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MLPAO Clinical Chemistry Fundamentals Flashcards

6 cards from real MLPAO practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 6 MLPAO Clinical Chemistry Fundamentals flashcards as text

  1. In the measurement of serum electrolytes, which technology uses ion-selective electrodes (ISE)?

    Answer: Potentiometry

    Potentiometry is the electrochemical technique that uses ion-selective electrodes to measure electrolyte concentrations. ISE technology measures the electrical potential difference generated across a membrane selective for a specific ion, providing direct measurement of ion activity.

  2. What is the clinical significance of an elevated serum amylase level?

    Answer: Acute pancreatitis

    Elevated serum amylase is most commonly associated with acute pancreatitis. Amylase is released from damaged pancreatic acinar cells into the bloodstream. However, amylase can also be elevated in other conditions such as salivary gland disorders and intestinal obstruction.

  3. Which specimen type is preferred for most clinical chemistry analyses?

    Answer: Serum from a red-top tube

    Serum collected in a red-top (no additive) tube or serum separator tube (SST) is preferred for most clinical chemistry analyses. Serum lacks fibrinogen and clotting factors, providing a cleaner matrix that minimizes interference with many analytical methods.

  4. What is the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation used to calculate in clinical chemistry?

    Answer: Blood pH from bicarbonate and pCO2

    The Henderson-Hasselbalch equation calculates blood pH from the ratio of bicarbonate concentration to dissolved CO2 (pCO2). The equation is pH = pK + log([HCO3-]/[0.03 × pCO2]), and it is fundamental to understanding acid-base physiology.

  5. Which condition is characterized by elevated serum bilirubin with a predominantly unconjugated (indirect) fraction?

    Answer: Hemolytic anemia

    Hemolytic anemia causes elevated unconjugated (indirect) bilirubin because the excessive breakdown of red blood cells overwhelms the liver's capacity to conjugate bilirubin. In contrast, obstructive and hepatocellular conditions typically elevate conjugated (direct) bilirubin.

  6. What does the anion gap calculation help identify?

    Answer: Metabolic acidosis etiology

    The anion gap helps differentiate causes of metabolic acidosis. It is calculated as Na+ - (Cl- + HCO3-), with a normal range of approximately 8-12 mmol/L. An elevated anion gap suggests accumulation of unmeasured acids such as lactate, ketoacids, or toxins.