Biomarkers Available In Our Home Test Kits

Calcium binds to proteins in the blood, especially albumin. So when albumin levels are low, calcium levels will be measured as low, even though the level of unbound calcium in the blood may be normal.

A corrected calcium result aims to compensate for the serum albumin level and indicates the true calcium level.

Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) is an enzyme mainly found in your liver. ALT is used by your body to break down food into energy, with levels in the blood normally low.

Following liver damage, the levels of ALT in your blood will rise making it a useful means to indicate liver problems.

Fluctuation of ALT levels is normal over the course of the day, and can also increase in response to strenuous physical exercise.

Albumin (ALB) is a protein produced by the liver and is the most abundant protein in the blood.

It transports components throughout the body, nourishes tissues & prevents blood vessel leakage.

Albumin is highly sensitive to liver damage so lower levels can indicate when the liver is damaged.

Many other factors also affect albumin levels, such as malnutrition, acute illnesses and inflammation.

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme found in the human body in the kidneys, liver, bones and digestive system.

High levels of ALP typically result from liver damage or bone damage of any cause.

Amphetamines are synthetic stimulants that increase energy levels and alertness. The most common form on the street is Amphetamine sulphate which is typically snorted or swallowed when dissolved in a drink. It can also be taken in pill/tablet form or as a paste known as base.

Regular use of amphetamine often leads to physical and psychological dependence on the drug, with withdrawal symptoms including tiredness, hunger, irritability, depression, insomnia and mood swings.

CCP antibodies target healthy tissues in the joints. If CCP antibodies are found in your blood, it can be a sign of rheumatoid arthritis. 

Barbiturates are synthetic sedative drugs which slow down the central nervous system, and used to be regularly prescribed for anxiety and depression and insomnia.  They are no longer common on the street due to the increased prescription of benzodiazepines.

Regular use leads to physical dependence develop and withdrawal may result in irritability, anxiety or an inability to sleep. High dose withdrawal can have severe symptoms including seizures, low blood pressure and delerium - and can even be fatal.

Basophils are a white blood cell responsible for allergic responses and fighting infections.

They should make up about 1% or less of your total white blood cell count.

Benzodiazepines include a wide variety of different drugs with different effects and duration of effect. The most common types include diazepam (Valium), temazepam, and nitrazepam. The date-rape drug Flunitrazepam (Rohypnol) is also a benzodiazepine.

Benzodiazepines are depressant drugs and so are used medicinally to treat people with panic attacks or anxiety. Serious physical and psychological addiction can occur when benzodiazepines are taken regularly over a prolonged period.

Bilirubin is a natural waste product formed by the breakdown of the haemoglobin in your red blood cells. The liver then processes bilirubin before its removal from your body.

High levels of bilirubin in the blood can lead to yellowing of the skin (jaundice) and can indicate that liver damage is present. However, there are a number of other medical conditions associated with a high bilirubin level including disorders of red blood cell breakdown, gallbladder or pancreatic diseases or sepsis.

Also know as a peripheral blood smear, this test is included when other results are significantly abnormal. 

A single drop of your blood is spread in a thin layer on a glass slide for inspection by microscope.

Visual inspection by a medical scientist or haematologist is done to look for abnormal or immature cells.

C-reactive Protein (CRP) is a non-specific marker that can indicate the presence of infection and inflammation. It is protein that is part of the innate immune response.

The high sensitivity test can also be used to assess cardiovascular disease risk, as cardiovascular disease is associated with chronic inflammation and CRP levels can be used to track inflammation.

Nearly all (99%) of your body's calcium is found in the bones. The rest circulates in your blood in both 'free' and 'bound' forms.

This test measures for the total amount of calcium in your blood and can indicate low (hypocalcaemia) or high (hypercalcaemia). Both low and high levels are associated with a number of conditions related to Vitamin D, parathyroid gland, kidney disease or bone diseases.

Cannabinoids are the chemical substances that join to the endocannabinoid  communications system found in the brain and body. The effects caused by cannabis result from cannabinoids interacting with specific receptors in the brain, in a similar manner to opioids.

Cannabinoids are most commonly sources from cannabis, as the dried leaves and flowers (buds) or as resin from the flowers.

