What Blood Work Tests Can Show

Blood tests provide valuable information about health, but one number alone usually should not determine a treatment decision. A lab result is often a clue that helps guide a bigger picture evaluation.

For example, LDL cholesterol is commonly called “bad cholesterol,” but LDL particles are not all identical. Looking deeper at cholesterol markers can provide more information. Tests such as ApoB can estimate the number of atherogenic particles, while Lp(a) can help identify an inherited cardiovascular risk factor.

Other useful markers may include:

• hs-CRP: a marker associated with inflammation
• Fasting insulin: can help evaluate insulin resistance when interpreted with other metabolic markers
• A1c, fasting glucose, triglycerides, HDL, and other markers: help complete the picture

Understanding your blood work as a whole can lead to better-informed conversations with your healthcare provider rather than focusing on a single number.