblings.

To analyze the possibility that the siblings share only one common parent versus two common parents (mother and father), a half siblingship DNA index is obtained. The ratio of the half siblingship DNA index versus the full siblingship DNA index would provide you with an idea of whether the two individuals are more likely to share only one common parent (e.g. mother only) or two common parents (mother and alleged father).

Procedure:

Our professional medical assistant will rub a swab on the inside of both cheeks of the alleged siblings. The alleged siblings can swabbed at different occasions if that is more convenient. This is a painless and non-invasive procedure. It will take no more than 10 minutes.


Our DNA test providers are accredited by leading institutions. Call us if you want to see a certificate.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/dna-testing/siblingship-dna-testing.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/dna-testing/maternity-testing.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/dna-testing/maternity-testing.html#comments Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:32:34 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=249 Read More]]>

A maternity DNA test is similar to a paternity test but instead of determining the probability that a certain man is the biological father it determines whether a woman could be the biological mother of a child.

Maternity DNA Test

The DNA profile of the child is compared with the DNA profile of the alleged mother and the results will tell how likely it is that the woman is the biological mother.



Maternity test results may be used in the following circumstances:

• To confirm that an adoptee has been reunited with his/her birth mother
• To prove biological relationships in an immigration case
• To confirm that an embryo conceived through in vitro fertilization was implanted into the correct mother
• To resolve situations in which mothers or hospital staff suspect that a baby mix-up has occurred in the nursery

In a maternity test the alleged mother and child need to be tested. It is helpful if the father is also available, because the DNA part of the father can be excluded and no additional analysis is necessary.

Procedure:

Our professional medical assistant will rub a swab on the inside of both cheeks of the child and possible mother to collect the sample for determining the maternity of a single child. If more than one child is being tested or if there is more than one alleged mother, additional fees will be incurred. If you have a specimen with DNA on it, please ask the sales associate if we are able to do the test on your specimen and for additional pricing.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/dna-testing/maternity-testing.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/std-testing/am-i-at-risk.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/std-testing/am-i-at-risk.html#comments Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:29:43 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=245 Read More]]> Ask yourself these questions. If the answer is “yes”, get tested. Why worry?

Have you had sex with more than one person in the last year without a condom?

If you had sex with someone who has an STD, even if it was just once, for just one minute — even if it wasn’t that great — there is a chance you could have been infected with an STD. And it’s hard to tell if someone has an STD because most of the time, they don’t even know it. You’d be surprised. You absolutely cannot tell who has an STD and who doesn’t have one by the way they look. Outside of a 100% monogamous relationship with someone who is STD-free, using a condom every time you have sexual contact is the best way (other than not having any sex at all) to prevent getting an STD.

Did you have sexual contact and you’re just not sure how safe it was?

These are the kinds of questions that keep us up at night. Maybe you’re worried your partner has been sleeping with someone else. Maybe you’re thinking about something that happened in the heat of the moment and it wasn’t 100% safe. We’ve all been there. Think to yourself… was there a condom on every single time? Is it possible that I was a little tired/out of it/half asleep and can’t remember everything that went on? What about when body parts touched that weren’t well protected? If there’s a shadow of doubt about your sexual activity, then getting tested is the best way to get some peace of mind

Have you had oral sex without a condom or dental dam?

Yes, people who want to remain safe wear condoms and dental dams while giving or receiving oral sex. You may not like it, but there it is. If you had a cut or a sore inside your mouth and there was “fluid exchanged”, you could be either giving or getting an infection, depending on where you are in this arrangement. Again, getting tested for STDs is the only way to know so you can get on with your life.

Have you noticed something on your body that doesn’t look or feel right?

If you notice something on your body like a rash, bump, spot, sore, or you have unusual looking discharge, you may have an STD. Maybe. If so, go see your doctor and get an exam. What you are seeing may be an indication of something other than an STD. The thing is — you don’t need to have any signs at all to have an infection. STD symptoms are often “silent.” They don’t show up in a rash or bump or anything obvious. The only way to know if you have an STD is to get tested.

If you used a condom, are you sure it didn’t break or slip off at any point during contact?

Condoms can break. Things happen – even when the condom remains intact. Again, if you aren’t sure, get yourself checked out and get tested. Knowing is always better.

Are you 100% sure your partner or anyone you’ve been with does not have an STD?

This is the tricky one. The truth is, you just can’t tell if someone has an STD by the way they talk, dress or how clean or classy or innocent they are. None of those things matter. STDs are everywhere. STDs are incredibly common and most of us don’t even know we’re infected. The only way to know is to get tested.

Have you ever had an STD in the past?

If you’ve had an STD before, you can get re-infected with the same STD or you could contract another one. Also, having some STDs may increase your risk for becoming infected with another one. For example, doctors believe that people who have herpes could be at a higher risk for becoming infected with HIV if exposed to it. Most importantly, if you have had an STD and did not treat it or did not complete the course of medications, you can become re-infected. People who have been diagnosed and treated for either chlamydia or gonorrhea and are given medication for their sexual partners are less likely to become re-infected than people who are told to contact their partners to encourage them to seek treatment.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/std-testing/am-i-at-risk.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/std-testing/basic-info.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/std-testing/basic-info.html#comments Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:27:09 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=243 Read More]]> We help thousands of people get STD testing every day. Have questions about STDs? Here are some easy answers to your not-so-easy questions.

What is an STD?

An STD is a sexually transmitted disease and most people will have an STD in their lifetime. It’s estimated that there are 19 million new cases of STD’s in the U.S. each year. One of the reasons why STD’s are so common is because they are often “silent.” You can be infected without showing any sign of an infection. STD’s are often passed through sexual activity but can be passed to an unborn child during pregnancy, through IV drug needles, skin-to-skin, or through breastfeeding.

How do I know if I have an STD?

Often, STD s like Chlamydia and Gonorrhea have no signs or symptoms. You won’t see a bump or a rash or have an itch. That’s one of the reasons why STD’s are so common and problematic. You are probably reading this because you are worried that you may been infected with an STD. The only way to know if you have an STD is to get a simple STD test. It’s very easy. We help thousands of people each month get answers and get relief fast. Plus, we will connect you with a doctor to go over any concerns you may have. It’s free. That’s health care on your time.

