Medical Tests & Examinations Page 1

Topics about Medical Tests & Examinations

ALLERGY TESTS
Allergy tests indicate a person's allergic sensitivity to commonly encountered environmental substances.

ALPHA-FETOPROTEIN TEST
The alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) test is a blood test that is performed during pregnancy. This screening test measures the level of AFP in the mother's blood and indicates the probability that the fetus has one of several serious birth defects. The level of AFP can also be determined by analyzing a sample of amniotic fluid. This screening test cannot diagnose a specific condition; it only indicates the increase of risk for several birth defects. Outside pregnancy, the AFP test is used to detect liver disease, certain cancerous tumors, and to monitor the progress of cancer treatment.

AMINO ACID DISORDERS SCREENING
Amino acid disorder screening checks for inherited disorders in amino acid metabolism. Tests are most commonly done on newborns. Two tests are available, one using a blood sample and the other a urine sample.

AMSLER GRID EYE TEST
The Amsler grid is a chart that can reveal signs of wet macular degeneration (MD). The grid is a tool for monitoring the center of your visual field, by detecting disturbances caused by changes in your retina.

AMYLASE TESTS
Amylase is a digestive enzyme made primarily by the pancreas and salivary glands. Enzymes are substances made and used by the body to trigger specific chemical reactions. The primary function of the enzyme amylase is to break down starches in food so that they can be used by the body. Amylase testing is usually done to determine the cause of sudden abdominal pain.

AMYLOIDOSIS
Amyloidosis is a progressive, incurable, metabolic disease characterized by abnormal deposits of protein in one or more organs or body systems.

ANGIOGRAPHY
Angiography is the x-ray study of the blood vessels. An angiogram uses a radiopaque substance, or dye, to make the blood vessels visible under x ray. Arteriography is a type of angiography that involves the study of the arteries.

ANGIOTENSIN-CONVERTING ENZYME INHIBITORS
Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (also called ACE inhibitors) are medicines that block the conversion of the chemical angiotensin I to a substance that increases salt and water retention in the body.

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