Biochemistry

The Clinical Biochemistry Laboratory at BHT CLINIC İstanbul Tema Hastanesi provides reliable results for the early diagnosis of diseases and treatment monitoring by analyzing body fluids such as blood and urine.

About the department

Biochemistry is a comprehensive branch of science that studies the structures and functions of living organisms at the molecular level. The clinical biochemistry laboratory serving within our hospital plays a critical role in diagnosing diseases, planning treatment processes, and monitoring the general health status of our patients. By analyzing molecular changes in the human body, it investigates what differences occur in the organism during illness and the underlying causes of these disorders.

In our biochemistry laboratory, the compositions of blood, urine, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and other body fluids in normal and pathological conditions are detailed. Laboratory results serve as a major guide for our physicians to make accurate diagnoses and determine the most appropriate treatment methods. In accordance with medical analysis laboratory standards, all our processes are carried out according to international quality norms.

SCOPE OF SERVICES

Routine biochemistry tests
Hormone (endocrinology) tests
Cardiac (heart) tests
Hematology and blood count
Pregnancy screening tests
Blood bank services
Diabetes and cholesterol monitoring
Liver function tests

WHEN SHOULD YOU CONSULT?

Need for routine health screeningWeakness and constant fatigueFasting and postprandial sugar imbalancesSuspected thyroid or hormone disordersRoutine monitoring during pregnancySymptoms of anemiaPreoperative general evaluationUnexplained weight changes

Which Diseases and Conditions Are Analyzed? (Tests Performed in Our Laboratory)

Our hospital offers a wide range of tests for the early diagnosis of diseases and the monitoring of chronic conditions. Guided by our specialist physicians, we can explain the answer to the question of what biochemistry tests are through the main test groups processed in our laboratory:

Routine Biochemistry Tests

Routine tests are of great importance in evaluating general health and checking organ functions. The most frequently performed tests in this scope include:

  • Diabetes (Blood Sugar) Tests: Fasting blood sugar, postprandial blood sugar, and HbA1c tests are used for the diagnosis and monitoring of diabetes.
  • Blood Fats (Lipid Panel): Cholesterol, triglyceride, HDL, and LDL measurements are used to evaluate the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
  • Liver Function Tests: Parameters such as AST, ALT, GGT, and Bilirubin are checked to see if the liver is functioning healthily.
  • Kidney Tests: Kidney functions are monitored by examining values such as urea, creatinine, and uric acid.

Endocrinology (Hormone Science) Tests

The balance of hormones in our body has a direct impact on our overall health. Hormone tests are used to diagnose conditions such as menstrual irregularities, excessive hair growth (hirsutism), unexplained weight gain (obesity), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and developmental delays. Especially for complaints of fatigue and weakness, Thyroid panel, Vitamin D, and Vitamin B12 measurements are frequently requested and processed with high precision in our laboratory.

Cardiac and Hematology Tests

Specific cardiac marker tests are performed for the diagnosis of heart health and diseases. Additionally, within the scope of Hematology (Blood Diseases Science), all necessary tests for the diagnosis of anemia, blood cell counting, and monitoring are meticulously carried out.

Prenatal (Pregnancy) Screening Tests

Prenatal screening tests are of vital importance for expectant mothers to have a healthy pregnancy and to closely monitor the baby's development in the womb. Double, triple, and quadruple tests, performed to screen for chromosomal conditions like Down syndrome, are among the routine services of our laboratory. In addition, Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT - such as Panorama), which allows the examination of the baby's free DNA from the mother's blood, is also safely performed.

Blood Bank (Transfusion Center)

Our hospital has a fully equipped Blood Bank (Transfusion Center). In this center, blood typing (forward and reverse), blood compatibility (cross-match) tests, and antibody screening tests are carried out uninterruptedly.

Diagnostic Methods and Test Processes

To accurately diagnose diseases, the samples obtained in our laboratory undergo detailed analyses at the molecular level. Blood, urine, and other body fluids are examined untouched and with high precision in state-of-the-art autoanalyzer devices. Proper sample collection forms the basis of our diagnostic methods. Blood collection is performed by our expert and experienced nurses under hygienic conditions using single-use sterile materials. Our blood test services in Istanbul are among the most comfortable and safe services offered in our hospital.

Pre-Test Preparation and Procedures

The pre-test preparation process is critical for laboratory tests to provide accurate and reliable results. One of the most frequently asked questions by our patients is whether a blood test is done on an empty stomach. For many biochemistry and hormone tests, patients are generally asked to come to our laboratory after fasting for 8 to 12 hours. Drinking water is allowed during this time, but beverages such as tea, coffee, or fruit juice should not be consumed.

For urine tests and other body fluids, specific information will be provided by your physician or our laboratory specialists. Detailed guidance on simple but directly impactful procedures, such as collecting the midstream of the first morning urine in a sterile container, is provided at our sample acceptance unit.

Technology and Team

The BHT CLINIC İstanbul Tema Hastanesi Clinical Biochemistry Laboratory is equipped with the latest devices in medical technology. All tests are concluded as quickly as possible and with the highest accuracy rate. Internal quality controls are regularly performed in our laboratory every day under the supervision of our specialist physicians and accompanied by our experienced technical staff.

To maintain medical analysis laboratory standards at the highest level, our laboratory is an active and audited member of international quality control programs. Control serums from relevant independent external centers are tested on our devices at specific intervals, and the results obtained are simultaneously compared with other laboratories worldwide. Rare genetic, microbiological, or pathological tests that are not performed within our hospital are processed in internationally accredited contracted reference laboratories and presented to you.

When Should You Visit?

The situations in which you should visit the clinical biochemistry laboratory are usually determined after your physician's examination. However, to protect your general health and detect potential diseases at an early stage, you can have routine blood and urine tests by applying for check-up packages at regular intervals. If you have complaints such as constant fatigue, unexplained weight loss or gain, palpitations, or frequent urination, you can safely have your necessary tests done in our laboratory after being examined by the relevant branch physician.

Appointment and Examination Process

Once your tests are completed, your results are quickly approved by our specialist physicians. You do not need to wait physically at our hospital for BHT CLINIC laboratory results. You can securely access your test results from anywhere by logging into the View E-Results section on our website.

To benefit from the laboratory services offered by our hospital, plan your routine health screenings, or consult our specialist physicians, you can use the Book an Online Appointment link or contact us through our 24/7 call center. Guide your treatment with reliable results without wasting time for your health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to fast for a blood test?

Yes, an 8-12 hour fast is generally required for routine biochemistry tests (especially fasting blood sugar, cholesterol, and lipid panel) and many hormone tests. You can only consume water during this time; you must strictly avoid tea, coffee, smoking, or food consumption.

When will the biochemistry test results be ready?

The results of routine biochemistry and blood count tests processed in our laboratory are usually available on the same day, within a few hours. However, the turnaround time for specialized hormone tests, prenatal screening tests, or specific tests sent to a reference laboratory may vary depending on the type of test.

How is a urine sample provided?

For a urine test, it is ideal to provide the midstream of your first morning urine into the sterile container given to you. Paying attention to genital area hygiene before the procedure increases the accuracy of the test. All necessary detailed instructions will be conveyed to you by the staff at our sample acceptance unit.

What are biochemistry tests?

Biochemistry tests encompass a broad group of analyses that measure the body's chemical balance, such as blood sugar, cholesterol, liver and kidney function tests, thyroid hormones, vitamin levels, and electrolytes. These tests are a fundamental tool for diagnosing diseases and monitoring treatment.

Physicians in this department

The physician list for this unit is being updated. Please call 0850 811 34 00 for appointments and information.