A normal arterial blood gas (ABG) Taking arterial blood gases What is an ABG? For analysis a small sample of arterial blood (approximately 2ml) taken via an intermittent ‘stab’ into an artery (usually at the wrist, see above); or from an arterial sampling device (arterial line) situated in an artery (if on intensive care). […]
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10 facts about prostate cancer In this article we will describe 10 facts about prostate cancer. 5 Key Points Most common cancer in men – with over 52,000 new cases in the UK diagnosed each year More common in older men – with 75% of cases diagnosed in men over 65 years Majority of prostate […]
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A normal chest x-ray – the basics In this article we will describe what is a normal chest x-ray and how to interpret it. This is a normal chest x-ray (CXR). It is a PA and lateral chest x-ray of a healthy woman. Note mild pectus excavatum on the lateral image (arrows). Why is this […]
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A normal blood creatinine level A normal blood creatinine level is 60-120 mcmol/L (micromoles per litre). It is used to assess kidney function (i.e. how well your kidneys are filtering your blood) – the higher the number, the worse the function. But. Creatinine level does not just depend on someone’s kidney function. It is also […]
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A normal blood GFR level A normal eGFR number is 90-120 ml/min – the higher the GFR, the better the kidney function, the better. What is GFR used for? The GFR is used to: Diagnose CKD Monitor – changes in kidney function over time Decide – whether you need dialysis or a kidney transplant. But […]
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A normal ECG – the basics The electrocardiogram (ECG) is a key diagnostic tool in medicine; providing information on cardiac function and structure. But what does a normal one look like? I.e. a normal ECG. Let’s start with some basics. A normal ECG. The longer version of II at the bottom is called the ‘rhythm […]
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10 cellulitis facts In this article we will describe 10 facts aboiut cellulitis. Key Points Cellulitis is a common bacterial skin infection that requires prompt treatment. In acute cellulitis, there is a rapid onset of symptoms, usually caused by Streptococcus or Staphylococcus bacteria. It can affect anyone, but certain groups are at higher risk. Antibiotics […]
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10 bladder cancer facts In this article we will describe 10 bladder cancer facts. 1. Common cancer Bladder cancer is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide. It primarily affects older adults – about 90% of people with bladder cancer are older than 55 years. The average age of diagnosis is 70-75 years. […]
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What is a normal blood magnesium level? Normal blood magnesium level A normal blood magnesium level in the UK is between 0.7–1.0 mmol/L. However, normal ranges may vary slightly between laboratories. Magnesium is a mineral that’s important for many bodily functions, including muscle and nerve function, bone health, and heart function. High and low magnesium […]
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A normal blood haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) level A normal HbA1c level is below 42 mmol/mol. What is haemoglobin HbA1c? Haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is a blood test that measures your average blood glucose (sugar) level over the past two to three months. It is used a way of diagnosing diabetes and monitoring its control. What is […]
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