How to Understand Your Lab Results Test
A lab test checks a sample of your blood, urine, or other body fluid to learn about your health. It can show if you have a specific condition or give general health clues, but it doesn't give a complete picture. Your provider will combine test results with your physical exam, health history, and other tests.
What this test measures
A laboratory (lab) test checks a sample of your blood, urine (pee), or other body fluid or tissue to learn about your health. The sample is sent to a lab where health care professionals test it to see if it contains certain substances and, if so, how much.
What your results mean
Reference ranges vary by laboratory and by your age and sex. MedlinePlus does not publish a single normal range for this test — always read your result against the range printed on your own lab report and discuss it with your provider.
Frequently asked questions
What does a lab test check?
A lab test checks a sample of your blood, urine, or other body fluid or tissue to see if it contains certain substances and how much.
Can a lab test tell me if I have a specific disease?
Some lab tests can clearly show whether you do or don't have a specific health condition, like a pregnancy test. Others provide more general information.
What does a negative or normal test result mean?
Negative or normal means the test didn't find what it was looking for, so you're unlikely to have the health problem you were tested for, but you may need more tests.
What does a positive or abnormal test result mean?
Positive or abnormal means the test found what it was looking for, so you may have a disease or infection. You may need more tests to confirm a diagnosis.
What does an inconclusive test result mean?
Inconclusive or uncertain means your test wasn't clearly positive or negative. You will probably be tested again.
Related lab tests
Sources
- MedlinePlus: How to Understand Your Lab Results — NIH MedlinePlus
Last updated . Information is aggregated from official public sources and is not a substitute for professional medical care.