Breast cancer awareness is rising among the younger generation, yet confusion persists regarding the difference between Breast Ultrasound (USG) and Mammography. While both aim to detect breast abnormalities, they operate on different principles and serve different purposes. Breast Ultrasound uses ultrasonic sound waves to visualize internal tissue. This method is highly effective for examining lumps or cysts felt during a physical exam. It is typically recommended for younger women or those w...

PSA Test, The Essential Screening to Detect Prostate Cancer Prostate cancer often develops silently over the years, making early detection a crucial game-changer for men's health. This is where the PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) Test comes in as a primary screening tool. PSA is a protein produced by the prostate gland. This test measures the level of PSA in the blood through a standard venous blood sample. Elevated levels can indicate potential issues, acting as a "red flag." However, a h...

The TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) test for newborns is one of the most essential screenings performed shortly after birth. This test helps detect congenital hypothyroidism, a condition where the baby’s thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. What Is the Newborn TSH Test? The TSH test measures the amount of thyroid-stimulating hormone in the blood. It is performed on babies aged 2–4 days, using a small heel-prick blood sample. If the TSH level is below 20 µU/mL, it is considere...

Have you ever noticed turning up the volume or asking others to repeat what they said? These may be early signs of hearing loss. The audiometry test helps detect such issues early and ensures your hearing stays sharp. What Is an Audiometry Test? An audiometry test measures how well you can hear different sounds, tones, and pitches. It evaluates both hearing sensitivity and inner ear function. The test is essential for people frequently exposed to loud noises, older adults, or anyone noticing...

Living in a tropical climate means Dengue Fever is a constant threat we cannot ignore. The scariest part of Dengue is often the uncertainty in the first few days of fever. Is it just a viral flu, or is it the mosquito-borne menace? In this Labpedia edition, we discuss the NS1 Antigen Test, the gold standard for early Dengue detection. Decoding NS1 NS1 stands for Non-Structural Protein 1. This is a protein produced by the Dengue virus itself. Unlike antibody tests that wait for your immune sys...

Platelets and White Blood Cells: Key Indicators of Your Body’s Defense System When reviewing blood test results, many people focus solely on the numbers without understanding their meaning. Platelets and white blood cells are two essential components that reflect the condition of your body’s defense system. Platelets play a crucial role in blood clotting, helping prevent excessive bleeding when injuries occur. Low platelet levels may increase the risk of bleeding and are often associated w...