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Tests and investigations – articles and advice

Explore clear guides and advice on common medical tests and investigations, from scans to blood tests. For detailed reference, see our Patient Information Leaflets on tests and investigations.

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Tests and investigations

How to prepare for a blood test

by Lynn Stephen

Modern MRI scanner machine with glowing neon lights in purple and blue tones, futuristic graphic style, on a gradient background, concept of advanced healthcare, 3D Rendering

Tests and investigations

The complete guide to getting a scan

by Scan.com

Human hand holding blood drop shape with blood level on red background. Awareness of hematologic disorders such as anaemia, sickle cell disease, haemophilia, leukaemia and ITP. Blood donation.

Tests and investigations

What does a full blood count show us?

by Lynn Stephen

Surgical gloved hand holding test tubes filled with blood against a purple background

Tests and investigations

NHS to roll out world-first blood test for cancer

by Lawrence Higgins

Blood tests

Blood tests are laboratory analyses of blood samples used to check general health, diagnose medical conditions, monitor ongoing diseases, and evaluate how well organs are functioning.

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General tests and investigations

From allergy testing to imaging and more. Learn when these tests are used and what they involve.

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Screening tests

Screening detects early signs of disease before symptoms appear. Learn which screening tests are available and how they help protect your health.

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