Lab Tests
Lab Tests
Lab tests for children are an essential tool in diagnosing and monitoring various health conditions. These tests often involve analyzing samples of blood, urine, or other body fluids to provide valuable insights into a child’s health. Common lab tests for children include complete blood counts (CBC), which can help identify conditions like anemia or infections, urinalysis to detect urinary tract infections or kidney issues, and blood chemistry panels to assess organ function. Stool cultures are used to diagnose gastrointestinal infections, while throat cultures are common for detecting strep throat. Allergy testing and genetic testing are also performed in children to diagnose allergies or genetic disorders, respectively. These tests, along with imaging studies like X-rays and ultrasounds, play a crucial role in providing accurate diagnoses and guiding treatment decisions for children’s health concerns.
Lab tests provide your pediatrician with detailed information about your child’s health. If your child is showing symptoms of an illness or disease, your doctor may recommend a lab test to determine the underlying cause. Your doctor may also recommend routine blood tests during your child’s annual visit to ensure there are no problems or changes to their health.
Lab tests are an important diagnostic tool that allow your doctor to identify conditions that they can’t determine through a physical exam. Your doctor may conduct lab tests to diagnose conditions like infections, anemia, or nutrient deficiencies.
There are a wide range of tests your doctor may use to evaluate your child’s health. Two of the most common lab tests include:
Blood tests
A blood test is a diagnostic tool that uses a small sample of your child’s blood. Your doctor may conduct a blood test to check your child’s cholesterol, hemoglobin, or lead levels. A blood test can help your doctor determine how well your child’s organs are functioning, as well as the presence of conditions like diabetes or blood disorders.
Urine tests
A urine test or urinalysis is another diagnostic that uses a sample of your child’s urine. Your doctor may recommend a urine test if your child is suffering from symptoms like painful urination or abdominal pain. Pediatricians commonly diagnose urinary tract infections through urine tests. Urine tests can also screen for diabetes and issues with your child’s liver or kidneys.
Pediatric Associates, Inc. also provides lab tests for conditions like the flu or strep throat. Depending on your child’s issue, your doctor may perform a blood test or rapid testing using a swab of your child’s throat or nasal passage.
The results from your child’s lab test can take a few days to come in. Pediatric Associates, Inc. is conveniently located next door to a laboratory testing facility, ensuring that the team conducts your child’s tests in a timely and efficient manner. Once your child’s results come in, you and your pediatrician discuss any issues with your child’s health, as well as options for safe and effective treatment.
