Medical dictionary

What is a blood clot? A blood clot helps to repair injured blood vessels. However, when blood becomes semi-solid, the flow of blood within the circulation system can be obstructed. If not treated quickly, a blood clot can travel to an organ and stop blood flow and oxygen, resulting in a life-threatening conditions. There are two types of blood clot:   Arterial clot: These form in

What is being analysed? Blood count extension refers to the examination of the different components present in the blood, including red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets. This analysis provides valuable insights into the overall health of an individual's circulatory system. What does the result mean? The results of a blood count extension indicate the qu

What is analysed? A blood culture is performed to detect the presence of microorganisms such as bacteria, yeast (a type of fungus), or viruses in the blood, that may be causing bloodstream infections. Normally, infections originate from a specific site within the body. If the immune defences and white blood cells fail to contain the infection at its source, the microorganisms responsible for

What are blood disorders?   Blood disorders, or haematological conditions, are conditions that affect the components of blood, that is, red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets and blood plasma. These conditions can be classified according to which component they affect and based on what causes them.   A blood disorder affecting the red blood cells may cause an increa

What is being analysed? Blood gas analysis involves measuring the levels of oxygen (O2), carbon dioxide (CO2), and pH in the blood, as well as other parameters such as bicarbonate (HCO3-) and oxygen saturation (SaO2). What does the result mean? The results of blood gas analysis provide insights into the respiratory and metabolic status of an individual. It indicates how well the lungs

What is blood in the semen?   Blood in the semen is also known as haemastospermia. Normally, the amount of blood that appears is small and therefore it is not always noticeable. It is most apparent in ejaculation. Usually, the condition is benign and resolves by itself.     What are the symptoms of haemastospermia?   The symptoms related

What is analysed in a blood ketones analysis? The blood ketones analysis aims to detect the presence and concentration of ketone bodies, which are byproducts of fat metabolism. These ketone bodies include acetone, acetoacetate, and beta-hydroxybutyrate. What does the result mean? The result of the blood ketones analysis indicates the concentration of ketone bodies present. A normal re

What is a blood pressure test? A blood pressure test is performed to measure your blood pressure over a prolonged period of time, usually 24 hours. The aim is to monitor your blood pressure and to identify at what times, or during which activities, sudden changes in blood pressure occur. What does a blood pressure test involve? A blood pressure monitoring test involves wearing a blood

Why are blood tests performed? Blood tests are extremely common and are performed for a variety of reasons. They can be used for general health assessments, checking for infections, evaluating organ functionality and screening for genetic conditions.  How to prepare for a blood test Before your test, you will be given specific instructions to follow to help you prepare for your