Antinuclear Antibody Test
A blood test that is used to detect autoimmune diseases. Typically, these unusual antibodies are directed against elements within the nucleus of cells.

CA 125
A blood sample or fluid from the chest or abdominal cavity is examined for CA 125, a protein that's a so-called tumor marker.

CAT Scan
A procedure that produces images of structures within the body created by a computer that takes data from multiple X-ray images and turns them in pictures on a screen.

Chemotherapy
This treatment—which can be given intravenously (through a vein), by mouth, through an injection (shot), or applied on the skin—destroys cancer cells.

Colonoscopy
Procedure using a viewing tube that enables an examiner (usually a gastroenterologist) to evaluate the appearance of the inside of the colon (large bowel).

Complete Blood Count
A calculation of the cellular (formed elements) of blood. Generally determined by specially designed machines that analyze the different components of blood in less than a minute.

Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG)
Surgically creates new routes around narrowed and blocked arteries, which allow sufficient blood flow to deliver oxygen and nutrients to the heart muscles.

Cortisone Injection
Used to treat localized inflammation (local injections) or widespread inflammation (systemic injections).

Creatinine Blood Test
This blood test can detect abnormally high levels of creatinine, which indicates kidney malfunction or failure.

Electrolytes
The balance of the electrolytes in our bodies is essential for normal function of our cells and our organs. Common electrolytes measured by blood tests include sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate.

Hemoglobin
Hemoglobin is the protein molecule in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues and returns carbon dioxide from the tissues to the lungs. Low hemoglobin levels may indicate anemia, while high levels may be caused by lung disease and certain tumors.

Hysterectomy
The uterus is removed during this common surgical procedure.

Lap Band Surgery (Gastric Banding)
This is a surgical weight loss procedure that involves the placement of an adjustable belt around the upper portion of the stomach.

Liver Blood Tests
Blood tests often used to detect and monitor liver damage that measures certain liver enzymes.

MRI Scan
An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan is a radiology technique using magnetism, radio waves, and a computer to produce images of body structures.

Pap Smear
During this procedure, cells from a woman's cervix are collected and spread onto a microscope slide and then examined for pre-malignant or malignant changes.

Thyroid Blood Tests
Blood tests used to determine the adequacy of the levels of thyroid hormones.

Total Hip Replacement
In this surgical procedure, the diseased cartilage and bone of the hip joint is replaced with artificial material.

Total Knee Replacement
In this surgical procedure, the diseased knee joint is replaced with artificial material.

Tuberculosis Skin Test (PPD Skin Test)
This skin test determines if someone has developed an immune response to the bacterium that causes tuberculosis.

Ultrasound
A radiology technique using high- frequency sound waves to produce images of the organs and structures of the body.