A laboratory test result can be below or above the reference values without the person being ill. Reference values are defined by studying a large group of healthy individuals.
A laboratory test result can be below or above the reference values without the person being ill. A slightly abnormal value does not necessarily directly indicate a disease. On the other hand, it is possible that a certain disease does not show up in laboratory tests as abnormal values.
Different laboratories use different reference values due to differences in testing and analysis methods. For this reason, the results from different laboratories cannot always be directly compared. Puhti’s tests are primarily taken and analyzed in Mehiläinen’s laboratories, and thus Mehiläinen’s reference values are used. (A few tests are sent for analysis to our partner laboratories.)
Reference values also vary according to factors such as age and gender. Therefore, there are different reference values for women and men and for different ages in the tests. Also, for example, pregnancy or certain medications can affect what value can be considered “normal,” even if the result is not within the reference values. The reference values for certain tests can also vary according to the time of day or, for example, the menstrual cycle.
Sometimes a doctor may provide specific target values to aim for. For example, a diabetic has specific target values for cholesterol. These target values are stricter than normal. If you have received your own recommended values from your doctor, follow them. Puhti’s report presents the results compared to the reference and target values of a healthy population.
Fasting also affects reference values; for example, in cholesterol tests, we have moved to non-fasting tests, which has changed the reference values. Puhti’s report provides additional information on the reference values for both situations.
Reference values refer to the range of results, or reference range, within which a result is considered normal. In some tests, such as cholesterol measurements, target values are discussed instead of reference values.
As the name suggests, these are indicative values. Reference values are not set in stone limits that directly indicate disease or health. Some individuals may have results within the reference values (often close to the upper or lower limit), even if they have a disease. Conversely, a result may be slightly higher or lower than the reference value, even if the person is healthy.
Reference values are defined by studying a large group of healthy individuals. The obtained results are used to calculate reference values so that 95 percent of healthy people’s values fall within the reference range. Thus, about 5 percent may have results outside the reference values, even if they are healthy.
You can access laboratory tests through Puhti without a doctor’s referral. However, it is advisable to consult a doctor if there is suspicion of illness, symptoms, or concerns about your health. Puhti’s tests are ordered online, and you can then go for sampling at Mehiläinen’s laboratory. You will receive the results on the Oma Puhti report, where values are presented visually compared to reference values and with additional information.
On Puhti’s result report, the result is always presented as a numerical value, but also with a red and green representation. Red indicates that the result is outside the reference values. Green means the result is within the reference values. Some tests (such as ferritin) also have a yellow area, indicating a slight deviation from the reference values. The result report also explains what the specific test measures. When the same value is measured multiple times, the results are updated in the same visual representation, making it easy to track your progress.
If necessary, you can order a doctor’s consultation separately through Puhti’s result report. Health concerns can be discussed in chat, at a traditional appointment at the medical clinic, or even by phone; Mehiläinen’s experts are happy to help. The results of laboratory tests taken through Puhti are also transmitted to Oma Mehiläinen and Kanta.
It is advisable to discuss the results with a doctor if they raise questions. In such a situation, it is good to review the results with a doctor promptly.
Basic blood count is a study comprising several component examinations. It measures the blood hemoglobin concentration and calculates blood cells: white blood cells (leukocytes), red blood cells (erythrocytes), and platelets (thrombocytes). Additionally, indices describing red blood cells are calculated.
The difference between the complete blood count and the basic blood count is that the CBC also includes the total number of platelets and the differential white blood cell count.
Article updated:
25 April 2025