Pathology Tests

Pathology tests are medical diagnostic procedures that analyze samples of blood, urine, tissue, or other bodily fluids to detect diseases, monitor health conditions, and guide treatment decisions. They play a critical role in disease prevention, diagnosis, and management.

These tests are typically conducted in laboratories and are essential for accurate medical assessments across all specialties.

Types of Pathology Tests

• Hematology Tests — Assess blood health (e.g., Complete Blood Count [CBC], ESR)
• Biochemistry Tests — Evaluate organ function (e.g., liver function tests, blood sugar, cholesterol)
• Microbiology Tests — Detect infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi (e.g., culture tests)
• Histopathology — Examination of tissue samples (e.g., biopsy analysis)
• Cytology — Study of cells (e.g., Pap smear)
• Immunology Tests — Detect immune-related conditions (e.g., autoimmune disorders, allergies)
• Molecular Pathology — Analyze DNA/RNA for genetic and infectious diseases
• Urine and Stool Analysis — Detect infections, kidney issues, digestive problems

Uses of Pathology Tests

• Diagnosing infections and chronic diseases
• Monitoring diabetes, kidney, and liver function
• Screening for cancer and genetic disorders
• Evaluating organ function
• Supporting pre-surgical evaluations
• Monitoring the effectiveness of treatments
• Early detection of health conditions

Preparation

Preparation depends on the specific test, but generally includes:

• Fasting: Required for blood sugar, lipid profile, and some hormone tests
• Hydration: Drink adequate water before urine tests
• Medication Disclosure: Inform your healthcare provider of all current medications
• Sample Collection: Follow sample collection instructions strictly for accurate results
• Avoid Alcohol and Certain Foods: Prior to some tests like liver function or allergy tests

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are pathology tests painful?
Most tests, such as blood draws or urine samples, involve minimal discomfort.

2. Do I need to fast before every test?
Not all tests require fasting. Your healthcare provider will let you know which ones do.

3. How soon will I get my test results?
Basic tests may provide results within hours; complex tests might take a few days.

4. Can I take my regular medication before the test?
Some tests may require pausing certain medications. Consult your doctor beforehand.

5. Are pathology tests safe during pregnancy?
Yes, most routine pathology tests are safe for pregnant women.

6. How accurate are pathology test results?
Laboratory tests are highly accurate when conducted correctly and interpreted properly.

7. What should I bring for the test?
Carry a doctor’s prescription (if applicable), valid ID, and any prior test reports.

8. Can I do pathology tests at home?
Yes, We offer home collection services for samples like blood or urine. Check with your provider.

Genetic Tests (Pathology)

Genetic testing in pathology involves the analysis of DNA, RNA, chromosomes, or proteins to detect inherited conditions, assess disease risks, and personalize treatment strategies. These tests provide insights into a person’s genetic makeup and help diagnose a wide range of genetic disorders, including cancer predispositions, congenital anomalies, and rare inherited diseases.

Genetic testing is often recommended for individuals with a family history of certain diseases or symptoms suggesting a genetic cause.

Types of Genetic Tests

• Diagnostic Genetic Testing — Identifies or confirms a suspected genetic condition
• Predictive/Presymptomatic Testing — Assesses the risk of developing inherited disorders (e.g., BRCA1/BRCA2 for breast cancer)
• Carrier Testing — Determines if a person carries a gene for a recessive condition
• Prenatal Genetic Testing — Detects genetic conditions in a fetus
• Newborn Screening — Screens newborns for metabolic and genetic disorders
• Pharmacogenomic Testing — Predicts response to certain medications based on genetic profile
• Whole Exome/Genome Sequencing — Provides comprehensive genetic analysis

Uses of Genetic Testing

• Diagnosing inherited genetic disorders
• Assessing risk for certain cancers and diseases
• Determining carrier status in family planning
• Tailoring medical treatments to genetic profiles
• Monitoring and managing genetic conditions
• Identifying inherited causes of unexplained symptoms
• Supporting early intervention and personalized medicine

Preparation

• Pre-test Counseling: Usually recommended to explain benefits, limitations, and potential outcomes
• Family History: Providing a detailed family health history helps in test selection and interpretation
• Informed Consent: You may need to sign a consent form before testing
• Sample Collection: Usually involves a blood sample, cheek swab, or tissue sample
• No Fasting Required: Most genetic tests do not require fasting unless paired with other diagnostics

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is genetic testing used for?
It helps detect inherited conditions, assess disease risks, and guide personalized treatments.

2. Is genetic testing safe?
Yes, it usually involves a simple blood draw or cheek swab and carries no physical risk.

3. How accurate is genetic testing?
Genetic tests are highly accurate but must be interpreted in a clinical context.

4. Do I need genetic counseling?
Yes, genetic counseling is often recommended before and after testing to understand results and implications.

5. Can genetic tests predict all diseases?
No, they can assess risk but not all diseases have a known or testable genetic component.

6. Is my genetic information confidential?
Yes, your genetic data is protected under privacy laws and handled with strict confidentiality.

7. Will insurance cover genetic testing?
It depends on your policy and the medical necessity of the test. Always check with your insurer.

8. Can genetic testing be done at home?
Some tests are available for home collection, but clinical-grade testing is typically done in certified labs.

