What is Alpha Feto protein (AFP)? Alpha Feto protein (AFP) is produced in the liver of a developing baby and protects it against the maternal immune system. Abnormal levels of embryonic AFP in the mother's serum can be indicative of birth defects like spina bifida or genetic abnormalities like Down's syndrome in the baby. Thyrocare offers this test...

What is Complement 3 ? The complement system is an important part of the immune system. There are certain plasma proteins involved in the complement system, which destroy the microbes. C3 protein is the critical and most abundant protein in the complement system that helps in killing bacteria and viruses that cause disease. Complement 3 test measures the...

What is Thalassemia ? Thalassemia is a red blood cell disorder affecting the amount and type of hemoglobin the body produces. Children can inherit this disorder from their parents. It occurs due to the absence of mutation in the chain of the hemoglobin genes. Based on the type of globin gene affected, thalassemias are classified as alpha and...

What is 17-hydroxyprogesterone? The steroid hormone, 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) is produced as a part of the process of synthesizing the cortisol hormone. This 17-OHP test measures the levels of 17-hydroxyprogesterone in the blood to detect Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH), an inherited condition that causes decreased adrenal cortisol and aldosterone, and increased male sex hormone (androgen) production. As a part...

What is Cortisol ? Cortisol is a glucocorticoid hormone, produced and secreted by adrenal glands using cholesterol as a precursor. The secretion of Cortisol is controlled by the pituitary gland and levels are often measured to evaluate the pituitary function and/or adrenal function. Abnormalities of Cortisol secretion can result in diseases either in the pituitary gland or the...

What is Blood elements analysis profile ? Blood elements analysis profile measures the levels of elements in the blood thereby aiding in detecting deficiency or toxicity of elements. Analysis of toxic elements like arsenic, mercury, lead, cadmium, etc., are crucial to monitoring health and well-being. Today’s pollution-rich environment can change the levels of these elements and can potentially harm the...

What is D-dimers? D-dimers are small fragments of proteins detected in the blood after breaking down a blood clot. D-dimer test is used in diagnosing blood clots deep inside the veins, to check for blockage in the arteries and lungs, which can affect the blood flow to various organs and tissues as well as increase the chances of...

What is Alpha-1-antitrypsin? Alpha-1-antitrypsin (AAT) is a protein produced by the liver that protects our lungs from damage caused by Neutrophil elastase. In case of abnormal Alpha-1-antitrypsin (AAT) or non-functional AAT, neutrophil elastase destroys alveoli in the lungs, resulting in lung disease. The alpha-1-antitrypsin test determines the level of alpha-1-antitrypsin in blood. This test is recommended by a physician...

With an increasing prevalence of a sedentary lifestyle, it’s become more essential than ever to monitor your heart health. As you go through life, when fulfilling small never-ending demands, it’s easy to forget the big things – like having regular health checks – especially, when you’re feeling well and sometimes even when you’re not. Ask Lata. Living in a remote village...

What is Amylase? Amylase catalyzes the breakdown of complex starch. Most of the serum amylases are mainly derived from the pancreas and pituitary gland. The measurement of alpha-Amylase is important for the diagnosis of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) as well as other pancreatic and intestinal diseases. Technique PHOTOMETRY