Panels

A general check of blood, sugar, kidneys, cholesterol and urine in one visit. Useful as a yearly checkup or before surgery. Preparation: 8 hours of fasting and first morning urine.

Measures glucose, urea, creatinine and uric acid to check your blood sugar and kidney function. Preparation: 8 hours of fasting.

Adds cholesterol and triglycerides to the 4-panel chemistry to also check blood fats. Preparation: 8 hours of fasting.

Measures total cholesterol, “good” (HDL) and “bad” (LDL) cholesterol and triglycerides to assess heart risk. Preparation: 10 to 12 hours of fasting; avoid alcohol and fatty meals the day before.

Combines the 4-panel chemistry and the lipid panel in one draw. Preparation: 10 to 12 hours of fasting.

A group of tests that shows how your liver is working and whether there is inflammation or damage. Preparation: 8 hours of fasting.

Measures thyroid hormones (TSH, T3 and T4) to see whether the gland is overactive or underactive. Preparation: no fasting; if you take thyroid medication, take it after the sample.

An extended version of the thyroid panel, with more markers for a more complete thyroid workup. Preparation: no fasting; if you take thyroid medication, take it after the sample.

A group of tests that helps detect inflammation and rheumatic diseases, such as rheumatoid factor, ASO, C-reactive protein and sedimentation rate. Preparation: no fasting.

Measures sodium, potassium and chloride, minerals that keep fluids, nerves and muscles in balance. Preparation: no fasting.

Adds calcium, phosphorus and magnesium to the 3-electrolyte panel. Preparation: preferably 8 hours of fasting.

Blood type and Rh plus VDRL, the tests required in Mexico for a civil marriage. Preparation: no fasting.