Cancer Marker Test (Tumor Marker Test)

Cancer marker tests, also known as tumor marker tests, are specialized blood tests that measure the levels of certain proteins or substances produced by cancer cells or by the body in response to cancer. These tests are often used alongside imaging and biopsy to help diagnose, monitor, and manage different types of cancer.

Uses of Cancer Marker Tests

• Early detection and diagnosis of certain cancers
• Monitoring cancer treatment response (chemotherapy, radiation, surgery)
• Checking for cancer recurrence after treatment
• Identifying cancer progression or spread
• Supporting differential diagnosis when combined with other investigations

Types of Cancer Marker Tests

• Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) – for prostate cancer
• CA-125 – for ovarian cancer
• Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) – for liver & testicular cancers
• Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) – for colorectal & pancreatic cancer
• CA 19-9 – for pancreatic & gastrointestinal cancers
• CA 15-3 / CA 27.29 – for breast cancer
• Beta-hCG – for testicular & gestational trophoblastic tumors
• Thyroglobulin (Tg) – for thyroid cancer monitoring
• Chromogranin A (CgA) – for neuroendocrine tumors

Preparation for Cancer Marker Tests

• Generally, no fasting or special preparation is required
• Inform your doctor about any ongoing medications, supplements, or existing health conditions
• Some tests may require avoidance of certain foods, alcohol, or strenuous exercise before testing (as advised by doctor)
• Follow specific instructions provided for individual tumor marker tests

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are cancer markers?
Cancer markers are substances, often proteins, that are found in blood, urine, or tissues. Elevated levels may indicate the presence of cancer.

2. Can a cancer marker test alone diagnose cancer?
No, cancer marker tests cannot confirm cancer on their own. They are used along with imaging, biopsy, and other tests.

3. Who should get cancer marker tests?
People with a family history of cancer, those undergoing cancer treatment, or patients being monitored for recurrence may be advised to take these tests.

4. Do high cancer marker levels always mean cancer?
Not necessarily. Some markers can also be elevated in non-cancerous conditions like infections, inflammation, or liver disease.

5. How often should cancer marker tests be done?
Frequency depends on whether it’s for screening, monitoring treatment, or follow-up. Your doctor will decide the schedule.

6. Are there risks in the test?
No major risks. It’s a simple blood test with minimal discomfort.

7. Can these tests detect all types of cancer?
No, only certain cancers have identifiable markers. Other cancers may not show up in marker tests.

8. Why are multiple tests sometimes recommended together?
Because no single marker is specific for all cancers, combining tests improves diagnostic accuracy.

Prenatal Screening

Prenatal screening blood tests are essential during pregnancy to evaluate the health of both the mother and the developing baby. These tests help identify risks of chromosomal abnormalities (like Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome), genetic conditions, gestational diabetes, anemia, thyroid disorders, and infections. Early detection allows doctors to plan timely care and interventions for a safer pregnancy.

Uses of Prenatal Screening  Tests

• Detect risk of chromosomal disorders (Down syndrome, Trisomy 18, Trisomy 13)
• Screen for genetic abnormalities
• Identify maternal health conditions (diabetes, thyroid disease, anemia, Rh incompatibility)
• Monitor the baby’s growth and development
• Guide doctors in planning further diagnostic tests or treatments
• Provide parents with information for better pregnancy management

Types of Prenatal Blood Tests

• First Trimester Screening (Blood Test )
  • Measures hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) and PAPP-A (Pregnancy-Associated Plasma Protein A)
• Second Trimester Screening (Quadruple Test)
  • Measures AFP (Alpha-Fetoprotein), hCG, Estriol, and Inhibin-A
• Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT)
  • Analyzes fetal DNA from maternal blood for chromosomal abnormalities
• Blood Group & Rh Factor Test
• Hemoglobin & Anemia Screening
• Thyroid Function Tests (TFTs)
• Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT) for gestational diabetes

Preparation for Prenatal Blood Tests

• Most blood tests do not require special preparation
• For glucose tolerance test, fasting may be required (as per doctor’s instructions)
• Carry previous medical records, prescriptions, and ultrasound reports
• Stay hydrated and follow your doctor’s guidance
• Inform your doctor if you are on any medication or supplements

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the purpose of prenatal screening?
Prenatal screening helps detect possible genetic or chromosomal abnormalities and assesses maternal health risks during pregnancy.

2. Is prenatal screening mandatory?
No, it is optional but highly recommended for early risk detection and better pregnancy care.

3. When are these blood tests done?

• First trimester: 11–14 weeks
• Second trimester: 15–20 weeks
• NIPT can be done from the 10th week of pregnancy onwards.

4. What is NIPT and how is it different?
Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) is a highly accurate blood test that analyzes fetal DNA in the mother’s blood to detect chromosomal abnormalities.

5. Are there any risks in prenatal blood testing?
No, these are simple blood tests and pose no risk to mother or baby.

6. Will abnormal results confirm a problem?
Not always. Abnormal results indicate higher risk, and your doctor may recommend confirmatory tests like amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS).

7. Do I need to fast before these tests?
Only for certain tests like glucose tolerance test (GTT). Most prenatal blood tests do not require fasting.

8. Can these tests detect all birth defects?
No, they can identify common chromosomal and genetic risks but not all conditions.