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Precision Labs

Lab Test Guide

What common blood and molecular tests measure, how to prepare, and where to learn more.

A plain-language guide to the lab tests providers order most often, what each one measures, and where to learn more. Your healthcare provider decides which tests are right for you.

This guide is for general education and isn’t medical advice. Questions about your own results should go to the provider who ordered the test.

Blood tests

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

Counts red cells, white cells and platelets, and measures hemoglobin and red cell indices such as MCV. Used to look for anemia, infection and many blood disorders.

CBC with differential · What a CBC detects · MCV explained

Metabolic Panels (BMP & CMP)

Measure glucose, electrolytes and kidney function. The comprehensive panel adds liver function and protein levels.

What a CMP reveals · CMP explained

Lipid Panel

Measures total cholesterol, LDL, HDL and triglycerides to help assess cardiovascular risk.

Lipid panel testing · Understanding cholesterol results

Thyroid Panel

Measures thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and often thyroid hormones to evaluate an under- or overactive thyroid.

Thyroid function test · Warning signs of thyroid problems

Liver & Enzyme Tests

Enzymes such as ALT, AST and alkaline phosphatase help show how the liver and other organs are functioning.

Liver blood test · Blood enzyme tests

Iron Panel & Vitamin B12

Iron studies and B12 levels help find the cause of anemia, fatigue and some nerve symptoms.

Iron panel · Vitamin B12 levels

Coagulation Panel

Measures how well blood clots. Often used before procedures and to monitor anticoagulant therapy.

Hemostasis profiling

Blood Type & Allergy Tests

Blood typing identifies ABO group and Rh factor. Allergy blood tests measure IgE antibodies to specific allergens.

Blood type test · Allergy blood tests

Molecular (PCR) tests

Urine PCR (UTI) Testing

Detects UTI pathogens directly from a urine sample, with antibiotic resistance guidance.

Our UTI PCR testing · Urine PCR explained

Respiratory Pathogen Panel

Tests one swab for COVID-19, influenza A/B, RSV and other respiratory viruses at once.

Our respiratory panel · Respiratory panel guide

What is molecular testing?

Molecular tests find the genetic material of pathogens, which is often faster and more specific than a culture.

Molecular testing basics · 7 ways it improves care

Preparing for a blood test

Some tests, such as fasting glucose and some lipid panels, require you to avoid food and drinks other than water beforehand. Follow the instructions from the provider who ordered your test.

Can I order a lab test directly from Precision Labs?

Tests are ordered by a healthcare provider. Facilities and practices can order through our online requisition form, fax, EMR or secure email. If you’re a patient, ask your provider about using Precision Labs.

How will I get my results?

Results go to the provider who ordered the test, by fax and through our online portal. Your provider will review them with you.

Need Precision Labs testing?

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