Why is this procedure done?
Polymerase chain reaction is also known as PCR. This test is able to copy small parts of your genes. It helps doctors learn about genes. With this test, doctors can learn about diseases that are caused by changes to genes. They can also learn about infections. ‚
The doctor may order a PCR test to: ‚
- Learn more about a certain illness.
- Get information on genes involved in an illness.
- Go along with other tests.
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What will the results be?
- The doctor will look at the results of your test. The doctor may learn that you have signs of an illness that needs treatment.
- Your doctor may order another test. This will help check a result that is not normal or to learn more about a diagnosis.
- The doctor will talk with you about treatment.
What happens before the procedure?
- A PCR test can be done on many kinds of fluids or tissues. Talk with your doctor to find out more about what will be tested.
- Talk to your doctor about:
- All the drugs you are taking
- If you have any bleeding problems
What happens during the procedure?
You may have a PCR blood test. If so, it will only take a few minutes. You will be awake the whole time. You will have a small amount of blood taken from you with a needle. You may have a small amount of pain. The needle will be taken out and a bandage will be put on your skin. The lab will test your blood. ‚
Other kinds of PCR tests may take longer and will be different. Talk to your doctor about what kind of test you will have. ‚
What happens after the procedure?
Blood Test: ‚
- You may want to sit quietly for a few minutes before standing up. This will help keep you from feeling dizzy after the test.
- Put pressure with your other hand where the needle was. This will help with bruising and bleeding.
- Ask your doctor when you will get the results.
Other tests: ‚
- Talk to your doctor about what other tests you may need.
What care is needed at home?
This is based on the kind of test you had. If you had a blood test, you may be able to go back to your everyday activities when you go home. Ask your doctor if any special care is needed when you go home. ‚
What follow-up care is needed?
Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. This test will help your doctor understand if you have a problem. Together you can make a plan for more care. ‚
What problems could happen?
- Pain
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Feeling dizzy
- Infection
Where can I learn more?
National Human Genome Research Institute ‚
http://www.genome.gov/10000207 ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