Immunoglobulin A (IgA) is a crucial antibody in the immune system, predominantly found in mucous membranes of the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts. It helps protect against infections by neutralizing pathogens before they can cause harm. Testing IgA levels can provide insights into immune health, indicating potential issues such as chronic infections, autoimmune diseases, or immunodeficiency disorders. Elevated or decreased IgA levels can signal various health conditions, making this test valuable for diagnosing and managing immune-related issues. For those experiencing frequent infections or gastrointestinal issues, an IgA test can be an essential diagnostic tool.

Protein, Gloublin and Albumin - The major proteins seen in the serum are albumin and globulin-the latter being primarily alpha 1 and alpha 2 globulin, beta globulin and gamma globulin. Albumin accounts for more than 50% of the total serum proteins. The albumin to globulin (A/G) ratio has been used as an index of disease state, however, it is not a specific marker for disease because it does not indicate which specific proteins are altered. The normal A/G ratio is 0.8-2.0. The A/G ratio can be decreased in response to a low albumin or to elevated globulins. Total globulins may be increased in some chronic inflammatory diseases (TB, syphilis) multiple myeloma, collagen disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.  Decreased levels are seen in hepatic dysfunction, renal disease and various neoplasms.

This test measures thyroglobulin antibodies commonly present in patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Antibodies against the protein thyroglobulin can result in the destruction of thyroid cells. This destruction can lead to hypothyroidism. NOTE: Dietary supplements containing biotin may interfere in assays and may skew results to be either falsely high or falsely low. For patients receiving the recommended daily doses of biotin, draw samples at least 8 hours following the last biotin supplementation. For patients on mega doses of biotin supplements, draw samples at least 72 hours following the last biotin supplementation.

Blood typing is used to determine an individual's blood group, to establish whether a person is blood group A, B, AB, or O and whether he or she is Rh positive or Rh negative.