Optimal Assessment

The primary protein on LDL and VLDL particles. Each atherogenic lipoprotein particle carries exactly one ApoB molecule, making it a direct measure of the number of particles that can enter artery walls. Considered a superior predictor of cardiovascular risk compared to LDL cholesterol.

The percentage of white blood cells that are basophils. Basophils play a role in allergic reactions by releasing histamine and other inflammatory mediators.

The percentage of white blood cells that are eosinophils. Elevated eosinophil percentages are commonly associated with allergic reactions and parasitic infections.

Erythrocyte sedimentation rate — measures how quickly red blood cells settle to the bottom of a test tube. Faster settling indicates more inflammation. ESR is a non-specific marker used to monitor inflammatory conditions like arthritis and vasculitis.

The primary iron storage protein. Ferritin reflects total body iron stores and is the first marker to drop in iron deficiency. However, ferritin also rises with inflammation, infection, and liver disease, which can mask true iron deficiency.

Essential for DNA synthesis, cell division, and red blood cell formation. Folate deficiency causes megaloblastic anemia and, during pregnancy, increases the risk of neural tube defects. Works closely with vitamin B12.

The percentage of your blood volume occupied by red blood cells. It reflects the balance between red blood cell production and loss, helping diagnose anemia, dehydration, and polycythemia.

The iron-rich protein in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen throughout your body and returning carbon dioxide to the lungs. Low haemoglobin is the primary marker for anemia and can cause fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.

Reflects your average blood sugar over the past 2–3 months by measuring the percentage of hemoglobin with attached glucose. HbA1c is the gold standard for diagnosing and monitoring diabetes, unaffected by daily fluctuations.

Often called 'good' cholesterol, HDL carries cholesterol away from arteries back to the liver for removal. Higher HDL levels are protective against heart disease. Exercise, healthy fats, and moderate alcohol intake can raise HDL.

Often called 'bad' cholesterol, LDL deposits cholesterol in artery walls, contributing to plaque buildup and atherosclerosis. LDL is the primary target for cardiovascular risk reduction through diet, exercise, and medication.

Lp(a) is a cholesterol-carrying particle linked to genetic risk for heart disease. High levels increase cardiovascular risk.

The percentage of white blood cells that are lymphocytes, key players in adaptive immunity including antibody production and cell-mediated immune responses.

The average concentration of hemoglobin within each red blood cell. It helps differentiate types of anemia — low MCHC points to iron deficiency, while high MCHC can indicate spherocytosis.

The average amount of hemoglobin in each red blood cell. Low MCH indicates that red blood cells carry less oxygen than normal, commonly seen in iron-deficiency anemia.

The average size of your red blood cells. Small cells (microcytic) suggest iron deficiency, while large cells (macrocytic) may indicate vitamin B12 or folate deficiency. Normal-sized cells with low count suggest chronic disease.

The percentage of white blood cells that are monocytes. Monocytes are part of the innate immune system and develop into macrophages and dendritic cells in tissues.

The percentage of white blood cells that are neutrophils. Neutrophils are the most common WBC type and respond primarily to bacterial infections.

Measures the number of platelets, small cell fragments essential for blood clotting. Low platelets increase bleeding risk, while high platelets may increase clot risk. Important for monitoring clotting disorders and medication effects.

Measures the variation in size among your red blood cells. A high RDW means your red blood cells vary significantly in size, which can help distinguish between different types of anemia.

The combined measure of all cholesterol in your blood, including HDL, LDL, and VLDL. While useful as an overview, the breakdown between HDL and LDL is more clinically meaningful for assessing cardiovascular risk.

The percentage of transferrin (iron-transporting protein) that is carrying iron. Calculated from serum iron and TIBC. Low saturation indicates iron deficiency; high saturation may indicate hemochromatosis (iron overload).

The most common type of fat in the body, stored for energy. Elevated triglycerides — often from excess sugar, alcohol, or calories — increase cardiovascular risk and can cause pancreatitis at very high levels.

A waste product from the breakdown of purines (found in certain foods and body cells). High levels can form crystals in joints (gout) or kidneys (kidney stones). Also associated with cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome.

Essential for nerve function, DNA synthesis, and red blood cell formation. B12 deficiency can cause anemia, neuropathy, fatigue, and cognitive impairment. Common in vegans, vegetarians, older adults, and those taking metformin or acid-reducing medications.

The best indicator of overall vitamin D status. Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption, bone health, immune function, and mood regulation. Deficiency is extremely common, especially in northern latitudes, and linked to increased disease risk.

Measures the total number of white blood cells, your body's primary defense against infection. Elevated levels may indicate infection, inflammation, or immune disorders, while low levels can signal bone marrow problems or autoimmune conditions.