Which STDs can I get tested for?

You can get tested today for the 8 most common STDs: Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Herpes 1, Herpes 2, HIV, and Syphilis. Order here, print your doctor-approved test request form, find a test center near you, and go. You’ll give a blood and urine sample — it’s very quick and anonymous. In 3 days or less, you’ll receive an email from PHN Services, alerting you that results are available on the secure site. Login to view your results. If you’d like to speak with a doctor, we’ll connect you right away. Welcome to the healthcare revolution.

Is oral sex considered “safe sex”?

In a word, no. You can get an STD from oral sex, both giving and receiving. It is a relatively lower-risk activity compared to vaginal or anal sex. But, to be safe, use a latex or polyurethane condom or a dental dam when giving or receiving oral sex. The main concern is cuts or sores in the mouth. Herpes is spread from skin to skin contact. You should know that condoms decrease the risk but are not 100% effective in preventing herpes transmission during oral sex. Syphilis is very easy to spread through oral sex. Bottom line? Oral sex is not safe sex.

What Are the Symptoms of STDs?

Frequently, there are no symptoms. If symptoms are present, they may include one or more of the following:

• Sores, bump and ulcers in the oral or genital area
• Discharge from vagina or penis
• Itching in the genital area
• Painful intercourse
• Painful urination
• Rashes
• Weight loss
• Pain in the lower belly
• Anal or vaginal pain
• Bleeding other than during your period
• Skin turning yellow
• Redness and swelling close to the vagina or penis

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/std-testing/basic-info.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/std-testing/std-panels.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/std-testing/std-panels.html#comments Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:25:25 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=241 Read More]]> Get tested for the 8 most common STDs – Doctor recommended!

Why? Most STDs are silent. It’s very common to have an STD and not know it. Even if you are concerned about a single STD, you may be at risk for other diseases. At $29 per test ($229 / 8), the 8 Test Panel is very affordable and highly recommended by doctors.

1: Chlamydia Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT). This urine test is based on amplification of the DNA that is present in Chlamydia trachomatis. Molecular testing for Chlamydia trachomatis is currently the standard and is widely used. The advantage of molecular tests is that they are generally more sensitive and specific than conventional culture (swabbing) and can identify more positive specimens.

2: Gonorrhea Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT). This urine test is based on amplification of the DNA that is present in Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Molecular testing for Neisseria gonorrhoeae is currently the standard and is widely used. The advantage of molecular tests is that they are generally more sensitive and specific than conventional culture (swabbing) and can therefore identify more positive specimens.

3: Hepatitis B Surface Antigen with Confirmation by Neutralization. This blood test is the earliest indicator of acute hepatitis B. This test can also distinguish between carriers of Hepatitis B and active infections.

4: Hepatitis C Surface Antibody Test (Anti-HCV). This blood test looks for antibodies to the Hepatitis C Virus (HCV). If you get tested before there are enough antibodies to detect, you may get a “false negative” result but still have acute type C viral hepatitis. Also, you may have a positive result if you were exposed and treated for this virus in the past. This test cannot tell if you still have an active viral infection. The CDC suggests that “weakly positive” tests be confirmed with another test within 3 months.

5 and 6: Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 and Type 2 IgG Tests (HerpeSelect (R)). Also known as HerpeSelect, this blood test is a serologic type-specific gG-based assays. Recommended by the CDC, this test looks for antibodies that are specific to the Herpes I virus and the Herpes II. An accurate screening involves either a positive culture that has been typed (1 or 2), or a blood test that accurately distinguishes between types 1 and 2.

7: HIV / AIDS Antibody Test with Reflex to Western Blot Confirmation. HIV (Human Immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that causes AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). HIV breaks down the immune system, making it harder to fight off infections. People who are infected with HIV become sick with infections that normally wouldn’t affect them.

8: Syphilis Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR) Test with Reflex to Quantitative RPR and Confirmatory TP-PA. The blood test finds the antibodies the body makes to fight syphilis. A positive test could indicate a current or previous infection. The blood test might not find antibodies for up to three months after exposure to the bacteria. If you think you may have been exposed to syphilis, getting another test within 6 months is recommended for confirmation. The antibodies stay in the body for years, so if you have had syphilis before and were treated, your test results could still be positive. To avoid being treated again, let your doctor know about your previous infection and/or treatment.


How do I get the results?

You come to our facility and our friendly, trained staff will gently draw a blood sample and send it out to the lab. Most results will be back within 24-48 hr. You can come and pick up your results or you can view your secure lab results online.

With your email address and random generated password, you are able to login into your secure account that is set up during your initial visit. You are in control of your health, You decide how you will receive the results.

No need to pick up the results. You have access to the results at any time and any place.




Peace of mind is just a Private Test away!


]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/std-testing/std-panels.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/std-testing/std-syphilis.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/std-testing/std-syphilis.html#comments Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:23:03 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=238 Read More]]> What is Syphilis?

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease caused by bacteria. The bacterium is passed on through direct contact with syphilis sore. This generally happens through sexual contact, such as vaginal, anal, or oral sex.

If left untreated syphilis can cause severe neurological damage.

An infected mother can spread the disease to her fetus, with serious and potentially fatal consequences for the baby.

Syphilis can be treated and cured with antibiotics.

If left untreated, syphilis can cause serious health risks. Every year, about 40,000 people get infected with syphilis in the United States.

What are the signs or symptoms of syphilis?

Syphilis often has no or very mild symptoms and can often go unnoticed.

In an early stage a sore or open, wet, ulcer may appear. This sore is usually painless. It usually appears 3 weeks after the infection, but it may take longer for the sores to appear, sometimes up to 90 days. The sores will go away again after 3 to 6 weeks. Sores appear on the penis, vagina, anus, or in the mouth.

Three to six weeks after the sores have appeared, people who have syphilis can develop a rash on their palms and feet. These rashes last 2 to 6 weeks and can come and go for 2 years.

If left untreated, people in a later stage of Syphilis can experience damage to the nervous system, heart, brain, and/or other organs which can lead to paralysis, blindness, and even death.

How is syphilis passed on?

Syphilis is spread by contact of syphilis sore. Because syphilis sores mostly occur on male and female genital and anal areas, it is spread by having vaginal and anal intercourse or oral sex.

