Clinical Chemistry Basics

Clinical chemistry integrates chemistry with the study of human health and disease, providing essential information through analyses of body fluids and tissues.
Common samples analyzed include whole blood, urine, and various body fluids, informing on organ function and disorders.
Biomarkers, including hormones and their metabolites, are measured through dynamic tests to identify endocrinopathies.

Enables monitoring of therapeutic drugs, and detection of trace elements and toxins, expanding the parameters assessed in clinical chemistry.

Concentration of analytes is reported in either conventional units or Systeme International (SI) units.
SI units comprise seven base units that help represent compounds in molar terms, enhancing understanding of their relationships.
Analyte concentrations are often expressed in mmol/L; enzymatic activity measured in IU/L (International Unit) or KU/L (katal unit).
pH is measured using the pH scale, and liter is standardized as the reference volume in SI measurements.

Reference ranges are derived from recognized sources including textbooks and accredited laboratories, with additional specifications for individuals below 18 years of age.
Confidence limits and reference limits may vary based on the methods employed by different clinical laboratories.

Newborn infants (neonates) are defined as children under 28 days of age.
Infants are categorized as individuals aged 0-1 year.
The pediatric age range extends from birth to 18 years; however, pediatricians may also serve individuals older than 18, such as young adults.