Question 73

Glucose and triglycerides are appropriate for a fasting specimen.

Fasting blood tests are critical for accurate measurement of certain substances in the blood. Glucose and triglycerides are both commonly tested after fasting, as their levels can be significantly affected by recent food intake.

A) Glucose and triglycerides

This option is correct because both glucose and triglycerides are best measured in a fasting state. Fasting helps ensure that the results reflect baseline levels without the interference of recent meals, which can elevate these substances.

B) BUN and alkaline phosphatase

BUN (blood urea nitrogen) can be measured without fasting, as it is not significantly influenced by food intake in the short term. Alkaline phosphatase levels are also typically stable regardless of fasting status, making this pair unsuitable for fasting requirements.

C) Creatinine and total protein

Creatinine levels do not require fasting for accurate measurement, as they are not significantly affected by recent food intake. Total protein levels similarly do not necessitate fasting, rendering this pair inappropriate for fasting specimens.

D) Lactate dehydrogenase and albumin

Both lactate dehydrogenase and albumin levels can be measured without fasting. They are not influenced by food consumption in the way glucose and triglycerides are, thus this option does not meet the criteria for fasting tests.

Conclusion

The correct choice, glucose and triglycerides, is essential for fasting blood tests as both require a baseline measurement to avoid fluctuations caused by food. In contrast, the other options involve tests that do not necessitate fasting, making them unsuitable for the specific requirement of the question.