Description
Laboratory tests can help determine the cause of slow wound healing by measuring blood sugar, protein levels, and other indicators. Nutritional deficiencies with replacement can significanly aid in wound healing.
The following test are included:
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c)
Iron
Prealbumin
Selenium
Vitamin A
Vitamin C
Vitamin D
Zinc
Fasting not required.
Additional information about each test is listed below:
A complete blood count (CBC) is important when assessing slow wound healing because it can reveal potential underlying deficiencies in blood components like red blood cells (hemoglobin), platelets, and white blood cells (WBCs), which are all crucial for proper wound healing; low levels of any of these components can significantly impede the body's ability to repair damaged tissue and increase the risk of infection.
A comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) can be used to assess potential factors contributing to slow wound healing by checking parameters like blood glucose levels (for diabetes), albumin levels (for protein malnutrition), kidney function (BUN and creatinine), electrolytes, and liver function enzymes; all of which can impact the body's ability to repair wounds effectively.
High hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels are associated with delayed wound healing. HbA1c is a measure of average blood sugar levels over the past few months.
Iron deficiency or excess iron can both impair wound healing. Iron is a mineral that helps carry oxygen to the wound site, and it's also needed for collagen production.
Low prealbumin levels are associated with poor wound healing because they indicate poor nutritional status. Prealbumin is a nutritional marker that can help predict the risk of wound complications and the need for nutritional support.
Selenium may help wounds heal faster by reducing inflammation and promoting cell growth. Selenium is an antioxidant that can also help with stem cell proliferation.
Vitamin A can help wounds heal by increasing collagen production and stimulating the inflammatory response. Low levels of vitamin A can cause delayed wound healing and make a person more susceptible to infection.
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is important for wound healing and can help with slow healing. Low levels of vitamin C can contribute to impaired wound healing.
Low levels of vitamin D can slow wound healing. Vitamin D helps the body produce compounds that form new skin, and it also controls inflammation and infection.
Zinc deficiency can delay wound healing, while adequate zinc levels can help wounds heal faster. Zinc is important for tissue repair and regeneration because it's needed for collagen and protein synthesis, cell proliferation, and immune function.
