Heart Test Panel- Comprehensive

Heart Test Panel: A Comprehensive Analysis of Cardiovascular Risks

Our Heart Test Panel at DiscountedLabs.com offers an extensive series of blood tests essential for assessing cardiovascular risks. This in-depth examination covers critical factors related to heart health and overall well-being. Here's a detailed breakdown of the various tests included in this panel:

1. Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)

• Overview: The CMP consists of 14 blood tests serving as an initial medical screening tool to review overall health.
• Components: The CMP checks kidney function, liver function, electrolyte and fluid balance.
• Special Note: Specific electrolytes like potassium play a crucial role in heart health.
• Fasting Required: You should fast for 12 hours before collection of the specimen. Fasting is defined as no consumption of food or beverage other than water for at least 12 hours before testing.

2. Complete Blood Count (CBC) with Differential

• Overview: CBC measures various components of blood, including:
  • Red blood cells (carry oxygen)
  • White blood cells (fight infection)
  • Hemoglobin (oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells)
  • Hematocrit (proportion of red blood cells to fluid component)
  • Platelets (assist with blood clotting)
• Significance: Hematocrit's correlation with blood thickness can be essential for cardiovascular assessments.

3. High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP)

• Overview: hs-CRP level above 2 mg/L, coupled with other risk factors, requires retesting to rule out acute inflammatory responses. A level >10 mg/L might indicate high cardiovascular risk.
• Importance: Helps in reclassifying cardiovascular risk, suggesting possible treatments, including lifestyle changes.

4. Cardio IQ® Advanced Lipid Panel

• Overview: This report provides a thorough assessment of cardiovascular risks, helping physicians tailor the best individualized treatment.
• Components: Includes Total Cholesterol, Triglycerides, HDL, LDL, Cholesterol/HDL ratio, LDL Particle Number, LDL Peak Size, LDL Pattern, HDL Large, LDL Small, LDL Medium, Apolipoprotein B, Lipoprotein (a).
• Visual Representation: The report is color-coded with "optimal," "moderate," and "high-risk" categories, offering a comprehensive yet simple understanding.
• Fasting Required: You should fast for 12 hours before collection of the specimen. Fasting is defined as no consumption of food or beverage other than water for at least 12 hours before testing.
• Important Note: According to Beckman Coulter, the NAC interference should be insignificant by 12 hours after completion of the initial loading dose of an IV infusion treatment regimen consisting of an initial loading dose of 150 mg/kg administered over 1 hour, a second dose of 50 mg/kg administered over 4 hrs and a third dose of 100 mg/kg administered over 16 hrs. The assay manufacturer Beckman Coulter advises: "N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC), when administered in therapeutic concentrations (for the treatment of acetaminophen overdose), has been determined to interfere with assays for cholesterol, uric acid" where "NAC interference may lead to falsely low results.
• Results Time: Approximately 2 weeks.

5. Homocysteine

• Overview: Measures a chemical produced when the amino acid methionine breaks down.
• Importance: Elevated homocysteine levels indicate increased risks for arterial hardening, heart attack, stroke, and venous thrombosis.

6. D-Dimer

• Overview: D-Dimer measures fibrinolytic activation and intravascular thrombosis, a crucial indicator in the blood.
• Significance: Particularly valuable for ruling out venous thromboembolism in high-risk individuals.

Conclusion

The Heart Test Panel is a robust set of diagnostics targeting a comprehensive understanding of cardiovascular health. By offering insights into areas such as metabolism, blood components, inflammation markers, lipid profile, amino acid breakdown, and blood clot factors, this panel empowers both physicians and patients to make informed decisions about heart care and disease prevention.

At DiscountedLabs.com, we prioritize accuracy and accessibility in cardiovascular testing. Entrust your heart health to our advanced screening methods and detailed reports. Book your Heart Test Panel today to embark on a journey toward optimal cardiovascular well-being.