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are the cannabinoids.foundin the highest concentrations in cannabis.

Increasingly, synthetic cannabinoids such as HU-210, UR-144, JWH, 5F-ADB etc have been produced, with similar effects as THC but with much more variable potency.

Chloride (Cl) is an electrolyte which helps maintain the normal acid-base (pH) balance and levels of water in the body.

Chloride is eaten in the form of sodium chloride - salt - so it normally increases or decreases in direct relationship to sodium.

It is tested to assess if the body’s pH balance is correct.

Cholesterol is a fatty substance known as a lipid and is vital for the normal functioning of the body. It's mainly made by the liver, but can also be found in some foods.

Having a high cholesterol level, associated with a high amount of fats in your blood (hyperlipidaemia) can be detrimental to your health. There is evidence that having high cholesterol increases your risk from cardiovascular diseases and associated death. It's also important to consider the ratio of 'Good' and 'Bad' cholesterol.

Cocaine is a highly addictive stimulant that's typically snorted as a fine white powder (coke) or smoked as small crystal (crack. Cocaine is made from the native South American coca plant and while it does have medicinal usage, is illegal for recreational usage. 

Cocaine can make you feel confident, alert, excited and full of energy. But it can also have a number of side effects including raised body temperature, increased heart rate, anxiety and paranoia. Street cocaine is often mixed with other contaminants including talcum powder or flour, or other drugs such as amphetamines or synthetic opioids.  

Cocaine is also very addictive, due to its effect on the release of dopamine by the brain. Psychological dependence is the most common addiction.

Testing for COVID-19 IgG & IgM antibodies can identify whether you have previously been infected with Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) and have recovered.

Most people who have had coronavirus develop antibodies to the virus. It is likely, but not yet known for certain, that the presence of these antibodies provides a degree of protective immunity from future infection.

COVID-19 antibody testing should be conducted at least 14 days following exposure or the onset of symptoms. 

Testing for the COVID-19 antigen can identify whether you are currently infected with Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) and have an active infection.

The COVID-19 disease - Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) - is a respiratory tract infection, with common symptoms including a continuous cough.

Samples are taken from the upper respiratory tract using a nasal/throat swab.

COVID-19 antigen testing should be conducted between 1 and 5 days after the onset of symptoms. 

Cortisol is your body's main stress hormone, influencing your mood, motivation, and fear.

The production and release of cortisol follows a circadian rhythm, highest in the early morning with several pulses throughout the day to the lowest levels in the evening.

This is called a diurnal rhythm and is clearly linked to daily activity patterns.

But cortisol is also released in high quantities in response to stress, to help the body respond appropriately, so high levels are a good indicator of this.

Although cortisol has an important role in driving your body's “fight-or-flight” instinct during a crisis, it also plays numerous other important roles on a daily basis. For example:

• Managing the use of key nutrients like fats, proteins and carbohydrates
• Controlling your sleep patterns
• Regulating your blood pressure
• Reducing inflammation
• Increasing your blood sugar levels
• Boosting energy levels to handle stressful events

Cortisol is produced in your adrenal glands, small organs at the top of your kidneys. The rate of cortisol production and release is carefully controlled by three different parts of the body communicating together. These are the pituitary gland, adrenal gland and the hypothalamus.

Testing for cortisol levels is useful for understanding adrenal gland function, particularly if someone suffers from hypertension (high blood pressure) - as elevated levels of cortisol contribute to hypertension.

Creatinine is a natural waste product formed in your muscles. It results from the breakdown of creatine during energy release - i.e. movement and exercise.

Nearly all creatinine is excreted by your kidneys, so measuring the level remaining in the blood can determine if your kidneys work normally.

Bone is constantly undergoing a remodelling process, with your collagen cross-linked by specific molecules that provide rigidity and strength. One of these crosslinks is deoxypyridinoline (DPD).

Measuring DPD indicates the level of free and total cross-links in your bones. The purpose of the test is to assess for bone resorption (high bone turnover) which is useful to assess for bone conditions such as osteoarthritis, osteoporosis but also other factors that affect bone such as Paget's disease, bone cancers, fracture and bone infections.

