Tests and Procedures

Overview The blood urea nitrogen (BUN) test measures how much urea nitrogen is in a person’s bloodstream. Urea nitrogen is a waste product that forms when…

Overview Creatinine is a waste product made when muscles use energy. The kidneys remove creatinine from the blood by filtering it out through urine. Health professionals…

Overview A hemoglobin test measures how much hemoglobin is in the blood. Hemoglobin is a protein inside red blood cells. It has an important job: carrying…

Overview Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a type of cosmetic surgery that increases breast size. Surgeons place breast implants—either saline or silicone gel—under…

Overview Allergy skin tests help identify certain substances that trigger allergic reactions. During these tests, healthcare providers place allergens on the skin and watch for any…

Overview The PSA test checks the amount of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in a person’s The PSA test checks the amount of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in a…

Overview A peripherally inserted central catheter, or PICC line, is a slender tube that healthcare providers place through a vein in the upper arm, extending toward…

Overview The minipill, sometimes called the progestin-only pill, is a type of oral birth control people use for contraception. Unlike combination pills, it does not include…

Overview Labor induction occurs when obstetricians start contractions because labor does not begin naturally. This process can help support the health of both the pregnant person…

Overview Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) uses controlled electrical currents to trigger a quick seizure in the brain while the person is asleep under anesthesia. Doctors often choose…