Blood tests can be used to diagnose and observe a variety of urologic conditions. Often, blood work results can help doctors determine if further lab tests or treatments are necessary.
Blood testing is a routine procedure. A blood test involves using a needle to collect blood, usually from a vein in the arm. This blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Here are some common blood tests that health care providers use to help diagnose urologic conditions:
- Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) test: Used to evaluate kidney function, diagnose kidney problems, and monitor dialysis results.
- Creatinine test–A high level of creatinine in the blood may indicate kidney damage caused by kidney infection, kidney stones, or decreased blood flow to the kidneys.
- Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests: used in men to screen for prostate cancer and to monitor prostate cancer treatment. PSA is a protein produced by the prostate gland. The PSA test also may be used to diagnose benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH, enlarged prostate) and or prostate infection (prostatitis) in men.
- Calcium test: Measures the level of calcium in the blood and can be used to screen for kidney disease.
- Phosphate test: Measures for phosphate levels in the blood and used to diagnose kidney problems and monitor dialysis.
- Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP): Helps to diagnose testicular cancer.
Premier Medical Group Urology Division does not provide blood tests. Click here to find a list of labs convenient to Poughkeepsie, Fishkill, Kingston, Newburgh and Rhinebeck.