Which substances are commonly analyzed in clinical chemistry?

In the field of clinical chemistry, the primary focus is on the analysis of bodily fluids, particularly blood serum, plasma, and urine, to assess various chemical substances that are vital for diagnosing and monitoring health conditions. Electrolytes and biochemical markers are routinely analyzed because they provide essential information about a patient’s metabolic state, organ function, and overall health.

Electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate, play crucial roles in maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contraction. Abnormal levels can indicate conditions like dehydration, kidney disease, or hormonal imbalances.

Biochemical markers, including enzymes, hormones, and metabolites, can reveal information about specific organ functions or disease processes. For instance, elevated levels of certain enzymes might indicate liver damage, while hormone levels can help in diagnosing endocrine disorders.

The other options, including DNA and RNA analysis, focus on genetic testing and molecular biology, which, while important, fall more under the realm of genetics and molecular diagnostics rather than clinical chemistry. Microbes and viruses relate more to microbiological testing and infectious disease diagnosis. Analyzing tissues and cells pertains to histology and cytology, which are distinct from the biochemical analyses typical in clinical chemistry. Thus, the correct choice emphasizes