Since the beginning of the year, the Research Department at Akureyri Hospital (SAk) has introduced numerous new biochemical tests, enabling faster and more accurate diagnostics for patients in North Iceland. These tests are conducted using a new, advanced CobasPro analyzer and include analyses of blood, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid. The following tests have been implemented this year:

• S-Insulin – Measures insulin levels in the blood, crucial for diagnosing and monitoring diabetes.

• S-Lipase – An enzyme test that aids in diagnosing pancreatitis and other digestive disorders.

• Urine analyses – Various measurements of urine composition, providing information on kidney function and fluid balance.

• U-Phosphate, U-Urea, U-Magnesium, and U-Calcium – Important for assessing metabolism, kidney function, and mineral balance in the body.

Cerebrospinal fluid analyses:

• CSF-IgG – Measures antibodies in cerebrospinal fluid, used in diagnosing diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS).

• CSF-Albumin – A protein test that may indicate blood-brain barrier function and various neurological disorders.

According to staff at the research department, great care has been taken to implement these tests using high-quality procedures and validated measurement methods. The goal is to ensure first-class diagnostic services for patients using SAk.

“Having these tests available here in Akureyri is of immense importance,” says Agnes Heiða Skúladóttir, biomedical scientist at SAk’s research department.

Inga Stella Pétursdóttir, head of the department, agrees and adds: “We can now deliver faster results and better service without sending samples to Reykjavík. This strengthens the hospital’s independence and improves treatment responsiveness.”

The implementation of these tests has also saved time and costs, while reducing pressure on larger laboratories in the capital area. These changes enhance local specialization and expertise, which is key to providing strong healthcare services in rural areas. The new tests are part of the ongoing development of SAk’s research work, and the staff remains open to innovations that support modern, safe, and accessible healthcare for all Icelanders.