Serum salicylate is used to evaluate any toxicity of the drug.
More information
Salicylates are a group of drugs including, inter alia, acetylsalicylic acid (Aspirin), salicylic acid, sodium salicylate and methyl salicylate. Salicylates have analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory action as well as the ability to inhibit platelet aggregation (aspirin alone). Salicylates are absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, metabolized in the liver and excreted in the urine, with a half-life of 2-3 hours for short use and 15-30 hours for chronic use.
Symptoms of salicylate poisoning include oxemia, alkalosis, convulsions, dizziness, hyperactivity, hyperglycaemia, hyperventilation, hyperthermia, ketosis, nausea, respiratory arrest, tinnitus, vomiting.
Determination of blood salicylates is useful for monitoring treatment or when there is a suspicion of poisoning with salicylates.
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. Correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