However, it is important to note that there are several factors which can influence the levels of DPD and for this reason, it is not a routine test for assessment of bone diseases, rather an indicator of increase bone resoprtion and should be used in combination with other tests that are used to assess for these conditions.

Bone is constantly undergoing a remodelling process, with your collagen cross-linked by specific molecules that provide rigidity and strength. One of these crosslinks is deoxypyridinoline (DPD).

Measuring the DPD to Creatinine ratio helps indicate the level of bone resorption, the process by which bone tissue is broken down.

Eosinophils are a white blood cell responsible for allergic responses and fighting infections, particularly worm infection

They should make up about 1 - 3% of your total white blood cell count.

Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) reveals the inflammatory activity in your body.

This test helps gauge unexplained fever, certain types of arthritis and symptoms that affect your muscles.

ESR is non-specific to a particular condition so is used to indicate the overall level of your body’s inflammatory response. Note that you can still have an underlying problem even with a  normal result.

Your glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a calculation made using your creatinine test levels, age and gender. It estimates how much blood passes through the microscopic filters - glomeruli - in the kidneys that are responsible for filtering waste products from your bloodstream. 

As such GFR is the best way to assess your overall level of kidney function.

Ferritin is a blood protein that is high in iron, making it a very good indicator of the overall amount of iron stored in the body.

Iron is crucial for the production of healthy red blood cells, and deficiencies may eventually lead to iron deficiency anaemia.

 Ferritin is a protein known as acute phase reactant - this means that levels of ferritin are increase when the body has to respond to an insult such as infection, inflammation, trauma or cancer. When the test is done whilst the patient is suffering from these condition, interpretation can be very tricky. Alternatively, ferritin can also be used to monitor resolution of inflammation in certain conditions

Follicle-stimulating hormone is a crucial sex hormone associated with fertility. It should be measured by both partners when there is difficulty in getting pregnant.

In women, it is involved in egg development and should be tested if you have irregular or no menstrual periods.

In men it plays a role in sperm production so should be checked if you have a lowered sperm count, low muscle mass or decreased sex drive.

A FAI (Free Androgen Index) test evaluates the ratio of total testosterone to sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) in the blood. It helps estimate the amount of free, or unbound, testosterone which is biologically active and available for the body to use.

This test is often used to assess hormonal balance, particularly in diagnosing conditions related to abnormal testosterone levels.

Free testosterone is a specific form of the hormone testosterone that is not bound to proteins in the bloodstream.

In adult men, it plays vital roles in several physiological processes, such as maintaining muscle strength, bone density, and influencing levels of aggression and fertility, including healthy sperm production.

Thyroxine (T4) is the most prevalent thyroid hormone produced by the thyroid gland.

It is responsible for many vital roles in the body including, metabolism, heart and muscle function, brain development and bone maintenance.

Measurement of Free Thyroxine (FT4) is used to assess thyroid health.

The Full Blood Count (FBC) is a panel of tests assessing white blood cells, red blood cells, platelets and plasma are the main components of your blood, responsible for carrying nutrients, oxygen and immunity throughout your body.

White blood cells help maintain a healthy immune system, while red blood cells carry oxygen and distribute it to your tissues. Platelets play a role in clotting to prevent haemorrhage when there is trauma such as cuts.

The enzyme Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) is found throughout the body, but it is most concentrated in your liver.

This makes a GGT blood test very useful helping to assess liver function and general health.

GGT levels are usually low, but can rise following liver damage. A GGT test is also particularly sensitive to detecting bile duct problems and levels can be acutely affected by alcohol consumption

Gardnerella Vaginalis - AKA Bacterial vaginosis - is the most common cause of unpleasant "fishy" vaginal odor and a yellow or white vaginal discharge.

Bacterial vaginosis is caused when normal vaginal bacteria are replaced by other types of bacteria that normally are present in smaller concentrations. It is not known what causes this change, as Gardnerella Vaginalis can occur spontaneously in the vagina or can be transmitted sexually.

Up to 50% of women with Gardnerella Vaginalis experience no symptoms so it is important to check if you are at risk.

Genital Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection caused by bacteria, which can be passed from person to person during vaginal sex, oral sex, or anal sex.

The symptoms of the disease include painful urination, vaginal bleeding/discharge or pain when having sex.

