Laboratory Tests

A blood test is a medical analysis that assesses the components of a person’s blood. It is essential because it provides crucial information about general health by detecting abnormalities, diagnosing problems, and monitoring the effectiveness of treatments.

This test helps detect conditions such as anemia, infections, hormonal imbalances, and heart problems, allowing for early intervention to maintain and improve health.

Blood tests are ordered to refine the diagnosis of certain diseases, and begin with a blood test. Blood tests are prescribed to refine the diagnosis of certain diseases and start with a blood draw.

What is a blood draw?

A blood draw is a blood sample taken from a vein, usually from the inside of the elbow, using a needle. It allows blood analysis to diagnose certain diseases.

This test is not very painful. However, the skin may be slightly sensitive when the needle is inserted therein.

Other types of medical tests

CBEU

The Cytobacteriological Examination of Urine (CBEU) screens a sample of urine for germs. Its interpretation is easy since urine is normally sterile, but it is important to meet certain sampling conditions to avoid unreliable results.
In which case are you asked for a CBEU?

In which case are you asked for a CBEU?

• Suspicion of urinary tract infection

In the presence of urinary symptoms suggesting a urinary tract infection (burning during urination, frequent urge to urinate), the attending physician performs the urine strip test which looks for the presence of leukocytes (white blood cells) and nitrites produced during a urinary tract infection.

If the test is positive, the physician prescribes a cytobacteriological examination of the urine (CBEU), to be carried out in a laboratory. The results will allow him to adapt the treatment in case of a urinary tract infection, such as acute cystitis or acute pyelonephritis.

• Presence of blood in the urine

Having blood in the urine requires investigating the causes of this hematuria. The attending doctor first requests a urine culture which confirms the hematuria and looks for a urinary infection which is the primary cause of hematuria.

What does a CBEU check for?

CBEU (Cytobacteriological examination of urine) allows the analysis of a urine sample as follows:

• Cytology: Study of the different types of cells found in the urine (red blood cells or erythrocytes, white blood cells or leukocytes, and possibly epithelial cells covering the surface of the bladder).

• Bacteriology: Search, identification, and count of bacteria that may be present in urine culture. If a germ is identified, a sensitivity test to various antibiotics (antibiogram) is conducted. This helps the attending physician prescribe the appropriate antibiotics.

What is a urinary tract infection?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is caused by bacteria that affect the urinary tract, leading to an inflammatory response and signs and symptoms of varying nature and intensity depending on the person.

According to the site of infection, it can refer to:

Cystitis: Infection that affects the bladder.

Urethritis: Infection of the urethra.

Pyelonephritis: Infection that affects the kidneys.

Prostatitis: Infection of the prostate.

Various germs are responsible for urinary tract infections. The following are the most common:

Escherichia coli

Proteus mirabilis

Enterococcus, Staphylococcus, etc.

How to prepare for a blood test

When you make an appointment at a medical analysis laboratory, ask your contact whether you need to fast before the blood draw.

If fasting is required, remember to:

• Avoid consuming any food or sugary drinks (except water) for 12 hours before the blood draw.

• Refrain from smoking and engaging in intense physical activity right before your appointment.

Many medications can affect the results of certain tests. Therefore, make sure to mention all medications you are taking (whether prescribed or not) to:

• The attending physician who ordered the test.

• The medical technician or nurse performing the test.

Additionally, if you are unable to go to the laboratory due to medical reasons, you can request a home sample collection.

What is the blood collection process?

On the day of your appointment at the laboratory, bring your prescription and any necessary documents (such as your Chiffa card, if applicable).

Blood collection takes place in several steps:

1. The laboratory receptionist will check your identity, your prescription, and ensure that you are fasting, if required.

2. You will be taken to a booth or small room, where you will be seated in a phlebotomy chair.

3. The phlebotomy technician prepares the tube(s) they will use to collect your blood (usually several are needed).

4. A tourniquet (tight band above your elbow) is applied, temporarily blocking blood flow to make the collection easier.

5. The blood draw is done through a vein, often on the inside of your elbow, using a single-use needle. The various tubes are successively placed on the needle, which remains in the vein during the collection process.

6. The phlebotomy technician removes the tourniquet and then the needle.

7. They apply a compressive bandage to prevent hematomas. You will need to press on the bandage yourself for one to two minutes (or longer if you have clotting issues).

8. The technician labels the tubes with your name and informs you of the turnaround time for your results.

9. The medical biologist validates and interprets the results.

10. The results are either given directly to the patient or sent to the attending physician.
    

Types of Blood Tests

There are several types of blood tests, each providing specific information about a person’s health.