People are most contagious when sores are present. The fluid inside the sores is very infectious.

How do I get tested for it?

A sample of blood will be tested for antibodies that are specific to a syphilis infection. This test is called the Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR) Test. It can last 4 to 6 weeks after the infection before the antibodies can be detected.

If you had a syphilis infection in the past and were treated for it there is still a possibility that the test will come back positive. It is important that your health care provider knows about this.

Your health care provider may also order a more sensitive test to confirm the results that were found by the RPR to make sure that the first test was not false positive.

Can syphilis be cured?

Yes. Syphilis can be treated and cured with antibiotics in order to kill the bacteria. It is important that both you and your partner are being treated at the same time. Please follow you health care provider’s instructions.

Damage that occurs in a later stage of this disease is irreversible. That is why is its very important to be checked regularly for syphilis so the disease can be detected and treated in an early stage.

What if I don’t get it treated?

If you don’t get treated, you have an increased risk of getting HIV if you are exposed to it.

Although syphilis can be silent for many years in both men and women, if it is left untreated it can cause serious irreversible damage to your health and even death.

For women who are pregnant, untreated syphilis can cause a miscarriage or a stillbirth or the baby can be born with serious birth defects. Pregnant women with syphilis can be treated to prevent harm to the baby.

Did You Know?

30% of people infected with Syphilis show NO signs or symptoms?

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/std-testing/std-syphilis.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/std-testing/genital-herpes.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/std-testing/genital-herpes.html#comments Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:22:29 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=237 Read More]]> What is Herpes I & II?

Herpes is caused by a virus. There are two different forms of herpes: Herpes simplex 1 (HSV 1) and Herpes Simplex 2 (HSV 2). Herpes is a common infection and can be caught easily. The virus stays in your body for the rest of life and symptoms can come and go.

HSV-1 as HSV-2 can both infect the oral area. HSV-1 mostly infects the oral area and HSV-2 the genital area (near the sex organs). HSV-1 is more common than HSV-2 and about 80% of Americans are positive for HSV-1. About 25% of Americans are positive for HSV-2. The CDC estimates that more than 45 million Americans have HSV-2. HSV-1 affect about 65% of Americans and usually it cause cold scores in and around the mouth. Many people are not aware they have herpes because they have never noticed or had any symptoms.

What are the signs or symptoms of Herpes?

HSV-1 causes sores in or around the mouth which can be painful. Usually these symptoms last for a couple of weeks and go away. These scores may come and go and it can take weeks, months, or even years before they come back.

HSV-2 usually causes mild symptoms that people may not be aware of or recognize. The most common signs of HSV-2 are sores on the vagina, vulva, cervix, penis, or anus. It can also cause a painful feeling when you urinate. These sores may come and go and it can take weeks, months, or even years before they reappear. Even if you have no signs of herpes, you can still have it. The only way to be sure is to get tested.

How do you get it?

Herpes can be spread by vaginal, oral, or anal contact, by kissing, and skin to skin contact. It can spread from one person to another or it can spread from one body part to another. Herpes can be passed on very easily, skin contact is enough, especially when the skin is cut, chafed, or burned, or has a rash or other sores. Herpes is the most infectious when the scores are open, moist, or fluid is leaking out.

You can get herpes from skin to skin contact, oral, vaginal, and anal sex. The easiest way for herpes to spread is when there is an open, active sore. But you can still get herpes when there’s no outbreak at all. We’ll say that again. You can still get herpes even when your partner is not having symptoms or showing any open sores.

How can I prevent getting herpes or spreading it?

• Don’t have sexually intercourse if you have signs of herpes, not even when you would use a condom.
• ALWAYS Use a condom between outbreaks.
• There is herpes medication which can help you reduce the risk of spreading herpes by 50%.
• Don’t touch your herpes sores, or the ones of your partner or of any other part of your body.
• Don’t clean or wet your contact lenses with your mouth.
• Don’t kiss other people if you have a cold score.

How do I get tested for Herpes?

You come to our facility and our friendly, expertly trained staff will gently draw your blood and send it out to the lab. Most results will be back within 24-48 hour. The result sheet will tell you if the results are out of range or not and if you do or do not have HSV I or HSV II. If you have any questions, our staff is happy to answer all concerns you may have.

It takes 2 to 3 week after the initial infection before the test will show up positive.

You can come and pick up your results, or we can or you can view your lab results online.

With your email address and random generated password you are also able to login into your account. The account gets setup during your visit once you let us know how you like to receive the results.

No need to pick up the results. You have access to the results at any time and any place.

What else should I know about this screening test?

The window period for antibodies to develop after infection can be anywhere from 2 weeks to 6 months. In the early stage of infection, antibodies may not reach detectable levels. This can vary from person to person. So, for this reason, it is possible to get a false-negative result. If you believe you have been infected, a repeat test at 3 months after exposure may be recommended. There is also a very small chance of a false-positive result. If you believe that your risk for herpes is very low, it is recommended to have another test done at a later date to confirm the results.

“When she asked for a gift that would last FOREVER she didn’t men GENITAL HERPES”

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/std-testing/genital-herpes.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/std-testing/hepatitis.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/std-testing/hepatitis.html#comments Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:21:40 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=236 Read More]]> What is Hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B is an infection of the liver and is caused by a virus called the Hepatitis B Virus (HBV). Of the three different kind of Hepatitis virus (A,B and C) Hepatitis B is the one that is most likely spread by sexual activity. The Hepatitis B virus is passed on through semen, vaginal fluids, blood, and urine.

Hepatitis B can lead to liver disorders like liver failure, liver cancer and even death. About 50,000 people get infected with Hepatitis B every year and there are about 1 million in the U.S. with chronic Hepatitis B.

Are there signs or symptoms?

Hepatitis B often has no signs or symptoms. About half of the people who have Hepatitis B never have symptoms. Many people who are infected with Hepatitis B are not aware of it.

When symptoms develop it is usually between six weeks to six months after the infection and it can feel like flu like symptoms. You may extremely tired feel tired, have no appetite, vomit, have a headache, and feel itchy.

In a later stage you can experience more severe abdominal pain, your urine can become dark and your stool can become pale-colored. Also jaundice can occur. This is a condition in which your skin and eyes can turn yellow.

How do you get Hepatitis B?

