Meaningful Interpretation of Laboratory Test Results

If something feels amiss, it's worth repeating the test. Your intuition may help identify findings that medical professionals overlook.

Understanding laboratory test reference ranges can be helpful. These ranges vary based on factors like age, weight, and gender. Here's a general reference:

Reference Ranges

Reference ranges represent the values that 95% of the healthy population falls within. They provide a starting point for interpreting test results. However, it's important to note that optimal levels may differ from these reference ranges, especially for vitamins and blood lipids.

For many substances, optimal levels represent the concentrations typically found in healthy individuals. These levels serve as a basis for healthcare professionals to interpret results for specific patients.

Optimal Health Ranges

In contrast to reference ranges, optimal health ranges represent concentrations or levels associated with optimal health or reduced risk of complications. While these ranges are based on population data, they may vary depending on individual health factors.

Reference Intervals

Reference intervals describe the range of values found in healthy individuals. They represent the 95% prediction interval, meaning that 95% of the population falls within these limits.

Additional Information

* Optimal health ranges are typically narrower than reference ranges.
* Reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory performing the test.
* It's important to consult with a healthcare professional to interpret test results and determine the best course of action.