Ulta Lab Tests

Metabolic Risk Test Panel

The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Apolipoprotein B

C-PEPTIDE, LC/MS/MS

INSULIN RESISTANCE SCORE

INSULIN, INTACT, LC/MS/MS

Also known as: A1c, Glycated Hemoglobin, Glycohemoglobin, Glycosylated Hemoglobin, HA1c, HbA1c, Hemoglobin A1c, Hemoglobin A1c HgbA1C, Hgb A1c

Hemoglobin A1c

The A1c test evaluates the average amount of glucose in the blood over the last 2 to 3 months. It does this by measuring the concentration of glycated (also often called glycosylated) hemoglobin A1c. Hemoglobin is an oxygen-transporting protein found inside red blood cells (RBCs). There are several types of normal hemoglobin, but the predominant form – about 95-98% – is hemoglobin A. As glucose circulates in the blood, some of it spontaneously binds to hemoglobin A. The hemoglobin molecules with attached glucose are called glycated hemoglobin. The higher the concentration of glucose in the blood, the more glycated hemoglobin is formed. Once the glucose binds to the hemoglobin, it remains there for the life of the red blood cell – normally about 120 days. The predominant form of glycated hemoglobin is referred to as HbA1c or A1c. A1c is produced on a daily basis and slowly cleared from the blood as older RBCs die and younger RBCs (with non-glycated hemoglobin) take their place. This test is used to monitor treatment in someone who has been diagnosed with diabetes. It helps to evaluate how well their glucose levels have been controlled by treatment over time. This test may be used to screen for and diagnose diabetes or risk of developing diabetes. In 2010, clinical practice guidelines from the American Diabetes Association (ADA) stated that A1c may be added to fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) as an option for diabetes screening and diagnosis. For monitoring purposes, an A1c of less than 7% indicates good glucose control and a lower risk of diabetic complications for the majority of diabetics. However, in 2012, the ADA and the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) issued a position statement recommending that the management of glucose control in type 2 diabetes be more "patient-centered." Data from recent studies have shown that low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can cause complications and that people with risk of severe hypoglycemia, underlying health conditions, complications, and a limited life expectancy do not necessarily benefit from having a stringent goal of less than 7% for their A1c. The statement recommends that people work closely with their doctor to select a goal that reflects each person's individual health status and that balances risks and benefits.

Also known as: Lipid Panel with Ratios (fasting), Lipid Profile with Ratios (fasting), Lipids

Chol/HDLC Ratio

Cholesterol, Total

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that occurs naturally in all parts of the body. Your body needs some cholesterol to work properly. But if you have too much in your blood, it can combine with other substances in the blood and stick to the walls of your arteries. This is called plaque. Plaque can narrow your arteries or even block them. High levels of cholesterol in the blood can increase your risk of heart disease. Your cholesterol levels tend to rise as you get older. There are usually no signs or symptoms that you have high blood cholesterol, but it can be detected with a blood test. You are likely to have high cholesterol if members of your family have it, if you are overweight or if you eat a lot of fatty foods. You can lower your cholesterol by exercising more and eating more fruits and vegetables. You also may need to take medicine to lower your cholesterol.

HDL Cholesterol

LDL-Cholesterol

LDL/HDL Ratio

Non HDL Cholesterol

Triglycerides

Triglycerides are a form of fat and a major source of energy for the body. This test measures the amount of triglycerides in the blood. Most triglycerides are found in fat (adipose) tissue, but some triglycerides circulate in the blood to provide fuel for muscles to work. After a person eats, an increased level of triglycerides is found in the blood as the body converts the energy not needed right away into fat. Triglycerides move via the blood from the gut to adipose tissue for storage. In between meals, triglycerides are released from fat tissue to be used as an energy source for the body. Most triglycerides are carried in the blood by lipoproteins called very low density lipoproteins (VLDL). High levels of triglycerides in the blood are associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD), although the reason for this is not well understood. Certain factors can contribute to high triglyceride levels and to risk of CVD, including lack of exercise, being overweight, smoking cigarettes, consuming excess alcohol, and medical conditions such as diabetes and kidney disease.
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The Metabolic Risk Test Panel panel contains 4 tests with 12 biomarkers .

The Metabolic Risk Test Panel is a comprehensive set of tests designed to evaluate various aspects of a person's metabolic health, focusing on risk factors that contribute to metabolic syndrome and related conditions. This panel assesses components such as lipid profiles, insulin levels, and markers of glucose metabolism, which are crucial for diagnosing and monitoring diseases linked to metabolic dysfunction, such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

When and Why the Metabolic Risk Test Panel May Be Ordered

Healthcare providers may order the Metabolic Risk Test Panel when a patient shows symptoms or has risk factors for metabolic syndrome, diabetes, or cardiovascular diseases. It is particularly relevant for individuals with obesity, high blood pressure, or a family history of heart disease. The panel is also beneficial for monitoring patients undergoing treatment for these conditions, as it provides insight into the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions and lifestyle changes.

What the Metabolic Risk Test Panel Checks For

The Metabolic Risk Test Panel includes several specific tests, each targeting different components of metabolic health:

  • Apolipoprotein B: This protein is a primary component of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and is a key marker in assessing cardiovascular risk, as high levels are associated with greater risk of heart disease.
  • C-Peptide: This test measures the level of C-peptide in the blood, which is an indicator of insulin production. Low levels can suggest type 1 diabetes, while high levels may indicate insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes.
  • Cardio IQ Insulin Resistance Panel with Score: This test evaluates factors related to insulin resistance and includes measurements like insulin level and glucose level. It calculates an insulin resistance score to assess a person's risk of developing diabetes.
  • Hemoglobin A1c: This test measures the average blood glucose concentration over the past three months, providing a long-term view of blood sugar control in diabetic patients.
  • Insulin Intact: Measuring intact insulin helps in assessing insulin production by the pancreas and determining insulin resistance.
  • Lipid Panel with Ratios: This comprehensive test measures total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. Ratios of these values are used to assess the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Conditions and Diseases Detected by the Metabolic Risk Test Panel

The Metabolic Risk Test Panel is instrumental in detecting several critical health conditions:

  • Metabolic Syndrome: This cluster of conditions increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. It includes high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol levels. The panel helps identify the various components of the syndrome, facilitating early intervention.
  • Diabetes (Type 1 and Type 2): By measuring C-peptide, insulin levels, and Hemoglobin A1c, the panel can help diagnose both types of diabetes and monitor glucose control, which is vital for managing the disease and preventing complications.
  • Cardiovascular Diseases: Tests like the Apolipoprotein B and Lipid Panel with Ratios are crucial for identifying risk factors for heart disease. Elevated levels of certain lipids can indicate an increased risk of atherosclerosis and subsequent heart problems.

Utilizing the Metabolic Risk Test Panel in Treatment and Monitoring

For each condition detected by the panel:

  • Metabolic Syndrome: Healthcare professionals use the results to guide interventions such as dietary modifications, exercise, and medications to manage blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels.
  • Diabetes: The panel provides critical information for adjusting medication doses, planning meals, and scheduling exercise to maintain blood glucose at safe levels.
  • Cardiovascular Diseases: Based on lipid and apolipoprotein levels, treatments may include statins, lifestyle changes, and other therapies aimed at reducing cardiovascular risk.

Conclusion

The Metabolic Risk Test Panel is a vital tool in the arsenal of healthcare providers for diagnosing, monitoring, and managing diseases associated with metabolic dysfunction. By providing a comprehensive snapshot of a patient's metabolic health, it supports targeted interventions that can significantly improve patient outcomes in conditions like metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.

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