The Hepatitis B can be spread through blood, semen, vaginal fluid, and urine. This can happen when you have unprotected sexual intercourse or oral sex. It can also happen when you share needles or personal hygiene utensils such as razors or toothbrushes.

People who work in the health care industry are also more at risk because of accidental pricks with contaminate needles or surgical instruments.

A mother can also infect the baby during the birth process. 90% of all the children born to women with Hepatitis B will get infected. Immediate treatment of the baby can be very effective.
Women who are pregnant and might be exposed to Hepatitis B should therefore be tested before giving birth

Hepatitis B is spread by contact with an infected person’s blood or sexual fluids. This can happen during vaginal, anal, and oral sex or from sharing needles. People who have contact with blood, like healthcare professionals, or who share toothbrushes or razor blades with someone who is infected, are also at a greater risk for the virus. As this virus is spread through blood, people wonder if they can get it from a mosquito bite. The answer? No. There are no known cases worldwide of Hepatitis B spread through mosquitoes.

How do I get tested for it?

You come to our facility and our friendly, trained staff will gently draw a blood sample and send it out to the lab. Most results will be back within 24-48 hr. You can come and pick up your results, or we can or you can view your lab results online.

With your email address and random generated password you are also able to login into your account. The account gets setup during your visit once you let us know how you like to receive the results.

No need to pick up the results. You have access to the results at any time and any place.

Is there a cure or treatment?

No, there is not a medicine that can cure Hepatitis B. Mostly, Hepatitis B cures by itself although it can take up to 4 to 8 weeks. More than 90% of adults recover completely.

However, 5% of the adults who get infected with Hepatitis B will develop a chronic infection, which means they are infected in the long term with this virus. 90% of babies who get infected with Hepatitis B during the birth process will become chronically infected if they don’t get treated immediately.
People who have a chronic infection stay contagious for the rest of their lives.

What can I do to prevent getting Hepatitis B?

First of all use a condom every time and with every partner if you are sexually active. Don’t share needles, razor blades, or toothbrushes with an infected person.

People who are at risk for Hepatitis B or children are recommended to get vaccinated for
Hepatitis B.

• Health care workers who get in contact with blood
• Men who are sexually active with other men
• Sexually active people who have different partners.
• People who have an STD.
• IV drug users.
]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/std-testing/hepatitis.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/std-testing/std-hepatitis-c.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/std-testing/std-hepatitis-c.html#comments Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:20:17 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=234 Read More]]> CDC recommends effective immediately all baby boomers get a one time Hepatitis C blood test..

What is Hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C is a viral infection caused by the Hepatitis C virus that can cause liver disease. Usually Hepatitis C does not have any symptoms. During the first stage (the first 6 months) the virus can go away if treated early. After 6 months, the disease becomes chronic and can cause liver failure, liver cancer, or even death. Of the people who get infected with Hepatitis C, 8 out of 10 persons develop chronic Hepatitis C.

What kind of symptoms accompanies Hepatitis C?

During the first stage most people do not have any symptoms. When symptoms develop, you may feel fatigued, loss of appetite, nausea, have belly pain, and the color of skin and eyes may turn yellow. When you develop chronic Hepatitis C, it can take many years before you get any symptoms. At that point symptoms can include bone pain, pain in your belly, excessive bleeding and other symptoms caused by liver damage.

How does Hepatitis C spread?

Hepatitis C is transmitted through the blood of an infected person. This can happen through sharing needles or by sticking yourself accidentally with a Hepatitis C contaminated needle. The probability of getting infected through sexual contact is possible though the chance is small.

How do I get tested for Hepatitis C?

You can come to our facility and our friendly, trained staff will gently draw a blood sample and send it out to the lab. Most results will be back within 24-48 hr. You can come and pick up your results, or we can or you can view your lab results online.

With your email address and random generated password you are also able to login into your account. The account gets setup during your visit once you let us know how you like to receive the results.

No need to pick up the results. You have access to the results at any time and any place.

Can it be treated?

Hepatitis C may go away by itself; Once it is chronic it can be treated with antiviral medicines to prevent the disease from getting worse.

What if I don’t get it treated?

Untreated Hepatitis C can result in liver damage or death. Unfortunately, there is not a vaccine against Hepatitis C. The best way to prevent Hepatitis C is to not share needles and to use a condom every time when you are sexually active.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/std-testing/std-hepatitis-c.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/std-testing/hiv-testing.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/std-testing/hiv-testing.html#comments Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:18:52 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=232 Read More]]> What is HIV / Aids?

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that causes AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). HIV breaks down the immune system, making it harder to fight off infections. People who are infected with HIV become sick with infections that normally wouldn’t affect them.

When somebody gets tested positive for HIV, this does not automatically mean that they already have AIDS. AIDS is the most advanced stage of HIV infection. It can take years before the signs of HIV show up. The only way you can be sure that you are not infected is by getting tested. Nowadays there is medication that can keep the quality of life of people who are HIV positive at a good level for a long time.

In the U.S. about 1.1 million people are living with HIV. About 40,000 people in the U.S. will get infected with HIV every year.

Are there signs or symptoms?

Many people with HIV have no symptoms. It can take more than 10 years to develop symptoms. Symptoms that may occur shortly after the infection are swollen glands, slight fever, headaches, tiredness and muscle pain. These usually last no more than a few weeks. After this then there are generally no HIV symptoms for many years.



How can I get tested for HIV?

You come to our facility and our friendly, trained staff will gently draw a blood sample and send it out to the lab. Most results will be back within 24-48 hr. You can come and pick up your results, or we can or you can view your lab results online.

With your email address and random generated password you are also able to login into your account. The account get setup during your visit once you let us know how you like to receive the results.

No need to pick up the results. You have access to the results at any time and any place.

ANY LAB TEST NOW, now also offers a Rapid HIV Test and results are instantly available within 15 minutes.

Is there a cure or treatment?

Currently there is no cure or vaccine for HIV/AIDS, but there are treatments for people who have HIV/AIDS. Thanks to these treatments, people are now able to live for many years with HIV/AIDS. The treatments consist of combinations of medicines called “cocktails” and will strengthen your immune system. They do not work for everyone and may cause side effects. New research is still being done and new treatments are constantly being developed that will help people with HIV/AIDS live even longer.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/std-testing/hiv-testing.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/std-testing/chlamydia.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/std-testing/chlamydia.html#comments Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:18:01 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=228 Read More]]> What is Chlamydia?

Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted disease caused by bacteria. Chlamydia is spread by having unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex. Chlamydia is the most common STD in the U.S. Every year in the U.S. about 2.9 million people get infected with Chlamydia.

What are the signs or symptoms of Chlamydia?

Usually people who are infected with Chlamydia have no symptoms. That is why most people don’t know that they are infected. If you do get symptoms it can take weeks for them to appear. Chlamydia symptoms for women can include pain in the belly, abnormal vaginal discharge, blood loss between periods, and painful urinating. Men can also experience painful urination, abnormal discharge from the penis, swelling around the anus and a painful feeling on or around the penis.

How do you get it?

Chlamydia is spread by having unprotected vaginal and/or anal sex. In rare cases, it can be spread during oral sex or if you touch your eye with your hand. A mother can also pass it on to her baby during birth. Chlamydia can be passed along even if the penis or tongue doesn’t fully enter the vagina or anus. The best way to protect yourself is by using a condom 100% of the time.

How do I get tested for Chlamydia?

You come to our facility and our friendly, trained staff will collect an urine sample and send it out to the lab. Most results will be back within 24-48 hr. You can come and pick up your results, or we can or you can view your lab results online.

With your email address and random generated password you are also able to login into your account. The account gets setup during your visit once you let us know how you like to receive the results.

No need to pick up the results. You have access to the results at any time and any place.

It is important that you haven’t urinated 1 hr before you come to our facility.

Is there a treatment for Chlamydia?

Yes, there is. Chlamydia can easily be treated with antibiotics. It is important that both you and your partner(s) get treated. Please follow your doctor’s instructions.

What if I don’t get it treated?

If Chlamydia doesn’t get treated it can have serious consequences for your health. In women affected by Chlamydia almost half can develop PID (pelvic inflammatory disease). PID, if not treated, can lead to infertility or increase the chance of having a tubal pregnancy. In men, it can cause an infection of the testicles and prostate, which can also lead to sterility.

Did You Know?

50% of all men and 75% of all women with Chlamydia do not even know that they are infected and show NO visible signs?

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/std-testing/chlamydia.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/std-testing/gonorrhea.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/std-testing/gonorrhea.html#comments Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:17:57 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=229 Read More]]> What is Gonorrhea?

Gonorrhea is an infection caused by a certain kind of bacteria. Gonorrhea is a very common and curable STD. It’s passed on by having vaginal, oral, or anal sex. Gonorrhea is also known as “the clap” or the “drip”. Gonorrhea is a common and curable STD and according to the CDC it infects about 700,000 men and women in the United States every year. If gonorrhea is left untreated it can cause serious health risks like infertility.

What are the signs or symptoms of Gonorrhea?

The symptoms of gonorrhea in both men and women are often mild or not detectable at all. That is why it is very possible that you and your partner are not aware that you have gonorrhea.

Symptoms for women include: • Belly pain • bleeding between menstrual periods • fever • irregular menstruation’s • painful intercourse • painful urination • swelling or tenderness of the vulva • the urge to urinate more than usual • throwing up • unusual vaginal discharge

Symptoms for men include: • discharge from the penis • pain urinating • more frequent urination than usual

How is gonorrhea passed on?

Gonorrhea is passed on by vaginal, oral, or anal sex. Gonorrhea can also be passed on from mother to baby during birth.

The best way to protect yourself from gonorrhea or any other STD is using a condom every time have anal, oral, or vaginal sex.

How do I get tested for Gonorrhea?

The Gonorrhea Nucleic Acid Amplification (NAA) Test is performed on a urine sample and is offered in our comprehensive STD Panel and Chlamydia + Gonorrhea Panel or as an individual test. This test is highly recommended by the CDC for its accuracy.

Most results will be back within 24-48 hr. You can come and pick up your results, or we can or you can view your lab results online.

With your email address and random generated password you are also able to login into your account. The account gets setup during your visit once you let us know how you like to receive the results.

No need to pick up the results. You have access to the results at any time and any place.

In order to get the most accurate test results it is best not to urinate 1 hr before coming to our facility.

Can gonorrhea be cured?

Yes. Gonorrhea can be cured by an antibiotic treatment which will kill the bacteria. Your health care provider can supply you with a prescription.

Both you and your partner must be treated for gonorrhea before you have sex again; This way you can avoid becoming infected again. Some health care providers will give you medicine to take home for your partner(s) as well.

It is important to always follow the instructions of your healthcare provider.
It is very common for people who have been diagnosed with gonorrhea to be infected with Chlamydia as well. Therefore, we recommend you to take the Chlamydia+Gonorrhea Panel. This way your healthcare provider can treat you for both STD’s at the same time.

What can happen if I don’t get it treated?

For men, untreated gonorrhea may lead to a painful infection of the testicles. One out of five men with untreated gonerrhea will this infection which can lead to infertility. Other effects of gonorrhea in men can be: inflammation of the prostate and urethral scarring.

In women, if not treated, gonorrhea can cause Pelvis inflammatory disease (PID). One out of five women with untreated gonorrhea will develop PID. This can lead to potentially dangerous tubal pregnancy or affect the ability of the women to get pregnant.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/std-testing/gonorrhea.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/drug-testing/statistics.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/drug-testing/statistics.html#comments Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:16:30 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=225 Read More]]> Teen Drug Abuse Statistics

Teen drug use is a reality in most schools. Alcohol is by far the greatest drug in use among high school students. Of other drugs, marijuana is the most commonly used drug among teens. Even though most teens do not use drugs every day, the truth is that most teens have had some sort of experience with drugs at least one point in their lives. And, in the case of alcohol, nearly every teen has tried it.

