Globulin is major component of serum proteins.  It is a group of complex proteins of the blood related to immunity.  Both abnormally high and low levels indicate such things as allergies, infections, immune system disorders and other illnesses.  Readings are increased by chronic liver disease, myeloma and recent infection.  Decreased readings can be the result of Hodgkin’s disease, immune system disorders and lymphoma.

Glucose is the main source of energy for living organisms.  It is sugar in the blood.  Readings are increased by Cushing’s disease, diabetes mellitus and steroid usage.  Decreased readings can be the result of Edison’s disease and hypoglycemia.

Hemoglobin A1C tests are used to confirm elevated blood sugar levels.  Glycosylated Hemoglobin is the percentage of hemoglobin bound to glucose and when it is abnormally high it is usually an indicator of the presence of diabetes.  Readings are increased by uncontrolled diabetes and glucose intolerance.  Decreased readings are seldom significant.

HDL Cholesterol is a specific lipoprotein.  The quantity of HDL as well as the ratio of HDL to total cholesterol is important in determining an individual’s risk of coronary artery disease.  HDL is commonly referred to as the “good cholesterol”, having protective properties against heart disease.  Readings are increased by alcohol abuse, vigorous exercising and certain drugs.  Readings are decreased by anabolic steroids, betablockers, cigarette smoking and obesity. 

Inorganic Phosphates are one of a group of substances related to bone formation.  Readings are increased by diabetic acidosis, renal insufficiency and uremia.  Readings are decreased by hyperparathyroidism and osteomalacia.

Iron is a metallic element essential to hemoglobin formation.  It is necessary for the formation of some proteins, hemoglobin, myoglobin and cytochrome as well as being essential for oxygen transport, cellular respiration and peroxide deactivation.  Readings are increased hemolytic anemia, liver disease and pernicious anemia.  Readings are decreased by chronic infections, hemorrhaging and malabsorption.

LDL is an enzyme found in red blood cells, heart, kidney, liver and muscles.  Readings are increased by cancer, liver disease, myocardial infarction (heart attack) and pancreatitis.

Phosphorus is a non-metallic element found in bones and teeth.  Readings are increased by Addison’s disease and chronic renal failure.  Readings are decreased by alcoholism, diuretics and malnutrition.

Potassium is a body salt.  Readings are increased by Addison’s disease, diabetic acidosis and renal failure.  Readings are decreased by cirrhosis, cortisone use, Cushing’s Syndrome and diuretic use.

PSA testing in males can detect prostate abnormalities including cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia.  Early detection is the key to successful treatment and reduced mortality in men because prostate cancer is usually clinically silent until it reaches an incurable metastitic stage.

Sodium is a body salt.  Readings are increased by Cushing’s Syndrome and dehydration.  Readings are decreased by Addison’s disease, diabetic acidosis and diuretic use.

Total Cholesterol/HDL Ratio is a predictor of coronary artery disease.

Total Protein in serum is a combination of albumin and globulin.  Its measurement assesses the body’s ability to maintain its chemical balance.  Readings are increased by collagen disease, multiple myeloma and rheumatoid arthritis.  Readings are decreased by anemia, chronic liver disease and malnutrition.

Triglycerides are blood fats related to calorie and starch intake.  Readings are increased by alcoholism, diabetes, high sugar diet, liver disease, oral contraceptives and pancreatitis.  Readings are decreased by liver disease and malnutrition. 

Uric acid is a byproduct of nucleic acids.  Readings are increased by cancer, diuretics, gout, high protein diet and renal failure.  Readings are decreased by high aspirin intake, Hodgkin’s disease and Wilson’s disease.