Laboratory Testing

It’s more than just the basics at WellMax! In addition to the standard lab tests such as CBC and cholesterol, we offer many patient-need-specific specialty lab panels. These types of specialty tests can tell us not only how much cholesterol you have, but what type. The additional data provided by the specialty laboratory tests will assist our physicians in making their interventional recommendations to you. A panel of laboratory tests is included in our Programs. Please click the menu below to learn more.

• LABORATORY TESTS - CLICK TO VIEW

  • CBC and Chem 20

    A complete blood count (CBC) and twenty chemistry measures (Chemistry 20 panel); which includes measures of liver and kidney function, fasting glucose (blood sugar), and electrolytes.

  • Complete Hormone Panel

    Serum DHEA-S, estrogen (estradiol extraction), testosterone (“free,” total, and “bioavailable”), growth hormone (via IGF-1) and cortisol for both men and women. For men, there is also a measure of DHT (dihydrotestosterone) and LH (luteinizing hormone from the pituitary). For women, there are additionally measures of progesterone and FSH (follicle stimulating hormone from the pituitary).

  • Cardiovascular Risk Panel

    Medical Scientists have discovered many modifiable risk markers for heart disease. Cholesterol is just the tip of the iceberg. Our cardiac panel includes the usual lipid panel of cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and triglycerides. In addition, the type of HDL and LDL are checked, since it makes a big difference in your individual rate of arteriosclerosis. Lipoprotein (a), highly sensitive C-reactive protein, homocysteine, and fasting insulin are measured. Fibrinogen and others can be added for high-risk individuals. Under “research” we can also offer unique markers like MPO (myeloperoxidase), thought to be far more predictive of heart risk than the other tests. Together these many tests provide your individual and unique pattern of cardiac risk markers. These can be modified!

  • Ferritin

    Ferritin serves as a general screen for both iron deficiency and iron overload. Problems with iron shortage and iron storage in the body are much more common than previously recognized. If this test is abnormal, a panel of iron measures can be ordered to clarify exactly what the problem is.

  • Thyroid Screening – T4 Free & TSH

    These two tests measure the function of the thyroid gland and its ongoing “dialogue” with the pituitary gland. Thyroid hormones control the body’s metabolic rate. We can also, if needed, measure serum total and free T3, a different, more active form of thyroid hormone converted peripherally from T4.

  • Tumor Markers (CA125, CEA, PSA, NMP)

    These markers screen for ovarian cancer, colon cancer, prostate cancer and bladder cancer, respectively. NMP is not generally available in other clinics.

  • Genetic Testing

    All human diseases are caused by the interaction between genetic predisposition and modifiable environmental factors. With this knowledge you are given a ‘glimpse’ into your potential health future. Genetic testing empowers the physician to help the patient reduce the risk of disease without waiting for symptoms to appear by using earlier, more precise and customized interventions.
    
    New genes are being made available for testing every few weeks. Currently, a baseline genetic analysis includes a cardiovascular risk panel (Cardio profile) and a detoxification gene panel (Detox Profile). The Cardio profile checks eight different genes to uncover potential genetic susceptibility to elevated cholesterol, arteriosclerosis, obesity, high blood pressure, heart attacks (coronary artery disease), blood clots (thromboses), and stroke. The Detox Profile checks over 20 genes to uncover genetic susceptibility to adverse drug reactions, numerous cancers, neurodegenerative disorders, mood disorders, fatigue syndromes, fibromyalgia, multiple chemical sensitivity and oxidative stress.

  • HIV Antibody

    This test screens for the human immunodeficiency (AIDS) virus.

  • Oxidative Stress

    These optional measures of one’s oxidative stress are currently considered “research.” They can provide enormous insight into your body’s physiology. We also measure oxidized and reduced glutathione, and their ratio. We measure TBARS, and oxidized LDL, paraoxinase (PON), and F2 isoprostanes. These tests can generate enormously valuable information about your body’s defenses against aging and degenerative diseases. Specific therapies (usually nutrients) are available to modify these values.

  • Comprehensive Laboratory Summary

    Your results will be entered into a spreadsheet so that you can easily see all of your tests summarized, and see how they change over time. All the labs are analyzed by the physician and reviewed with you in a comprehensive, individualized letter, and/or by telephone.

  • Comprehensive Eye Exam

    Routine eye exams can detect vision problems, eye disease and general health problems before you are aware a problem exists. Some instruments test for eye conditions (such as nearsightedness and dry eyes), and others test for eye diseases (such as glaucoma). Contrast sensitivity testing can help determine if you have vision problems beyond what is seen on conventional eye charts. Modern eye examinations using wavefront refraction can identify even obscure vision errors that may now be corrected for the first time through LASIK, eyeglasses, or artificial lenses. Your exam will include comprehensive retinal assessment with high resolution imaging; an exam performed to see how light travels through the eye, how the eye refracts or focuses light, and how refractive errors in the eye cause poor vision — but can be detected in an eye exam and corrected. A dilated retinal exam would be performed as needed.

  • Pure Tone Hearing Screening

    You will be asked to place a set of headphones over your ears. The headphones will deliver a series tones into your ears. A device called an audiometer electronically generates these "pure tones" which vary in tone and volume. This test helps to determine the threshold at which a patient hears different frequencies. Each ear is tested individually. You will indicate when you hear a tone by raising your hand or pushing a button. If further evaluation is needed, you will be referred to an audiologist.

  • Cosmetic Skin Consultation

    Enjoy an in-depth consultation to determine your individual skin care needs and address your cosmetic concerns. We utilize a diagnostic and therapeutic approach to skin care for both men and women of all ages and skin types. Here, we combine state-of- the-art treatments with a caring and healing touch to create a pleasant secure environment as well as beautiful results for each patient. A comprehensive treatment program can be provided and may include various prescription-only products and specific nutrients for ongoing skin care maintenance at home.

  • WellScan

    This 45-minute test uses a computer, a microprocessor, and several instruments to assess 12 "biomarkers of aging". These markers include visual accommodation, auditory and visual reflexes, high frequency hearing, pulmonary function, vibro-tactile sense, memory and other functions. Regression analysis is used to compute your "biologic age". If significant problems are discovered in one or more areas, further testing may be done.

  • Personal Health Notebook

    A personalized, comprehensive notebook is prepared for you with details of all of your studies, copies of reports, and our recommendations. You may have this information summarized onto a personalized CD, and soon we will offer an individual secure website accessible only to you and those doctors for whom you delegate access.

  • WellMax Health Portfolio and Membership Program

    This hearing test screens for hearing loss at several frequencies in the conversational range. Dr. Cosgrove is an FAA Medical Examiner, and this equipment is certified for FAA pilot evaluations.