Importantly chlamydia can lie dormant for many years without symptoms so it should be checked if you are at risk.

Genital Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted disease caused by bacteria that can be passed through vaginal, oral and anal sexual intercourse.

The symptoms can be painful and include frequent urination, yellow discharge from the urethra and vagina and bleeding between menstruations.

Unfortunately most carriers - especially women - show no or very mild symptoms so a test is essential if you are at risk

The Trichomonas vaginalis parasite causes Trichomoniasis. This sexually transmitted infection infects the urethra in both men and women.

In men, it also affects the head of the penis and the prostate gland can also become infected.

In women, the vagina is the main area of infection.

The Trichomonas parasite is usually spread by having unprotected sex.

The symptoms of Trichomoniasis typically develop within four weeks of infection. However, as many as half of all people don't develop any symptoms.

A Trichomoniasis test is recommended if you are at risk.

Globulins are a group term for proteins that make up nearly half of the total protein in your blood.  Globulins have a critical role in normal liver function, fighting infection and blood clotting.

Globulins are created by the immune system and the liver. The amount of globulins in your blood helps indicate many conditions such as liver damage, kidney diseases, autoimmune conditions or nutritional problems.

HbA1c is a type of haemoglobin that forms naturally in the body, when sugars bind with haemoglobin in the blood.

This process happens slowly so the test indicates your average blood sugar levels over the last 2 to 3 months.

This test can be used to assess if you are diabetic, monitor response to lifestyle change or treatment by assessing the change in level of glycated haemoglobin. 

Note: For patients with red blood cell diseases (such as haemolytic anaemia), HbA1c may not accurately reflect glucose control and a different test is required.

Your haematocrit measures how much of your blood is made up of cells and is expressed as a percentage.

Nearly all of the cells in your blood are red blood cells (RBCs).

Haemoglobin is a protein found in the red blood cells, which are the most abundant cells in your blood. Haemoglobin carries oxygen from your lungs to the cells of your body, so it is a good indicator for your blood's ability to carry oxygen and deliver it to your tissues.

Please refer to the information for HbA1c in mmol/mol units. We include the percentage to aid comparison against any previous values.

Good Cholesterol (HDL) is a waxy substance present in your blood. Studies show that Good Cholesterol plays a role in removing Bad Cholesterol (LDL) from your arteries.

HDL carries this cholesterol to the liver where it can be removed from the body. So high levels of Good Cholesterol may reduce the risk from heart attack and stroke.

Conversely low levels of Good Cholesterol are linked with an increased risk of heart disease.

HDL Cholesterol shown as a percentage of your total cholesterol.

Hepatitis B is an infection occurring in the liver that may cause scarring of the liver, cancer and failure.

It is transmitted to others through contact with blood infected with the hepatitis B virus.

Risk factors include unprotected sex, injecting drugs, tattoos or other blood contact.

This tests detects the presence of Hepatitis B antigens which indicate your body has started an immune response against the virus.

Only some people develop symptoms, and will fight off the infection without realising they had it.

Additionally, since the virus can still be spread to other people you should get tested if you are at risk.

This test detects the presence of the Hepatitis B core antibody, which indicates either a previous or active hepatitis B infection.

Unlike the surface antibody, the core antibody does not provide protection (immunity) against the virus.

A "positive" or "reactive" anti-HBs test indicates the presence of antibodies to the hepatitis B virus. These antibodies provide protection - immunity - from further infection from the virus

Hepatitis B surface antibodies (Anti-HBs) are present in the blood after recovering from a previous infection, or from having received a hepatitis B vaccination.

Hepatitis B Surface Antigen is a protein found on the outside of the Hepatitis B virus. It's the first serologic biomarker that can be detected after a new acute infection.

It's presence in your blood is used to identify the presence of the Hepatitis B virus.

Hepatitis C is a virus which can affect the liver and cause serious life threatening damage over time – but it is usually possible to cure the infection.

This test detects antibodies exists in the blood, which indicates your immune system is responding to the presence of the virus.

Importantly, Hepatitis C is often symptomless until significant liver damage has occurred, so it is important to be checked if you are at risk.

This test is used for initial screening for hepatitis C. It uses an advanced enzyme immunoassay method with a sensitivity/specificity of approximately 99%.

