BLOOD

tests may not be the best way to diagnose and monitor health conditions – doctors should analyse fluid between our cells instead, according to new research.

Interstitial fluid surrounds our cells, delivering nutrients and removing waste products.

Scientists in Georgia were able to use a custom-made machine to test the fluid, identifying compounds that could indicate disease – such as glucose, key in diagnosing diabetes.

The fluid tests are said to be less invasive than a blood test, using small stick-on patches loaded with micro-needles.