From the Guidelines
For a 15-year-old female, the recommended laboratory tests should include a complete blood count (CBC), comprehensive metabolic panel, lipid panel, thyroid function tests, urinalysis, and hemoglobin A1C, as well as screening for sexually transmitted infections if sexually active, as supported by 1 and 1.
Laboratory Tests
The following laboratory tests are recommended:
- Complete blood count (CBC) to assess for anemia, white blood cell count, and platelet levels
- Comprehensive metabolic panel to evaluate kidney and liver function, electrolytes, and glucose levels
- Lipid panel to screen for cholesterol abnormalities
- Thyroid function tests including TSH to check for thyroid disorders
- Urinalysis to screen for urinary tract infections or kidney issues
- Hemoglobin A1C to screen for diabetes
Sexually Transmitted Infection Screening
Sexually active adolescents should be screened for sexually transmitted infections, including:
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- HIV As recommended by 1 and 1, screening for these infections is crucial in preventing long-term complications and promoting public health.
Additional Tests
Additional tests may be considered based on the patient's medical history, family history, presenting symptoms, and risk factors, such as:
- Iron studies to evaluate for iron deficiency anemia
- Vitamin D levels, especially in those with limited sun exposure or dietary restrictions These tests provide a comprehensive baseline assessment of the adolescent's health status and can identify common conditions that may emerge during puberty and adolescence, as supported by 1 and 1.
From the Research
Laboratory Tests for a 15-Year-Old Female
The following laboratory tests are relevant for a 15-year-old female:
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) with differential count and reticulocyte count, as it provides valuable information for diagnosing blood disorders 2
- Hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, which should be part of a baseline hematology evaluation starting at age 12 months, or younger if clinically indicated 2
Rationale for Laboratory Tests
The rationale for collecting these laboratory tests is to:
- Narrow the differential diagnosis and tailor the subsequent evaluation 2
- Identify possible diagnoses before consulting a specialist 2
- Inform the plan of care and produce the best patient outcomes 3
Key Considerations
Key considerations for interpreting laboratory test results include: