image

Different labs produce different blood test results

In the UK, equipment and testing methods can vary from lab to lab and reference ranges differ between different populations, so blood test reference ranges may vary too.

Confusion with patients interpreting blood test results

If a blood test result falls outside a reference range this does not automatically indicate there is a disease requiring treatment as a reference range does not necessarily mean a ‘normal’ range.

Natural variations

When a collection of people who are considered ‘normal’ are used to work out a reference range for a certain blood test the reference range will vary from laboratory to laboratory.  A complex equation is then used to allow for natural variation within this collection of people and the reference range will be adjusted accordingly.

Other variations

When reviewing blood test results another complicating factor is when ‘false’ positive results and ‘false’ negative results are presented.  Often blood test results need to be interpreted alongside other blood test results undertaken to get a fuller picture of what’s occurring and these frequently need to be repeated as they can be affected by other factors.

Further affecting factors

Blood test results can also be affected by the following:

  • Age
  • Gender
  • Time of day the blood test is taken
  • Whether the patient has eaten or not

Given the above, a clinician who is familiar with a given laboratory’s reference ranges and disease process should review all blood test results.

Click here for more information on getting a health check.

Disclaimer
All content on Silversurfers.com is provided for general information only, and should not be treated at all as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional. Silversurfers will not be responsible or liable for any diagnosis made by a user based on the content on www.silversurfers.com and we are also not liable for the content of any external websites or links from or to Silversurfers to any other websites. Please always consult your own doctor if you’re in any way concerned about any aspect of your health
The following two tabs change content below.

Melina - Assistant Editor

Hi I'm Melina, a mother of 3 teenage children and with a particular interest in all things health related. I run a busy household and smallholding alongside my work with Silversurfers, which currently includes dogs, fish, hens, ducks and pigs!

Latest posts by Melina - Assistant Editor (see all)

Leave a Comment!

Loading Comments