Blood work

Correcting the Myth of Calcium Correction

By Dr. Janet Simons on June 26, 2019

Formulae to adjust total calcium for the albumin concentration should be abandoned. The use of these formulae overestimates ionized calcium in patients with hypoalbuminemia, causing false negatives for hypocalcemia and false positives for hypercalcemia. Measurement of ionized calcium is now relatively inexpensive and is available in most hospitals and many outpatient settings.

HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for individuals at risk for HIV infection

By Mark W. Hull MD MHSc on November 13, 2018

Over the last five years, on an ongoing basis, we have seen new HIV infections occurring in young gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (MSM). The majority of these individuals had had a prior negative HIV test within the last year, or were presenting with signs or symptoms supportive of an acute HIV infection, suggesting recent exposure and transmission of HIV infection, highlighting the need for novel HIV prevention strategies.

Elevated Lipoprotein (a) is a common reason for unexplained premature or recurrent coronary heart disease and stroke

By Dr. Gordon Francis on April 26, 2017

High Lp(a) is a major CVD risk factor that should be measured and acted upon in patients and families where there is history of premature CV events but lack of clear risk factors, and in patients with known CVD and recurrent events despite treatment to LDL-C target.

Cardiovascular outcomes and blood pressure, glucose, and cholesterol numbers

By James McCormack on September 16, 2015

Numerous observational studies have consistently shown in many (but not all) patient populations a correlation between people with higher blood pressure, glucose, and cholesterol numbers, and a greater risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks, strokes, and other unwanted outcomes.

HIV in Family Practice: testing & diagnosis

By Dr. Sarah Stone on October 7, 2013

As a family physician practicing at St Paul’s Immunodeficiency clinic in Vancouver, I have cared for patients living with HIV for over 10 years. Many patients are referred to the clinic at a stage of disease where treatment would have been beneficial if started earlier.

May I add an HIV test to your bloodwork today?

By Dr. Marisa Collins on July 31, 2012

Routine HIV testing for all adults is now recommended by Vancouver Coastal Health, Providence Health and the BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS.