The red blood cell indices These will usually be haemoglobin (Hb), haematocrit (Hct) and RBC. Hb is the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells (erythrocytes) and it can be used…

deficiencies in iron, B12 and glucose); metabolic production ( production of cholesterol, CRP, fibrinogen (PT, INR, aPTT) and albumin); and detoxification of endogenous and exogenous toxins. Liver function tests (LFTs)…

urea and electrolytes or U&Es), a patient with dysfunctional renal output (as shown by a reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of less than 60) may be less able to…

Figure 2.1: Liver function In Figure 2.1 (above), we could review LFT jaundice as follows: Table 2.1: Sample LFT jaundice results Part 3 – Production In this example we will…

Figure 8.1: A normal response to a viral infection In Figure 8.1, the virus uses the internal machinery of the cell to replicate itself. It then bursts the cell and…

potassium to acid base.) Potassium levels are tightly controlled by the kidneys. Hypokalaemia (K <3.5mmol/L) Patient 1 has been affected by inappropriate use or dosage of diuretics, although most are…

Figure 10.1: Flow diagram of insulin-mediated storage of glucose as glycogen Glucose causes insulin to be released from beta cells in the pancreas. Insulin converts glucose to glycogen (in a…

Figure 13.1: Thyroid hormones Hyperthyroidism Hyperthyroidism is raised T4, leading to increased metabolic rate (often with a goitre), agitation and weight loss. Most cases are primary Grave’s autoimmune, although a…

Figure 7.1: Cellular and exudative inflammation The tissue damage elicits a cellular signal: CRP, to recruit and increase the number of neutrophils. To aid this process, the enzyme COX-2 produces…