The herpes simplex virus, typically known as herpes, is a lifelong condition found in two types: Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 and Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2.

Both types can cause genital herepes; Type 1 is mainly transmitted orally (and can cause oral herpes i.e. cold sores) and Type 2 is a sexually transmitted infection.

Symptoms of the herpes simplex viruscan include painful blisters or ulcers at the site of infection. When symptoms are present herpes is at its most contagious. Importantly, infection with Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 increases the risk of acquiring and transmitting HIV infection.

However, most oral and genital herpes infections have no symptoms so it is important to check if you are at risk.

C-reactive Protein normally increases in the blood following inflammation and infection.

However chronic low levels of inflammation are linked to a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease (heart disease) and complications such as heart attack and strokes.

A very high sensitivity (hs-CRP) test is used to ensure that these low levels of inflammation are detected.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus - HIV - exists as two species of virus which target your immune system. Over time this progressively weakens your immune system leading to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

This reduces your ability to fight disease and infections.

There are two types of HIV - 1 and 2 - and discriminating between them is clinically important. The latest testing technology is used to detect HIV with maximum sensitivity.

Early symptoms can be very mild so you should get tested if you have been at risk.

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that damages your immune system and weakens your ability to fight everyday infections and disease.

It can ultimately result in AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome).

There are two types of HIV - 1 and 2 - and discriminating between them is clinically important. The latest testing technology is used to detect HIV with maximum sensitivity.

Early symptoms can be very mild so you should get tested if you have been at risk.

Bad Cholesterol (LDL) is detrimental to your health.

High levels of Bad Cholesterol contribute to fatty build-ups in arteries (atherosclerosis).

These plaques narrow arteries and raise the risk for heart attack, stroke and peripheral artery disease.

Luteinising hormone is a hormone present in the blood which helps regulate the reproductive system, especially that of women (their ovaries) and in men (their testes).

It is made in your pituitary gland, sometimes referred to as the 'master gland' due to its importance in hormonal control.

Luteinising hormone helps regulate the menstrual cycle and help determine fertility when pregnancy is planned or are used to gauge the onset of the menopause

Lymphocytes should make up approximately 25% of your total white blood cell count.

They exist in two main forms: B cells and T cells, the numbers of which increases in the presence of infection.

If you test positive for Mycoplasma Genitalium a Macrolide Resistance Test is also conducted to assess the level of resistance to the macolide class of antibiotics.

This helps identify what courses of treatment may be required.

Magnesium is a vital mineral involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body. It's essential for bone health, nerve and muscle function, and maintaining a healthy immune system.

This test measures the level of magnesium in your blood and can help identify conditions such as hypomagnesemia (low magnesium) or hypermagnesemia (high magnesium), which can be indicative of various health issues.

The Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin (MCH) test determines the average quantity of haemoglobin per red blood cell.

Haemoglobin is essential for carrying oxygen from your lungs to the tissues of your body.

Haemoglobin is a protein inside your red blood cells (RBCs) and is responsible for carrying oxygen throughout your body.

The Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) tests measures the average concentration of haemoglobin within RBCs.

Mean corpuscular volume (MCV) testing measures red blood cell average volume.

Red blood cells are essential for the transport of gases to and your lungs.

If you are anaemic, MCV can indicate the cause or type of anaemia

Platelets are small particles in your blood which help your body form clots to prevent bleeding. The mean platelet volume (MPV) test measures their average size and is closely related to the platelet count.

Monocytes are a type of white blood cell that dispose of foreign particles and bacteria.

They should make up about 5 - 10% of your white blood cells.

Mycoplasma genitalium (MG) typically invades the cells lining the genital and urinary tracts in men and women and can also be found in the rectum and lungs. 

In men typical symptoms include a watery discharge from the penis or a burning, stinging sensation when you urinate.

For women, symptoms ususually include vaginal discharge or pain and beleeding during or after sex.

Note that Mycoplasma genitalium doesn’t always cause symptoms, and as many as 1 in 100 people may be infected with it. So it is important to check if you are at risk.

Neutrophils are a white blood cell that disposes of foreign particles and bacteria. Normally neutrophils are the highest concentration of white blood cells at up to 60%.

