Similar to CSI detectives, doctors collect evidence to get to the root of a medical problem or to rule out certain illnesses. Laboratory and pathology 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 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.
Pathology tests take the process a step further by examining tissue, cell or fluid samples under a microscope and using the latest molecular technology. At Sutter Roseville Medical Center, specially trained staff offer a broad spectrum of pathology expertise, including neurological, skin, gastrointestinal and breast pathologies. A pathology consultation, including information on the likely course a disease will take (prognosis), can help your surgeon decide on the best treatment.
At Sutter Roseville, we offer:
- Medical chemistry
- Hematology (the study of blood)
- Urinalysis
- Transfusion services
- Microbiology (the study of microscopic organisms)
- Coagulation (blood clotting) services
