Similar to CSI detectives, doctors need to collect evidence to get to the root of a medical problem or rule out certain illnesses. Laboratory tests provide that evidence, analyzing blood, body fluids or tissue samples to find irregularities in cells or chemical components in your body.

Also, certain diseases may require ongoing monitoring to find out how well your treatment is working or to help your doctor determine future treatments. Even if you’re feeling healthy, your doctor may order certain tests as a way to establish a baseline normal for you. Future tests will be compared to this baseline, helping your doctor flag any changes that may require closer attention. Remember, abnormal results can show up even when you’re feeling fine. That’s why doctors often order tests as part of your regular physical exam. Lab tests reveal information your doctor cannot discover using his or her senses.

Laboratories at SPMF stay on top of emerging technology that can help patients identify disease earlier and more accurately. Our labs perform thousands of tests each year, which means our lab technicians and pathologists have extensive experience. SPMF labs are licensed by the State of California's Department of Health Services.