During an immune response, neutrophils rapidly travel to the site of infection.

Your non-HDL cholesterol result refers to your total cholesterol value minus your HDL cholesterol.

It is a good risk predictor for all cardiovascular disease events and for strokes.

Oestrogens are steroid sex hormones responsible for female reproductive organ function and secondary sex characteristics.

Together with progesterone they regulate the menstrual cycle & help maintain a healthy pregnancy.

There are three main forms of oestrogen and this test measures oestradiol (E2) as a good marker for overall ovarian function.

Omega-3s are a group of fatty acids (a.k.a. lipids) essential for life, and part of the composition of vital organs of our body.

They are mostly found in oily fish, in addition to many seeds and oils such as flaxseed, walnut, or vegetable oils.

Linoleic acid is the predominant n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) in the Western diet and we can obtain it from vegetable oils such as sunflower, safflower, soybean, corn, and canola oils as well as nuts and seeds.

Oral Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted disease that is transferred through oral sex when the mouth becomes in contact with bodily fluids.

The most common symptom is a sore throat, sometimes accompanied by a mild fever and swollen lymph glands.

However, many people remain symptom-free. Chlamydia has serious medical implications so it is important to get checked if you are at risk.

Oral Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted disease caused by bacteria, acquired through contact with a discharge from a sexual partner.

The main symptom of oral gonorrhoea is having a sore throat.

However, up to 90% of people may have no symptoms so it is important to get checked if you are at risk.

p24 antigen is a structural protein that makes up most of the HIV viral core.

High levels of p24 are present in the blood serum of newly infected individuals, making p24 antigen assays useful in diagnosing primary HIV infection.

The PLAC® test measures levels of the enzyme lipoprotein phospholipase. This enzyme indicates the possibility of plaque accumulation, a substance that accumulates inside your arteries causing them to harden and narrow.

Plaques make it hard for the heart to pump blood, restricting the blood flow and oxygen supply to vital organs. This increases the risk of blood clots known as thrombosis. These can block the flow of blood to the heart or brain.

A platelet count checks that your platelets - tiny particles responsible for clotting - are present in normal quantities. Note, that the platelet count does not tell you about the whether the platelets are functioning properly or not. For example, if you are taking aspirin or other anti-platelet medication, the platelet count will be normal but the platelets will not work.

Platelets are vital for ensuring correct blood clotting (coagulation) following injury by helping to seal blood vessels.

A potassium test measures the level of potassium in your blood. Although potassium is present in all bodily fluids, the majority is contained within the cells of your body. The amount released into the serum portion of your blood is usually closely controlled, mainly by hormones such as aldosterone. However, many conditions can lead to serum concentration being too low or too high.

Potassium plays an important role in nerve signalling and muscle communication.  It also assists in the transfer of nutrients into cells and the removal of waste products in the kidneys.

Potassium levels are very tightly controlled and either high or low levels can cause serious medical problems and emergencies such as abnormal heart rhythms.

Prolactin (PRL) is a hormone normally present in low amounts in men and non-pregnant women. Its main physiological role is in promoting milk production during breast feeding

In women higher levels inhibit the hormones that trigger ovulation and allow eggs to develop and mature.

In men its exact role is unclear but high levels can cause infertility, low sexual desire & erectile dysfunction.

Interestingly the levels of prolactin are regulated by the neurotransmitters which can also be influenced by moods and depression.

Rectal Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted disease that is transferred via bodily fluids through anal sex.

The most common symptoms are rectal pain, discharge or bleeding.

However many people remain symptom free. Chlamydia has serious medical implications so it is important to get checked if you are at risk.

Rectal Gonorrhoea is caused by a bacteria and occurs when bodily fluid is exchanged during anal sexual intercourse.

Symptoms of rectal infection in both men and women may include discharge, anal itching, soreness, bleeding, or painful bowel movements.

It can also have no symptoms so if you are at risk you should get tested.

Your red blood cell count quantifies the number of red blood cells in your blood.

Red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs and distributing it to the tissues and organs throughout your body.

Red blood cell distribution width (RCDW) tests the amount of variation in the volume of your red blood cells.

This is closely related to the Red Cell Count.

