Laboratory [L] Tests
SERVICES AND TREATMENTS
- Lactoferrin: Lactoferrin is a glycoprotein with antimicrobial properties found in various bodily fluids, including milk, tears, and saliva. It plays a role in innate immunity by binding to iron and inhibiting bacterial growth. Elevated levels of lactoferrin in stool samples may indicate inflammation or infection in the gastrointestinal tract, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or infectious diarrhea. Lactoferrin testing helps diagnose and monitor these conditions.
- Lactate Dehydrogenase Isoenzyme Electrophoresis (LDH Isoenzymes): Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is an enzyme involved in cellular energy metabolism, converting lactate to pyruvate in the presence of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+). LDH exists in several isoforms, each predominantly found in specific tissues. LDH isoenzyme electrophoresis separates and quantifies these isoforms, aiding in the diagnosis and differential diagnosis of various diseases, including myocardial infarction, liver disease, and hemolysis.
- Lactic Acid (Lactate): Lactic acid, or lactate, is a byproduct of anaerobic metabolism occurring in tissues when oxygen supply is inadequate, such as during intense physical exercise or in conditions like shock or ischemia. Lactic acid levels in blood or serum are measured to assess tissue perfusion, oxygenation, and metabolic status. Elevated lactate levels may indicate tissue hypoxia, metabolic acidosis, or impaired lactate clearance, providing valuable information for diagnosing and managing critically ill patients.
- Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH): Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is an enzyme found in nearly all body tissues, playing a key role in anaerobic metabolism by converting pyruvate to lactate and vice versa. LDH is released into the bloodstream when cells are damaged or destroyed, making it a nonspecific marker of tissue injury or disease. Elevated LDH levels in blood are associated with various conditions, including myocardial infarction, liver disease, hemolysis, and cancer. LDH testing aids in diagnosing and monitoring these conditions.
- Lambda Light Chain: Lambda light chains are one of the two types of light chains produced by plasma cells during immunoglobulin synthesis. Abnormal levels of lambda light chains in blood or urine may indicate plasma cell disorders such as multiple myeloma, monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), or light chain amyloidosis. Testing for lambda light chains, along with kappa light chains, helps diagnose and monitor these conditions.
- Lamotrigine: Lamotrigine is an anticonvulsant medication used to treat epilepsy and bipolar disorder. It works by stabilizing neuronal membranes and inhibiting the release of excitatory neurotransmitters. Lamotrigine levels in blood may be monitored to optimize dosing, ensure therapeutic efficacy, and prevent adverse effects such as seizures or mood swings.
- (Latent Tüberküloz Tanısı İçin Quantiferon-TB Gold testi) Quantiferon-TB Gold Test for Latent Tuberculosis Diagnosis (QFT): The Quantiferon-TB Gold test (QFT) is a blood test used to detect latent tuberculosis (TB) infection by measuring the immune response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis antigens. QFT is based on interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA) technology and offers advantages over the tuberculin skin test (TST) in terms of specificity and sensitivity. QFT helps identify individuals at risk of developing active TB disease, allowing for timely treatment and TB control efforts.
- (Low-Density Lipoprotein) Direct Measurement of LDL : Direct measurement of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol provides an accurate assessment of LDL levels in the blood without the need for calculation, as with traditional methods like the Friedewald equation. This method directly quantifies LDL cholesterol concentration, which is a key indicator of cardiovascular risk. Elevated LDL cholesterol levels are associated with atherosclerosis and increased risk of coronary artery disease, making LDL measurement crucial for cardiovascular risk assessment and management.
- LDL Cholesterol: LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol because it transports cholesterol from the liver to tissues, contributing to the formation of atherosclerotic plaques in arteries. Elevated LDL cholesterol levels are a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, including coronary artery disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. Measuring LDL cholesterol helps assess cardiovascular risk and guide treatment strategies aimed at lowering LDL levels through lifestyle modifications and/or medication.
- Lymphocyte Subset Analysis: Lymphocyte subset analysis evaluates the distribution and proportions of different types of lymphocytes (e.g., T cells, B cells, natural killer cells) in the blood. This test provides valuable information about the immune system’s function and helps diagnose various immune disorders, such as immunodeficiencies, autoimmune diseases, and lymphoid malignancies. Lymphocyte subset analysis is performed using flow cytometry, enabling the precise characterization of immune cell populations based on specific cell surface markers.
- Leptin: Leptin is a hormone primarily produced by adipose tissue (fat cells) that plays a key role in regulating appetite, energy balance, and body weight. Leptin acts on the hypothalamus to suppress appetite and increase energy expenditure, thereby helping maintain body weight within a narrow range. Abnormal leptin levels are associated with obesity, metabolic syndrome, and various metabolic disorders. Measuring leptin levels may help assess adipose tissue mass, metabolic health, and leptin resistance.
- Levetiracetam: Levetiracetam is an antiepileptic medication used to treat seizures in patients with epilepsy. It works by modulating synaptic neurotransmission and inhibiting neuronal excitability, thereby reducing the incidence and severity of seizures. Levetiracetam is effective as monotherapy or adjunctive therapy in various types of seizures, including focal-onset seizures and generalized tonic-clonic seizures. Monitoring levetiracetam levels in blood may be necessary to optimize dosing and minimize adverse effects.
- Limbic Encephalitis Panel: Limbic encephalitis is a rare neurological condition characterized by inflammation of the limbic system, leading to cognitive dysfunction, memory impairment, seizures, and psychiatric symptoms. The limbic encephalitis panel comprises various tests, including autoimmune antibody testing (e.g., anti-Hu, anti-Ma2, anti-VGKC) and infectious disease serology (e.g., herpes simplex virus, varicella-zoster virus), to identify the underlying cause of limbic encephalitis. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent complications and improve patient outcomes.
