Biochemistry

Biochemistry

Biochemical tests can be used in conjunction with clinical history , examination, comorbidities and drug history . Albumin, C-reactive protein and white cell counts can be markers of infection or inflammation, which can compromise nutritional status. Hypoalbuminaemia can be associated with malnutrition; however, it is easily a ff ected by fluid balance and is not a reliable parameter of nutritional status in the acute setting. Haemoglobin levels can indicate the presence of anaemia related to a lack of appropriate vitamins. Glycated haemoglo bin can reflect diabetes and blood glucose control. Electrolytes such as sodium and urea can reflect under lying renal function, while calcium and phosphate are useful baseline measurements in anticipation of potential refeeding syndrome (discussed in more detail later in this chapter). Specific micronutrient lev such as vitamin D levels can also be measured in the appropri ate clinical contexts. Biochemistry

Biochemical tests can be used in conjunction with clinical history , examination, comorbidities and drug history . Albumin, C-reactive protein and white cell counts can be markers of infection or inflammation, which can compromise nutritional status. Hypoalbuminaemia can be associated with malnutrition; however, it is easily a ff ected by fluid balance and is not a reliable parameter of nutritional status in the acute setting. Haemoglobin levels can indicate the presence of anaemia related to a lack of appropriate vitamins. Glycated haemoglo bin can reflect diabetes and blood glucose control. Electrolytes such as sodium and urea can reflect under lying renal function, while calcium and phosphate are useful baseline measurements in anticipation of potential refeeding syndrome (discussed in more detail later in this chapter). Specific micronutrient lev such as vitamin D levels can also be measured in the appropri ate clinical contexts. Biochemistry

Biochemical tests can be used in conjunction with clinical history , examination, comorbidities and drug history . Albumin, C-reactive protein and white cell counts can be markers of infection or inflammation, which can compromise nutritional status. Hypoalbuminaemia can be associated with malnutrition; however, it is easily a ff ected by fluid balance and is not a reliable parameter of nutritional status in the acute setting. Haemoglobin levels can indicate the presence of anaemia related to a lack of appropriate vitamins. Glycated haemoglo bin can reflect diabetes and blood glucose control. Electrolytes such as sodium and urea can reflect under lying renal function, while calcium and phosphate are useful baseline measurements in anticipation of potential refeeding syndrome (discussed in more detail later in this chapter). Specific micronutrient lev such as vitamin D levels can also be measured in the appropri ate clinical contexts.