Diagnostic tests are used to help identify and treat illnesses.
Diagnostic tests refer to medical tests used to determine the presence or absence of a particular disease. Doctors order tests to detect illness early, diagnose illness and monitor treatment and progression of disease. Results of medical tests provide essential information health care professionals use to make important decisions about treatment. According to the American Heart Association, diagnostic tests are either invasive or non-invasive. Medical tests requiring the insertion of tubes, a scope or use of a needle are considered to be invasive.
Screening
Physicians order tests to determine the presence of disease in people who are not necessarily feeling ill, but the tests are performed as a preventative measure. The objective of screening is to detect disease and begin treatment as early as possible to increase the likelihood of cure. Diagnostic tests are commonly used to screen for the presence of certain types of cancer. For example, a mammogram is a test for breast cancer in women. Pap smears are tests for cervical cancer; a colonoscopy is performed to detect cancerous growths or polyps in the large intestine. Colonoscopy is an invasive procedure as it requires the use of a tubed scope.
Diagnosis
Diagnostic testing is also done to confirm a diagnosis for someone already experiencing symptoms. The purpose of diagnosis is to determine the disease-causing illness so an appropriate treatment can be prescribed. Common tests used to establish diagnosis include x-rays for fractures and respiratory illnesses, urinalysis for kidney infection and a throat culture to test for strep throat. Diagnostic testing is particularly helpful in determining the particular microorganism responsible for infection; knowing this, the doctor can prescribe the most effective antibiotic.
Treatment Monitoring
Once treatment has started, it is important to monitor its level of effectiveness. The objective is to be certain that the prescribed course of treatment is working. If the course of treatment is found not to be doing its intended job or producing unbearable side effects, an adjustment can be made. One of the ways to judge the effectiveness of treatment, for example, the use of a particular drug, is to run a diagnostic test.
Monitoring Disease Status
Monitoring the progression of certain medical conditions is another reason diagnostic tests are given. For example, liver function tests indicate whether markers for liver damage are present in the bloodstream. Such tests are essential in assessing the course and necessity of additional treatment in diseases such as hepatitis B and C, sickle cell disease and liver cancer. Because the creatinine urine test checks kidney function, it is useful in monitoring the progression of muscular dystrophy and renal disease.
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