The Red Cell Folate test measure Vitamin B9 (also known as Folate) contained in your red blood cells.

Folate is an essential B vitamin. It helps utilise amino acids which are the building blocks of proteins, in order to form blood cells, tissue and aid cellular repair.

Vitamin B9 must be consumed regularly in the diet - typically from green vegetables and fruits. All pregnant women need increased amounts of folate for proper fetal development.

Rheumatoid factor (RF) is a protein naturally present in your blood. It is made by your immune system, but can mistakenly identify your own tissue as "foreign" and cause an attack on your own body.

80% of people with rheumatoid arthritis will have elevated RF levels. So rheumatoid factor (RF) testing is a useful tool to help identify the presence of this autoimmune condition. However, it is important to note that rarely, patients without rheumatoid arthritis may have an elevated level of RF and patients may have rheumatoid arthritis but do not have an elevated RF

Iron plays an important role in many bodily processes. Most of the iron in your body is found in your red blood cells.

Serum iron levels are measured to fully understand the level of iron in your blood. They should be reviewed alongside Iron studies which includes Transferrin saturation, Total Iron Binding Capacity and Ferritin.

Sex hormone binding globulin - or SHBG for short, is a protein that binds to three sex hormones found in both men and women: testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, and estradiol.

SHBG helps by regulating the amount of these hormones that are free in the blood stream and active throughout the body. It is produced in the liver and can be measured through a simple blood test.

Abnormal levels of SHBG can be an indicator of health problems such as polycystic ovary syndrome, hyperthyroidism, and diabetes. Additionally, SHBG levels can be used to inform decisions about hormone therapy, such as the selection of an appropriate dose of testosterone replacement therapy or the use of estrogen-containing medications. It can also be used to diagnose hormone deficiencies or imbalances, particularly those related to sex hormones. 

Sodium is essential to normal bodily function, playing a critical role in the maintenance of normal blood pressure. Sodium also helps regulate your body's fluid balance and aids in nerve and muscle communication.

Sodium levels in the blood, as well as all body water, are regulated by the kidneys ideally within a very narrow concentration range.

Abnormal blood sodium is usually due to an issue with hormone production or thirst and results in too little (dehydration) or too much (edema) body water content.

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by an infection with bacteria known as Treponema pallidum.

Like other STIs, syphilis can be spread by any type of sexual contact. Syphilis can also be spread from an infected mother to the fetus during pregnancy or to the baby at the time of birth.

Syphilis can remain hidden in the latent phase with no symptoms for many years so you should get tested if you have been at risk.

Testosterone is a key androgen hormone involved in the development and maintenance of male physical characteristics.

In adult men, it supports sperm production, muscle and bone health, libido, energy levels, and aspects of mood and motivation.

In women, testosterone plays a role in libido, energy, mood, muscle and bone health, and overall hormonal balance, despite being present at much lower levels than in men.

Thyroglobulin is a protein made and used in the thyroid gland. Its function is to make the two crucial thyroid hormones triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4).

Since thyroglobulin occurs naturally in the body, usually your immune system does not produce high levels of antibodies against it (Thyroglobulin antibodies - TGAB). However autoimmune diseases can cause high levels of thyroglobulin antibodies resulting in disorder of the thyroid gland - both overactive and underactive thyroid disorders may develop as a result.

Thyroid peroxidase is an enzyme that helps in the production of thyroid hormones.

If other thyroid tests (FT3, FT4, TSH) indicate disorder with your thyroid, Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies (TPO) in your blood suggests that the cause of this could be an autoimmune disorder.

This occurs where your immune system makes antibodies that mistakenly attack normal tissue. However, there is a small chance that you have TPO antibodies but dont have a thyroid disorder.

Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) is a crucial hormone made in the pituitary gland.

When levels of thyroid hormone in your blood are low, more TSH is made and released from the pituitary gland. Conversely, when thyroid hormone levels are high, the pituitary gland produces lower levels of TSH.

This role in thyroid gland regulation makes a thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) test ideal for assessing overall thyroid function.

TSH is also a very useful marker of appropriate dose of thyroid replacement medication if you have an underactive thyroid.

Thyroxine (T4) is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland. It is biologically inactive until it is converted naturally to the active form T3.

