COMPENDIUM ON FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE - Flipbook - Page 877
strategically timed testing to identify subclinical imbalances
before they progress to diagnosable conditions. This proactive
approach allows for earlier intervention and more effective
prevention strategies [3, 4].
Initial Assessment: Essential Baseline Testing
Comprehensive Blood Chemistry Panel
The cornerstone of functional assessment begins with a
comprehensive blood chemistry panel that goes well beyond
standard conventional panels. This expanded testing serves as the
foundation for identifying metabolic imbalances, nutrient
deficiencies, and early signs of dysfunction [5, 6].
Complete Blood Count with Differential
This provides critical information about immune function, infection
status, and potential underlying inflammatory processes that may
be driving symptoms.
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel
This expanded panel assesses liver function, kidney function,
electrolyte balance, and blood sugar regulation4providing a
window into essential metabolic processes [7].
Lipid Panel with Advanced Markers
Beyond basic cholesterol, this should include LDL and HDL particle
numbers and sizes, Lp(a), apolipoprotein B, and other advanced
cardiovascular risk markers [8, 9].
Complete Thyroid Panel
This must go beyond the conventional TSH test to include Free T3,
Free T4, Reverse T3, and thyroid antibodies (TPO, TG) to assess both
thyroid function and potential autoimmunity [10].
877
