Sweet Victory

We had some blood drawn last week. Chris, myself, and two of our daughters. I selected the tests and paid for them online.

I ordered the tests through Direct Laboratory Services, found at directlabs.com. The service is currently aligned with LabCorp. While Direct Labs does not file insurance claims, CPT codes are provided for possible reimbursement. Our Comprehensive Wellness Panels cost $97.00. Chris' PSA test (Prostate Specific Antigen) cost $29. The PSA test is on sale this month in honor of Father's Day.

(For a humorous recounting of Chris' recent office visit that goes along with the PSA test, see his blog.)

Mycotoxin testing can also be ordered through Direct Labs. This is the same testing offered by RealTime Labs. The testing for aflatoxins, ochratoxins, and tricothescenes can be found under the "Allergy" heading. The aflatoxin test, for example, appears this way:

Aflatoxin Group, urine-RTL KIT

Aflatoxins are naturally occurring mycotoxins that are produced by many species of Aspergillus. The organisms that usually produce aflatoxins are Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. Aflatoxins are toxic and can be cancer producing.

High-level aflatoxin exposure produces an acute damage and cirrhosis of the liver as well as cancer of the liver.

I tested positive for aflatoxins in January 2009. My liver tested abnormal at the time. I was advised to pursue an ultrasound for possible cirrhosis of the liver. My bilirubin scores came back this week.

Completely normal.

Chris' PSA results were normal. Other results showed our bodies are still fighting this battle.

I'm celebrating this victory, however, armed with renewed determination. Reminded of the adage: "The harder the fight, the sweeter the victory."