High school seniors and teen drug use:

According to a survey, teens in high school admitted to using drugs or alcohol in the past 30 days:

• Alcohol: 48%
• Marijuana: 19.9%
• Stimulants: 4.6%
• Other opiates: 4.3%
• Tranquilizers: 3.1%
• Sedatives: 2.9%
• Hallucinogens: 1.9%
• Cocaine: 2.3%
• Inhalants: 1.5%
• Steroids: 1.6%
• Heroin: 0.5%




The numbers change, however, when teen drug use is expanded to include usage over the past year:

• Alcohol: 70.6%
• Marijuana: 34.3%
• Stimulants-Uppers: 10%
• Other opiates: 9.5%
• Tranquilizers: 7.3%
• Sedatives: 6.5%
• Hallucinogens: 6.2%
• Cocaine: 5.3%
• Inhalants: 4.2%
• Steroids: 2.5%
• Heroin: 0.9%

“Hard” drugs

In the area of hard drugs, teen drug use has been declining. Use of the strong drugs is much less than it was in the 1960s and 1970s. Indeed, only 8.1% of high school seniors report that they have ever used cocaine, and only 1.5% report any use of heroin. The use of hallucinogens and most opiates is also lower. It is marijuana that causes the greatest amount of concern regarding teen drug use.

Teen drug use: Marijuana

Marijuana use has increased since 1992. The past-month use has dramatically increased among teenagers of all ages:

• High school seniors: from 12% in 1992 to 20%
• 10th graders: from 8% in 1992 to 16%
• 8th graders: from 4% in 1992 to 6%

Indeed, almost half (45.7%) of high school seniors report that they have used marijuana at some point during their teenage years.

Availability of drugs to teenagers

Even among teens that do not use drugs, it is acknowledged that they are fairly easy to come by. 29% of teens in grades 9 through 12 report that illegal drugs were made available to them on school property. Not only that, 38.4% of teens in public schools report that drugs are readily available (as opposed to 22.4% at private schools). Teens in upper grades report greater access to drugs than do teenagers in lower grades. And 62.9% report that street gangs are present to sell the drugs.

Here are the rates, reported by teens, as to which drugs they knew how to obtain easily:

• Marijuana: 85.8%
• Amphetamines: 55.4%
• Cocaine: 47.8%
• Barbiturates: 46.3%
• Crack: 39.2%
• LSD: 33.1%
• Tranquilizers: 30.1%
• Heroin: 29.6%
• Crystal meth: 26.7%
• PCP: 24.2%




So, even if teens do not use drugs, it is clear that they are readily available, either at school or by some other means. And it is also clear that teen drug use, while declining in some areas, is rising as far as marijuana use is concerned.

Sources: “Drug Use: Youth,” Bureau of Justice Statistics. U.S. Department of Justice.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/drug-testing/statistics.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/drug-testing/teen-drug-testing.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/drug-testing/teen-drug-testing.html#comments Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:15:28 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=224 Read More]]>

Trust, but Verify.

Teen drug use is on the rise, and powerful drugs are more accessible to teens then ever before. Kids don’t always make the right decisions, and the wrong decision with drugs can lead to addiction and even permanent brain damage.

The use of illegal drugs is increasing, especially among young teens. The average age of first marijuana use is 14, and alcohol use can start before age 12. The use of marijuana and alcohol in high school has become common.

Drug use is associated with a variety of negative consequences, including increased risk of serious drug use later in life, school failure, and poor judgment which may put teens at risk for accidents, violence, unplanned and unsafe sex, and suicide.

Testing your teen is proven to help with peer pressure. Give them an extra reason why they can’t
just “try it one time.” ANY LAB TEST NOW® offers the most accurate tests on the market. Speak with our staff to see how our tests can be tailored to meet your family’s unique needs.

Signs your child may be using drugs:

• Unusual aggressive behavior
• Hanging out with a different crowd
• Sleepy
• Grades slipping
• Losing interest in their favorite activities
• Secrecy
• Private phone calls, texts and emails
• Unusual aggressive behavior
• More focus on money
• Mood swings
• Memory loss
• Red or runny eyes and nose
• Change in appetite
• Depression




What you can do:

• Talk to your child often
• Know their friends
• Monitor their cell phone, text, and Internet usage
• Know where they are, and who they’re with
• Discuss drugs and their effects on developing brains




Why Home Testing Isn’t Recommended:

While there are a lot of over-the-counter drug tests available, there are several reasons to use a trusted third-party to drug test your teen:

• Our employees are highly trained in collecting specimens, and are not fooled by attempts to ‘trick’ the tests.
• Using a neutral 3rd party takes any unnecessary ‘blame’ off of the parent for positive tests.
• Laboratory tests are the most accurate tests available to the public.




ANY LAB TEST NOW® offers Discreet, Confidential and Accurate
the following drug tests :

• Urine Rapid Screen Drug Test: This is a 5 or 10 panel drug test which we perform at our facility. Results will available within minutes. Positive results can be confirmed at the lab at no extra charge.
  Drugs in the Rapid Screen Drug Test are: Amphetamines, Methamphetamines, Cocaine, Marijuana, Opiates, Phencyclidine, Barbiturate, Benzodiazepine, Methadone, Methaqualone, Propoxyphene. Oxycodone, Ecstasy.
  
  
• Urine Drug Test: This is a 5 or 10 panel drug screen test which we directly send out to the lab. Results come back within 1 to 3 days depending if positives are found that need to be confirmed.
  Drugs in the Rapid Screen Drug Test are: Amphetamines, Methamphetamines, Cocaine, Marijuana, Opiates, Phencyclidine, Barbiturate, Benzodiazepine, Methadone, Methaqualone, Propoxyphene. Oxycodone, Ecstasy.

• Hair Drug Test: This is a 5, 7 or 10 panel drug test performed on hair. For this test we collect several hair samples close to the scalp. Don’t worry we can take small samples of different areas on the scalp so it will not be visible afterwards. The big advantage of a hair follicle drug test is that it shows drug use as far back as 90 days.
  Drugs in the hair follicle drug test: Amphetamines, Methampheatmines, Cocaine, Marijuana, Opiates, Phencyclidine, Barbiturates, Benzodiazepine, Oxycodone, Hydrocodone.
  

• Teen Drug Testing Program: Sign your Teen up for our Teen Drug Testing Program. To make sure that your teen is not using drugs it is important to screen him/her on a regular basis. It is not only for you to be sure that your teen is not using drugs, but it also gives your teen a great tool to resist peer pressure.
  Now they can say, “I can’t take it even once because my parents check me on a regular bases”. We advise you to have your teen screened every month. Ask for special pricing for our Teen Drug Testing Program.
  