These hormones are essential for many bodily functions, including the regulation of your metabolic rate, muscle control, bone maintenance and growth and brain development.

As such abnormal levels can lead to a huge range of issues and should be investigated further.

Iron is needed to produce red blood cells in the body. Iron is absorbed from foods or from supplements.

Total iron-binding capacity measures the ability of your blood to attach to iron and transport it around your body. The body alters TIBC levels according to Iron levels.

Proteins are absorbed from foods and are vital parts of all cells and tissues. They are used to build muscles, skin, blood, bones and cartilage as well as making enzymes, hormones and other essential chemicals.

The total protein test measures the blood levels of two different classes of proteins; albumin and globulin.

Abnormal levels can result from liver or kidney disorders.

Triglycerides are a form of dietary fat found in meats, dairy produce and cooking oils.

Unlike cholesterol, it is not certain whether triglycerides contribute to the risk of cardiovascular disease or whether underlying conditions such as diabetes or obesity are the problem.

However, there is evidence to suggest that this is the case so it is generally recommended to keep your blood levels low - especially if you are already at risk of cardiovascular disease.

Triglyerides are a crucial compenent of several molecules but it is their excessive accumulation that is thought to be related to long term cardiovascular diseases. Note, acute rises in triglycerides may cause other illness such as pancreatitis.

Triiodothyronine (T3) is the one of the two main hormones released by the thyroid gland. It's primary role is to regulate your body's metabolism as part of your endocrine hormone system.

This test measures the biologically active unbound form in the blood - Free T3 (FT3).

Increased or decreased levels indicate an imbalance and should be interpreted alongside other thyroid markers.

A UIBC (Unsaturated Iron-Binding Capacity) test is a blood test that measures the amount of unsaturated transferrin, a protein responsible for transporting iron in the blood. It is used to evaluate a person's overall iron status and can help diagnose various conditions related to iron metabolism, such as iron deficiency or iron overload.

A UIBC test is often performed in conjunction with other iron-related tests, like serum iron, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), and ferritin, to provide a more comprehensive assessment of a person's iron levels.

It's important to note that UIBC values should be interpreted in conjunction with other iron-related tests, as well as a patient's medical history and clinical presentation.

Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) is a waste product naturally produced in your body.

Proteins eaten in your diet are processed by the liver and during this process blood urea nitrogen is released into the blood.

The BUN is passed to your kidneys and then healthy kidneys flush it from the body in urine.

As such, abnormal levels may indicate an issue with your kidney function.

Ureaplasma is a group of bacteria found in the respiratory, urinary and reproductive tracts. 

Most people have Ureaplasma in their bodies without even knowing it, but Ureaplasma is linked to diseases and conditions that affect the male and female reproductive systems.

Ureaplasma does not usually cause symptoms when your immune system is healthy, but can cause trouble getting pregnant, pain, discharge, and itching of the genital area, or pelvic or abdominal pain.

Vitamin B12 is an important vitamin for many bodily functions, such as brain health, blood cell production, and proper nerve function.

Vitamin B12 is absorbed through foods such as meat, fish and eggs with several years worth stored in the liver, so deficiencies are uncommon in non-vegans.

Other than dietary causes, vitamin B12 levels can be abnormal in gastrointestinal diseases such as pernicious anaemia, inflammatory bowels disease or coeliacs disease.

Vitamin B9 (also known as Folate) is an important B vitamin. It helps utilise amino acids which are the building blocks of proteins, in order to form blood cells, tissue and aid cellular repair.

Vitamin B9 must be consumed regularly in the diet - typically from green vegetables and fruits. All pregnant women need increased amounts of folate for proper fetal development even if the levels are normal.

Vitamin D is an essential vitamin, mostly produced in the skin by sunlight (up to 90%) although it is also absorbed from food & supplements.

Its main role is regulating how the body absorbs calcium, phosphate and magnesium from the gut.

Correct levels of these minerals are vital for healthy bone growth.

A White Cell Count (WBC) test indicates the number of white blood cells in your blood.

White blood cells protect your body from infection and assist in your immune response.

The blood contains five main groups of white blood cells. These are neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils and basophils. Results for each of these cell types are also detailed separately.