Clinical Laboratory (Microbiology, Biochemistry)
A clinical laboratory is a unit where various medical tests are performed for the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of diseases. Microbiology and biochemistry departments are the most important components of the clinical laboratory. The microbiology laboratory plays a critical role in the diagnosis of infectious diseases.
In this laboratory, samples such as blood, urine, sputum, tissue and other body fluids are examined. Culture, microscopy, antigen and antibody tests are performed to detect the presence of bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. The biochemistry laboratory measures chemical substances in body fluids. Parameters such as blood sugar, cholesterol, electrolytes, liver and kidney function tests, hormone levels are analyzed in this laboratory. Both microbiology and biochemistry laboratories are vital for early diagnosis of diseases, determining treatment plans and monitoring the treatment process.
Things to Know After Clinical Laboratory Tests
After clinical laboratory tests, patients usually do not require any special care. However, it may be necessary to follow certain instructions before some tests. For example, you may need to fast for some biochemistry tests, such as blood glucose or lipid profiles. For microbiology tests, it is important to be careful about how a particular sample is collected and how it is transported to the laboratory. Test results are usually available within a few days and your doctor will make a diagnosis and treatment plan based on these results. It is important to discuss the test results with your doctor to understand and interpret them. Especially with microbiological tests, you should follow your doctor’s recommendations carefully to learn about the type of infection and its response to treatment. Biochemistry test results indicate the state of chemical balance and organ function in your body, so it is important to make the necessary lifestyle changes and follow treatment plans in accordance with your doctor’s recommendations. Clinical laboratory tests are indispensable for early diagnosis of diseases and effective treatment management.