Lab Results Frustration

[horsesjapan]

My blood test results are in, but no one will tell me anything! They won't just give me a copy of the results, and when the nurse at the clinic called back, she said all she had were numbers, no reference ranges for "normal" results, and she said she really didn't know what all the "IgA" stuff was anyway, so she figured it was something unusual but can't tell me what the numbers are. So now I'm waiting for the doc to call back. I'm wondering, does the normal range for the blood tests vary from lab to lab or is it pretty standard? I know they had to send the tests off base (we are stationed in Italy), so I'm hoping they don't have to call the lab and find out what normal is. Things in Italy are run at a (MUCH) slower pace lol, so I'm afraid they will wait a week to call back. Though they did get the test done quickly, the blood was drawn 31 March. I just want to know the results!!!!

Nancy

[2kids4me]

Reference values do vary from lab to lab - based on the type of test run. Certain kits and reagents, equipment used have various "normal ranges" and are usually printed out along with the results. I dont know about laws in Italy but in Canada, I can get copies of any lab results for my own records, once the dr has seen them. I think the reason they are not wanting to give them to you now is because the doctor hasnt reviewed them. Also, the doctor has to give permission for the staff to release the info - so when you talk to the doctor...ask him to "release" a copy so you have it.

It is so frustrating when they are slow as molasses to get back to the patient!

Sandy

[nora-n]

Generally, they test the tissue transglutaminase and antgliadin IgA, and the total IgA. If the total IgA is low, they also run the IgG version of these tests. (at least here)

Here the reference ranges of most labs is published on the internet.

nora