Published: 11 Jun 2024

Understanding Laboratory Test Results

Importance of Professional Interpretation:

While it's important to understand the purpose of each test, interpreting the results requires more information than we can provide online. Your healthcare provider can interpret your results based on your medical history and current symptoms, which is not yet possible through a website.

Decision Limits vs. Reference Ranges:

For specific tests, established decision limits provide more useful information than reference ranges. These values indicate the presence of a disease state or trigger the need for treatment. For instance, a fasting glucose level of 126 mg/dL (7.0 mmol/L) or above may indicate diabetes.

Reference Ranges:

Reference ranges represent the usual variations of a measurement in healthy individuals. However, they are only a guide for your healthcare provider. Optimal levels, which are associated with better health outcomes, may differ from reference ranges. Your healthcare provider will determine how your results relate to both standard and optimal ranges.

Definitions:

* Reference range: The range of values found in 95% of the population.
* Optimal (health) range or therapeutic target: Values associated with optimal health or minimal risk of complications.
* Standard range: Similar to reference range but focuses on the most prevalent values in a reference group.

Limitations of Online Interpretation:

Please note that our website provides information about tests, but we cannot provide medical advice or interpret your results. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance based on your specific situation.