Post-COVID-19 Expanded Test Panel

A CBC measures 15 components of your blood to help identify bleeding disorders or infections and to evaluate abnormal levels of specific blood components, such as low levels of red blood cells, which transport oxygen to body cells and tissues (anemia) and high levels of abnormal white blood cells that crowd out red blood cells and platelets (leukemia). T cells destroy the body's own cells that have been infected with viruses or have developed cancer. Both B cells and T cells protect against future invasions of bacteria, viruses, and parasites by generating antibodies that retain antigen recognition and protect against such antigens. Red blood cells and T cells could be impacted due to a previous COVID-19 infection. The CBC can detect blood abnormalities.

The C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Test measures the amount of CRP in your blood. CRP is a protein produced by the liver and is a marker of inflammation. Increased CRP levels are found in inflammatory conditions including bacterial infection, rheumatic fever, potential malignancies, autoimmune disorders, active arthritis, cardiac disease, heart attack, and conditions related to the immune system. Those with severe lingering COVID-19 symptoms may have elevated CRP levels which could indicate higher risk of cardiovascular disease.

Ferritin is a protein in the blood that contains iron and helps you understand how much iron your body is storing. Blood levels of ferritin correlate to the body’s iron status. Because iron is an important component of oxygen-carrying hemoglobin in the blood, low ferritin levels may indicate an iron deficiency. If your ferritin levels are higher than normal, you may have an underlying condition that causes your body to store too much iron. It could also indicate liver disease, rheumatoid arthritis, or inflammatory diseases, for example.

The Thyroid Function Test measures thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels in the blood to evaluate thyroid function, which is critical for regulating weight, energy, body temperature, mood, and overall health. If your TSH levels are abnormally high or low, this may indicate that your thyroid is either underactive (hypothyroidism) or overactive (hyperthyroidism). If test results identify abnormal TSH levels, free thyroxine (T4) blood levels will be evaluated using your submitted sample to provide information needed to accurately diagnose hypothyroidism. There is a potential parallel between Long COVID and abnormal thyroid function which may trigger pre-existing thyroid disease or autoimmunity caused by a thyroid infection, however many thyroid conditions can be managed with treatment.

The Vitamin B12 Test measures the level of vitamin B12 in your blood. Vitamin B12 is absorbed in the small intestines and then makes its way to the blood and cells. The body also stores vitamin B12 in the liver for future use. Vitamin B12 is essential in supporting the nervous system, making red blood cells, and creating DNA (the genetic material present in our cells). Vitamin B12 must be supplied by the diet or supplementation because the body is not able to produce it independently. It is naturally found in animal proteins, such as red meat, fish, poultry, eggs, and dairy. Plant foods are not a reliable source of vitamin B12 unless they are fortified. Low levels of vitamin B12 may occur if you do not consume enough vitamin B12 or the body does not store or absorb enough of the vitamin. People who are deficient in vitamin B12 may or may not have any symptoms of anemia (a condition in which your body does not have enough healthy red cells to carry oxygen to your body’s tissues) or nerve damage. Early detection is important to prevent irreversible damage over time, especially to the nervous system. Vitamin B12 supports the immune system and helps your body fight off viruses. Many symptoms of long COVID are the same as those with a vitamin B12 deficiency. If your body is low in B12, you may not be able to fight viruses as well.

The Vitamin D Test measures the amount of 25-hydroxyvitamin D, an indicator for the level of Vitamin D in your body. Vitamin D is involved in regulating calcium and phosphorus, which are essential nutrients to promote bone strength and cellular health. Vitamin D can also help the immune system fight infections. Your body produces Vitamin D after exposure to sunlight or from consuming certain foods and supplements. An adequate level of this vitamin is necessary for immune function, heart and blood vessel health, insulin regulation, and mood. Abnormal levels of vitamin D can indicate bone disease, nutrition disorders, or other metabolic complications. Many symptoms of Long Covid are the same as those with a Vitamin D deficiency. If your body is low in vitamin D, you may not be able to fight off viruses as well.

A urinalysis, also called a urine panel, consists of a series of tests used to evaluate visual, chemical, and microscopic features of urine. Urinalysis may be used to identify potential risks for diabetes, liver disease, and kidney disease. A urinalysis can help to identify lower urinary tract symptoms and kidney injury caused by inflammation from a severe COVID-19 infection.

These are broad screening tools that assess over 15 different substances to evaluate sugar (glucose) levels, kidney function, liver function, electrolyte and fluid imbalance, and more. These test panels are often used by healthcare professionals to detect and monitor various abnormalities, including nutrient balance, diabetes, and kidney and liver disease. The BMP and Hepatic Function Panel contain important tests to identify potential health risks or medical conditions associated with Long COVID.