Question 12

Glucose and triglycerides are the appropriate pairs of blood tests for a fasting specimen.

Fasting specimens are typically required for tests that measure glucose and triglycerides to ensure accurate results, as food intake can significantly influence their levels in the blood.

A) Glucose and triglycerides

This option is correct because both glucose and triglycerides require fasting conditions for accurate measurement. Elevated levels of glucose can indicate diabetes, while triglycerides are essential for assessing cardiovascular risk and can be affected by recent food intake.

B) BUN and alkaline phosphatase

This option is incorrect. While BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen) can be measured without fasting, alkaline phosphatase does not have a specific fasting requirement. Therefore, this pair is not appropriate for a fasting specimen.

C) Creatinine and total protein

This option is also incorrect. Creatinine testing does not typically require fasting, and total protein levels are generally stable regardless of food intake. Thus, this combination is not suitable for a fasting specimen.

D) Lactate dehydrogenase and albumin

This option is incorrect as well. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) can be affected by various factors and does not require fasting, while albumin levels remain relatively constant. Consequently, this pair is not appropriate for fasting conditions.

Conclusion

The combination of glucose and triglycerides is the only pair that requires fasting for accurate assessment, making it the correct choice. Other options either do not require fasting or include tests that are influenced by food intake, thereby failing to meet the criteria for fasting specimens.