Recently, I had a client ask me what the difference is between having one blood work profile done over another. She explained that she had always thought all blood work was the same and tested for everything we need to look at. I explained that this is not the case at all.
Blood work panels can be very simple or very complex. Most basic blood work panels evaluate a CBC (Complete Blood Count) and Chemistry. A CBC looks at white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets. This can be particularly effective for evaluating for infection, inflammation, anemia, coagulation problems, blood parasites, hydration and blood volume, in addition to other things. A basic chemistry panel evaluates a few liver enzymes, kidney enzymes, protein levels, glucose levels and that's about it. More thorough panels will also evaluate more liver enzymes, enzymes associated with the gallbladder and pancreas, electrolytes and minerals.
Of course, there are specific blood tests that can just test for something in particular. For example, common blood work tests that we run every day in clinics include a test for Heartworm disease ( a blood borne parasite that migrates to and lives in the heart), Feline Leukemia and FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus), Pancreatic Serum Lipase tests, Tick borne disease tests. These simple, fast blood tests can help rule out these diseases. Other commonly performed blood work includes specific panels to evaluate metabolic changes and likely endocrine disease. These include blood work to evaluate the thyroid gland, adrenal glands and pancreatic testing. There are even panels that are designed to test for levels of medication in your pet, such as seizure medications. These are often used to follow up on your pet's response to a specific medication.
Keep these tests in mind next time you visit your veterinarian. Blood work is usually recommended once yearly as a screening profile to be sure everything is looking okay with your pet. The type of panel and cost of the panel should be discussed with your vet. Senior or geriatric panels should always be considered with pets as they age. Pre-anesthetic blood work can also add insight prior to surgery and is always recommended.
Let me know if you have specific questions about certain panels or information for pets with obvious clinical signs, such as vomiting or fever. A physical exam and history always aids a veterinarian in making a decision about blood work and helps them pick the panel that will tell us the most about what might be going on with your pet.
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Questions Answered By:
Dr. Lauryn Spohn, DVM