Drug Also Known As Overview:

Drug Tested	Also Known As
AMP Amphetamine/ Methamphetamine	Speed, Uppers, Whites, Dexies, Crank, Black Beauties, Benny, Crystal, Jelly Beans, White Cross
BAR Barbiturates	Downers, Barbs, Goof Balls, Reds, Yellows, Blues, Dolls, M&M’s, Red Devils
BZO Benzodiazepines	Bennies, Downers, Tranqs
COC Cocaine	Coke, Crack, Rock cocaine
MDMA 3,4 Methylenedioxy-methamphetamine	Ecstasy, XTC, ADAM, Lover’s Speed, X, Hug Drug, Beans, Love Drug
MTD Methadone	Fizzies, Done, Dolophine, Methadose, Dolls
OPI Opiates	Codeine (School Boy), Morphine (M, Miss Emma), Heroin (Smack, Horse, Junk, China White)
PCP Phencyclidine	Angel Dust, Devil Stick, Dummy Dust, Wack
THC Cannabinioids / Marijuana	Dope, Weed, Hemp, Hash, Colombian, Sinsemilla, Pot, Reefer, Joint, Smoke, Weed




ANY LAB TEST NOW promises to keep your results completely confidential. It won’t go into your medical records. You can even do it anonymously.
Our friendly staff will assist your with any questions you have and will treat each case as discreetly as possible. For even more privacy we offer after hour appointments.

Click here to see the Teen Drug Abuse Statistics.

Drug-Testing Programs Influence Teen Behavior

“The Effectiveness of Mandatory-Random Student Drug Testing”

Students involved in extracurricular activities and subject to in-school random drug testing reported using drugs less often than their peers in high schools that didn’t have drug-testing programs, according to a federal evaluation of 4,700 students spread across seven states.

The study was funded by the Institute of Education Sciences, a branch of the U.S. Department of Education, and conducted by RMC Research Corp., based in Portsmouth, N.H., and Princeton, N.J.-based Mathematica Policy Research. The researchers said the study, which was posted online last month, is the largest and most rigorous examination of drug-testing programs to date.

Sixteen percent of students who were subject to drug testing in the study reported using substances covert by their district’s testing program in the previous 30 days, compared with 22 percent of similar students in schools without a drug-testing program.

But the presence of the drug-testing program did not affect students’ reported intentions to use covered substances in the future, the study shows. In the schools with drug testing, 34 percent of students reported they “definitely” or “probably” would use substances covered by their school’s drug-testing program in the next 12 months. In schools without testing, 33 percent of students reported they would definitely or probably use covered substances.

In the one-year period of the study, there was no evidence of positive spillover effects from drug testing: The same proportion of students in drug-testing schools who were not subject to the policy because they didn’t play sports or weren’t involved in extracurricular activities reported substance use as students in schools that did not conduct drug tests.

(Published in Print: August 11, 2010, as Drug-Testing Programs Influence Teen Behavior)

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/drug-testing/teen-drug-testing.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/hair-drug-screen.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/hair-drug-screen.html#comments Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:15:01 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=223 Read More]]> The Hair 5-Panel Drug Screen tests for the following drugs:
• 1. Amphetamines (including Ecstasy)
• 2. Cocaine
• 3. Marijuana (THC)
• 4. Opiates
• 5. Phencyclidine (PCP)

The Hair 10-Panel Drug Screen tests for the following drugs:

• 1. Amphetamines
• 2. Cocaine
• 3. Marijuana (THC)
• 4. Opiates
• 5. Phencyclidine (PCP)
• 6. Barbiturates
• 7. Benzodiazepines
• 8. PXP
• 9. Methadone
• 10. Methaqualone

The Hair 5-Panel Drug Screen uses the only drug testing method available that will determine a drug usage history of up to 90-days. Compared to urine drug testing, hair testing is generally more accurate and because of its longer detection window, provides a lot more ‘positives.’ Even better, there’s virtually no way to taint a hair sample. Another benefit is that hair drug testing is forensically defensible – meaning, the results can be admissible in court.

The test is quite simple and non-invasive. An ANY LAB TEST NOW® associate will collect a sample of hair and within days, you will have the results.

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/hair-drug-screen.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/urine-drug-screen.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/urine-drug-screen.html#comments Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:13:45 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=221 Read More]]>

Urine testing, one of the most common screening methods, is an accurate and reliable way to detect casual drug use that occurred within the past 72 hours.

The accuracy is of a urine drug test is dependent on how the testing is done. Drug testing is extremely accurate and reliable when all aspects of the testing process are done properly. On the other hand, the information obtained may be very misleading and inaccurate when poor procedures or testing methods are used.

Drug testing will only be reliable when the consumer knows how it should be done and then demands from the industry that it is done properly.

The staff at ANY LAB TEST NOW®® is fully DOT qualified and works according strict regulations. Every sample is sent out to a SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) certified lab to make sure that high quality testing is guaranteed. Urine drug screen are used for pre-employment drug screening, random drug screening and private drug screening.

The detection of a drug in urine is subject to the timing and doses taken. People who have used illegal drugs may allow their body to clear if they have enough time. That is why it is important not to notify the person to far ahead. Usually a limit of 24 hours is acceptable to detect most drugs. See Detection Time in Urine Table.

Drugs Tested	Also known As	10 Panel Test	5 Panel Test	Detection Time in Urine
AMP Amphetamine	Speed	x	X	1 – 2 Days
BAR Barbiturates	Downers, Barbs, Goof Balls, Reds,Yellow Jackets	X		2 Days – 3 Weeks
BZO Benzodiazepines	Bennies	X		3 Days – 6 Weeks
COC Cocaine	Coke, Crack, Rock cocaine	X	X	2 – 4 Days
MAMP Methamphetamine	Speed, Ice, Chrystal, Crank	X	X	1 – 2 Days
MDMA 3,4 Methylenedioxy-methamphetamine	Ecstasy, XTC, ADAM, Lover’s Speed	X		1 – 2 Days
MTD Methadone	Fizzies	X		3 Days
OPI2 Opiates	Codeine	X	X	2 Days
PCP Phencyclidine		X		6 hrs – 2 Days
THC Cannabinioids / Marijuana	Dope, Weed, Hemp, Hash, Colombian, Sinsemilla	X	X	2 Days – 2 Months

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/uncategorized/urine-drug-screen.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/dna-testing/immigration-dna.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/dna-testing/immigration-dna.html#comments Sun, 21 Feb 2010 16:40:40 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=201 Read More]]>

A LOCAL SOLUTION FOR IMMIGRATION DNA TESTING

ANY LAB TEST NOW® is your local resource for legally-admissible DNA testing results when required for immigration.


