Tests starting with the letter D
Laboratory Test Guide: Tests Beginning with the Letter "D"
A complete list of all tests beginning with the letter "D" performed at Egemed Hospitals’ Medical Laboratories is provided below. To help our patients understand these tests in advance, a brief medical description of each test group and its intended laboratory use are clearly stated.
Hematology and Coagulation Tests
D-dimer
D-DIMER (FDP)
Description: This test measures protein fragments (particles) that are released into the bloodstream during the breakdown (degradation) of blood clots in the body.
Purpose: It is used in emergency situations to rule out and diagnose life-threatening vascular occlusions such as Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), Pulmonary Embolism (a blood clot in the lung), and Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC).
Biochemistry, Hormone, and Endocrinology Tests
Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate (DHEA-SO₄)
Description: It is a precursor androgen produced by the adrenal glands and used in the synthesis of both male (androgen) and female (estrogen) hormones.
Purpose: This test is used to diagnose excessive hair growth (hirsutism), menstrual irregularities, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and adrenal gland tumors or dysfunction in women.
DHT/Testosterone Panel
Description: This is a simultaneous analysis of total testosterone levels and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is a much more active and potent form of the testosterone hormone in tissues.
Purpose: This test is used to diagnose genetic hair loss (androgenetic alopecia), benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and disorders of sexual development in men, and to evaluate hyperandrogenism (excess male hormones) in women.
DOPAMINE Plasma
Description: This is a measurement of a catecholamine (neurotransmitter) that facilitates communication between the nervous system and the organs and also has a critical effect on blood pressure and heart rate.
Purpose: This test is ordered to diagnose rare neuroendocrine (adrenal gland) tumors, such as pheochromocytoma and neuroblastoma, and to investigate unexplained severe hypertensive crises.
Immunology, Allergy, and Specific Panels
DERMATOLOGY PANEL
Description: This is a comprehensive and specific blood test that screens for underlying allergic, autoimmune, or cellular factors associated with skin conditions characterized by rashes, redness, itching, or fluid-filled blisters.
Purpose: To identify the exact cause of complex skin diseases such as chronic hives (urticaria), eczema (atopic dermatitis), and pemphigus, and to guide physicians in planning the appropriate dermatological treatment.
Toxicology and Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (TDM)
DIGOXIN
Description: This test measures the concentration in the blood of "Digoxin," an active ingredient used in the treatment of heart failure and certain arrhythmias (such as atrial fibrillation).
Purpose: To check whether the drug’s blood level is within the therapeutic range and to prevent the risk of life-threatening toxicity that may result from the dose.