Blood test for anion differences is a way to find the acid-base balance (pH balance) of your blood. It indicates whether your blood is considered very acidic or slightly acidic. This test uses the results of another blood test called an electrolyte panel. Electrolytes are electrically charged minerals in the body, such as sodium, potassium, and bicarbonate. They help control the acid-base balance of the blood.
Some electrolytes have a flattering electron load. Others have a negative electron load. The anion valley defines the difference (or gap) between the negatively charged electrode and the positively charged electrolyte in the blood. If the anion valley is very large, the blood is more acidic than normal. If the anion valley is very small, your blood is slightly acidic. Both high and low totals can be symptoms of a serious disorder in the body that requires attention.
Other name: Serum Anion Gap.
What is it used for?
Blood tests with anion differences indicate whether the electrolytes are out of balance and whether the blood is very acidic or slightly acidic. A very high acid content in the blood is called acidosis. A very low amount of acid in the blood is called alkalosis. Both disorders can be serious.
Why is the Bloedanion difference test necessary?
A physician can order a Blood Anion Shift Test if there are signs that indicate that the acidity of the blood is deviating from recognized values. These signs can
- Dyspneu
- Dyspneu (vomiting and diarrhea)
- Arithm (heartbeat speed or rhythm problems)
- Confusion
- Fatigue
what happens during the anion gap blood test?
The anion gap test is a reimbursement based on the results of a blood test, the electrolyte panel.
During the blood test, the physician draws a blood sample from a vein in the arm with the help of a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood is collected in a tube. As the needle goes in and out, a light burning sensation can be felt. It usually takes no more than 5 minutes.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for the test?
No special preparation is required for the blood test with anion differences. If your caregiver announces additional investigations regarding the blood sample, you will need to be malnourished a few hours before the test (do not eat or drink). Your physician will tell you if there are any special instructions you should follow.
Are there any risks associated with the test?
There is no sufficient risk involved in this test. You may feel a little pain and bruising in the area where the needle is inserted, but most signs disappear quickly.
What do the results mean?
Different types of diseases can cause abnormal anion test results. Physicians use anion gap test results, disease status, and other studies to make a diagnosis.
A high anion gap test result means that you have acidosis (more acidic blood than normal). Acidosis can be caused by
- Dehydration
- Diarrhea
- Excessive exercise
- Kidney disease
- Diabetes mellitus (diabetic ketoacidosis)
- Certain medications and poisons
A test result of low anion valley means that there is alkalosis (blood that is less acidic than normal). However, because this result is so rare, physicians usually test again to ensure that the result is accurate.
The most common cause of a low anion gap is a low albumin level. This is a protein in the blood. Low albumin levels can be a symptom of drinking too little protein, kidney problems, liver damage, heart disease, or some forms of cancer.
What else should I know about blood testing?
The anion gap in your blood provides information about the acid-base balance of your blood. It can tell you about the health of many of your bodily functions. However, there is a wide range of normal results and numerous possible bases for abnormal results. Finally, talk to your doctor about what the test results mean and whether you need follow-up studies to make a diagnosis.
Supplied by MedlinePlus from the State Medical Library.
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