Blood Tests
A blood test is an investigation that allows your dermatologist to get diagnostic information by extracting a small sample of blood, and sending it to a specialist laboratory for analysis.
After the analysis has been completed, the results are sent to the clinic and interpreted by the dermatologist, who will use them either to confirm a suspected diagnosis; or to make a diagnosis in the event that the symptoms of your skin condition could be the result of multiple conditions. Blood tests may also be necessary to ensure it is appropriate for you to continue with certain treatments.
What is the Benefit of a Blood Test?
A blood test allows the dermatologist to get further diagnostic information with which to make a diagnosis of a skin condition and determine a course of treatment.
Some treatments are not suitable for patients who have underlying medical conditions, or they might only be suitable in the event that certain natural indicators (known as biomarkers) are present at certain levels.
A blood test is often the sole means of ascertaining and analysing the levels of these biomarkers, so they may need to be conducted during the course of a particular treatment.
A blood test is suitable for patients who require further investigation to determine a skin condition, and/or whose treatment of a skin condition require that certain biomarkers are closely monitored.
What is the Process of a Blood Test?
It is important to follow any instructions you are given prior to a blood test, as otherwise the results could be inaccurate.
Some people may be uncomfortable or anxious about needles, or have a history of reactions like dizziness or fainting when they have previously had injections or IV treatment. If this is the case, it will be helpful to advise the clinic when booking your appointment, or the person obtaining the blood sample beforehand, so that they can make you more comfortable.
The dermatology specialist nurse may perform the blood test, and they will usually take a sample from the arm, either inside the elbow or near the wrist, where the veins are near to the surface. In small children, samples may be taken from the back of the hand instead.
A tight band, known as a tourniquet, is tied around the arm, which causes slight swelling by temporarily slowing down the blood flow in the area, and makes it easier to obtain the blood sample.
Next, the area will be cleaned with an antiseptic wipe, to reduce the risk of infection.
A needle attached to a syringe is inserted into the vein, in order to draw the blood sample, and most people experience this as a slight pricking sensation, or a sharp scratch – but generally, a blood test is not painful.
Once the sample has been obtained, the tourniquet will be released and the needle removed. Pressure will be applied to the skin with a cotton wool pad, as this will help to stem the bleeding, and then a plaster will be applied to keep the tiny wound clean.
Usually the patient can go home straight away after, unless they are experiencing dizziness, in which case they may remain in the waiting room until they are feeling better.
The sample is labelled and sent to the laboratory for testing, which may involve looking at it under a microscope, or testing its reaction to certain chemicals, depending on what is being tested.
The results of some blood samples are available more quickly than others, but the dermatologist will advise how quickly you can expect to have the results – usually within 1-2 weeks at most.
You will be able to go home the same day, and will receive information on follow-up care, which may include applying cream or taking antibiotic tablets.
BOOK NOW SEND ENQUIRY CALL: 0118 466 0935What are the Risks and Complications of a Blood Test?
A skin biopsy is suitable for patients who have undergone a consultation with the dermatologist, and are subsequently needing the diagnosis of a particular skin condition confirmed, so that they can undergo treatment.
It is extremely rare to have complications from a blood test, but in most cases they would be minor – such as bleeding and bruising.
If you have underlying medical conditions, or are regularly taking medications, it is essential that you let your dermatologist know when they take your medical history during consultation, since they might mean you are more susceptible to bleeding, dizziness or bruising.
Some people may experience more dizziness than others, and it may be beneficial to rest in the waiting room or have a cup of tea following your blood test until this regulates.
You may have more or less bruising afterward than other people who’ve had a blood test - this is usually dependant on how your skin typically bruises, but this may also be influenced by underlying health conditions or medications, which the dermatologist will advise you about beforehand.
What is the Recovery Time and Outcome for a Blood Test?
Since only a small amount of blood is drawn, blood tests don’t typically cause any significant side effects for people who are generally in good health.
There may be slight bruising and tenderness in the days after a blood test, and some people are prone to more visible bruising than others, but they should fade within 5-7 days.
Blood test results can usually be obtained over the phone, but you may need to attend further appointments, or regular follow-up appointments with the dermatologist for the treatment of your skin condition.
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