- Lipase: Lipase is an enzyme produced mainly by the pancreas that aids in the digestion of fats in the small intestine. It breaks down triglycerides into fatty acids and glycerol, which can then be absorbed by the body. Elevated levels of lipase in the blood may indicate pancreatic injury or disease, such as pancreatitis. Lipase levels are commonly measured in the diagnosis and management of pancreatic disorders.
- Lipid: Lipids are a diverse group of organic molecules that include fats, oils, phospholipids, and steroids. They serve various functions in the body, including energy storage, insulation, and cell membrane structure. Lipids are transported in the blood as lipoproteins, which consist of cholesterol, triglycerides, and proteins. Abnormal lipid levels, such as high cholesterol or triglycerides, are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
- Lipoprotein A [Lp(a)]: Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is a type of lipoprotein similar to LDL cholesterol but with an additional protein called apolipoprotein(a). Elevated levels of Lp(a) in the blood are considered a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, particularly coronary artery disease and atherosclerosis. Lp(a) may contribute to the formation of atherosclerotic plaques in blood vessels and increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. Measuring Lp(a) levels can help assess cardiovascular risk and guide treatment decisions.
- Lipoprotein-Associated Phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) (PLAC Test): Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) is an enzyme associated with inflammation and atherosclerosis. It is primarily found in LDL cholesterol particles and plays a role in the development of atherosclerotic plaques. The PLAC test measures Lp-PLA2 activity or mass in the blood and is used as a marker of cardiovascular risk. Elevated Lp-PLA2 levels may indicate increased inflammation and a higher risk of cardiovascular events.
- Listeria Monocytogenes: Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause a serious foodborne infection called listeriosis. It is commonly found in soil, water, and certain foods, including unpasteurized dairy products, deli meats, and soft cheeses. Listeriosis can lead to symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, nausea, diarrhea, and, in severe cases, meningitis or septicemia. Diagnosis is typically made by culturing the bacteria from clinical specimens, such as blood or cerebrospinal fluid.
- Lithium: Lithium is a medication commonly used to treat bipolar disorder (manic-depressive illness) and certain other psychiatric conditions. It helps stabilize mood by modulating neurotransmitter activity in the brain. Lithium levels in the blood must be carefully monitored because too much lithium can lead to toxicity, causing symptoms such as tremors, confusion, nausea, and even seizures. Therapeutic drug monitoring of lithium levels ensures optimal dosing and minimizes the risk of adverse effects.
- Lysozyme: Lysozyme is an enzyme found in various bodily fluids, including tears, saliva, mucus, and human milk. It plays a role in the body’s defense against bacterial infections by breaking down bacterial cell walls. Lysozyme’s antibacterial properties help protect mucous membranes from microbial colonization and infection.
- Leukocyte (White Blood Cell): Leukocytes, commonly known as white blood cells (WBCs), are a vital component of the immune system responsible for defending the body against infectious agents, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi, as well as foreign substances and cancer cells. There are several types of leukocytes, including neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils, each with specific functions in immune responses.
- Leukocyte Alkaline Phosphatase: Leukocyte alkaline phosphatase (LAP) is an enzyme produced by white blood cells, particularly neutrophils. LAP levels may be measured in a blood sample as part of a diagnostic workup for certain conditions, such as chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) or other myeloproliferative disorders. Changes in LAP activity can provide insights into bone marrow function and leukocyte activity.
- Leukocyte Differential (Peripheral Blood Smear): Leukocyte differential, also known as the leukocyte or white blood cell differential count, refers to the relative proportions of different types of white blood cells (neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils) observed on a peripheral blood smear under a microscope. This test helps evaluate immune system function, diagnose infections, and monitor certain medical conditions, such as leukemia and other blood disorders.
- Lupus Anticoagulant Confirmation Test: The lupus anticoagulant confirmation test is performed to confirm the presence of lupus anticoagulant (LA), an autoantibody associated with abnormal blood clotting. LA interferes with blood coagulation tests, leading to falsely prolonged clotting times. Confirmation tests, such as the dilute Russell’s viper venom time (dRVVT) or the kaolin clotting time (KCT), help verify the presence of LA by demonstrating its inhibitory effect on specific coagulation assays.
- Lupus Anticoagulant Screening Test: The lupus anticoagulant screening test is used to detect the presence of lupus anticoagulant (LA), an autoantibody associated with increased risk of abnormal blood clotting and thrombotic events. This test evaluates the prolongation of phospholipid-dependent coagulation assays, such as the activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and dilute Russell’s viper venom time (dRVVT), in the presence of patient plasma. A positive result suggests the need for confirmatory testing to diagnose LA.
- Luteinizing Hormone (LH): Luteinizing hormone (LH) is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that plays a key role in regulating reproductive function. In women, LH helps control the menstrual cycle and stimulates ovulation. In men, LH stimulates the production of testosterone by the testes. LH levels fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle and are commonly measured in fertility evaluations, hormone assessments, and the diagnosis of certain disorders, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and hypogonadism.
- Legionella Pneumophila Antigen: Legionella pneumophila antigen testing is performed to detect the presence of antigens produced by Legionella pneumophila bacteria, which are responsible for causing Legionnaires’ disease, a severe form of pneumonia. This test is particularly useful when diagnosing cases of pneumonia associated with outbreaks or in immunocompromised individuals. Detection of Legionella antigens in urine or respiratory samples helps guide appropriate treatment and infection control measures.
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