From collection of the specimens through delivery of the test results, ANY LAB TEST NOW® is your single point of contact throughout the entire process:

• Collection from Petitioner
• Completing chain-of-custody documentation
• Communicating with foreign embassies and consulates
• Providing all materials necessary for collection of the Beneficiary’s DNA sample




When applying for residency, time is often of the essence. With ANY LAB TEST NOW®, there is no appointment required. Just stop by one of our convenient locations and the process can start right away; we help coordinate everything. All of our tests comply with all U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS) procedures and regulations. We’ll provide you with legally-admissible and accepted proof of your family relationship

We offer a comprehensive Immigration DNA Test that provides court-admissible evidence for immigration purposes.

If you (also called the Petitioner) are trying to help a family member (the Beneficiary) get into the United States, you may need to prove your relationship through DNA evidence if other evidence (birth certificate, school records, etc.) is insufficient.

Our vast experience with immigration clients and agencies worldwide sets us apart as the most trustworthy provider of DNA testing services for immigration.

Immigration DNA Testing

DNA testing is the most accurate and conclusive method of verifying biological relationships and ANY LAB TEST NOW® offers a conclusive and affordable option.

We treat every case with utmost respect, confidentiality and sensitivity.

Accredited by AABB

Our laboratory partner is accredited by AABB and other organizations. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), U.S. embassies, and many immigration offices around the world require that DNA parentage tests for immigration purposes be performed by laboratories accredited by AABB.

Any Lab Test Now® understands that immigration is a long process involving many steps. We strive to make the DNA testing portion of the process as simple for our clients as possible. Our dedicated Immigration Team has working relationships with embassies all over the world and are familiar with the procedures set forth by the USCIS and U.S. embassies.

You can leave it all up to us. We will take care of the whole procedure from the beginning to the end.

Our service includes:

• Collection of DNA of person in US
• Back and forth shipping of DNA Kit to foreign country
• Arranging Collection in Foreign country
• DNA testing of 2 persons
• Sending test results to US immigration Service



For a free consultation about immigration DNA testing from ANY LAB TEST NOW please call our special Immigration Department at (561) 237-5009.


]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/dna-testing/immigration-dna.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/dna-testing/dna-testing-legal-paternity.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/dna-testing/dna-testing-legal-paternity.html#comments Sun, 21 Feb 2010 16:37:47 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=196 Read More]]>

A Legally-Admissible Paternity Test could be the single most important test your child ever takes because it’s critical in determining parental rights and child support.

Inaccurate results can create life-altering circumstances. That’s why you can’t afford to cut corners with a lower-quality test.

Our Legally-Admissible Paternity Test gives you an accurate determination (with 99% or more certainty) of who the child’s biological father is. The difference between a Informational Paternity Test and a Legally-Admissible Paternity Test is that the Legal Paternity Test is admissible in a court of law.

If you need your test results for Child Support, Social Security Benefits, Placing name on birth certificate or Removing name from a birth certificate or other legal purposes, get the


Legally-Admissible Paternity Test

How does it work?

• A DNA sample is collected with 2 special swabs that are rubbed around the inside of both cheeks (from the child and the alleged father). This is a painless and fast procedure. A sample from the mother is NOT required, but can be useful.
• For legal DNA test we use the Chain of Custody documentation process to ensure that the results will stand up in court.









What is a Chain of Custody?

The Chain of Custody process makes sure that your results will be acceptable in court of law when paternity has to be proven.

In order to establish a chain of custody the following process will be followed.

• Samples are collected by an neutral third party, such as a clinic or laboratory.
• The samples are carefully tracked and matched to the person tested throughout the entire DNA testing process.



The Chain of Custody process requires samples to be taken by a neutral third party. The medical assistants who collect your sample are specially trained for this type of testing.

Our DNA test providers are accredited by leading institutions.




Call (561) 237-5009 for One price with no hidden fees!

]]> http://www.labbocaraton.com/dna-testing/dna-testing-legal-paternity.html/feed 0 http://www.labbocaraton.com/dna-testing/dna-paternity-test.html http://www.labbocaraton.com/dna-testing/dna-paternity-test.html#comments Sun, 21 Feb 2010 16:34:55 +0000 admin http://anylabtestnowfl.com/?p=193 Read More]]>

This DNA Paternity test gives you an accurate determination (with 99% or more certainty) of who the child’s biological father is.

To determine the biological father of your child.


Informational Paternity Test

We all inherit our DNA from our biological parents — half from our mother, and half from our father. A DNA paternity test compares a child’s DNA pattern with that of an “alleged father” to determine if there is a match. When performed correctly in an experienced laboratory, it’s the most definitive proof of a biological relationship.

We make the process for you very simple and easy. It starts by taking saliva samples to obtain DNA from the child and the alleged father. A sample from the mother is NOT required, but can be useful. An analysis of the child and mom’s DNA can be used to help pinpoint the exact “genetic markers” that came from the father. Then the DNA of the potential father is analyzed to determine the probability that his genetic markers are found in the child. This is known as a percentage of probability of paternity.

NOTE: Informational Paternity Test is not admissible in court. If you need the results to be admissible in court, click here for Legally-Admissible Paternity Test.

Procedure

Our professional medical assistant will rub a few swabs on the inside of both cheeks of the child and possible father to determine the paternity of a single child. If more than one child is being tested or if there is more than one alleged father, additional fees will be incurred. If you have a specimen with DNA on it, please ask the sales associate if we are able to do the test on your specimen and for additional pricing.






“DNA Testing Any Lab Test Now Boca Raton”






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Our DNA test providers are accredited by leading institutions.

• American Association of Blood Banks (AABB)
• ACLASS Accreditation Services (ISO/IEC 17025)
• ASCLD/LAB-International
• College of American Pathologists (CAP)
• Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA)




“One in twenty children does not know their biological father.”

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