Kim Joo-in Internal Medicine Clinic in Seomyeon, Busan offers a wide range of diagnostic tests in addition to general internal medicine consultations. This guide covers all 7 tests and vaccinations available at the clinic — what each one checks, who should get it, and what to expect. For questions or appointment inquiries, call 051-802-7550.
1. Pulmonary Function Test
- Measures: lung capacity, airway resistance
The pulmonary function test (spirometry) measures lung capacity and airway resistance with precise numbers. Even when a chest X-ray looks normal, this test can detect asthma, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), and reduced lung function at an early stage.
Who should get this test
- Chronic cough, shortness of breath, or wheezing
- Asthma or COPD diagnosis — for severity assessment or treatment monitoring
- Smokers or those exposed to occupational dust or chemicals
- Pre-surgical evaluation of respiratory risk
2. Ultrasound (Abdomen & Thyroid)
- Areas: abdomen (liver, gallbladder, pancreas, kidneys), thyroid
Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to visualize internal organs without radiation. It can check the size, shape, and structure of abdominal organs and detect thyroid nodules, fatty liver, gallstones, and cysts.
Who should get this test
- Persistent abdominal discomfort or digestive issues
- Suspected thyroid nodule or abnormality
- Fatty liver or liver disease concern
- Routine health checkup for abdominal organs
3. Upper Endoscopy
- Area: esophagus, stomach, duodenum
Upper endoscopy allows direct visualization of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. It is used to detect gastritis, peptic ulcers, acid reflux, H. pylori infection, and early gastric cancer.
Who should get this test
- Indigestion, heartburn, or upper abdominal pain that persists
- Family history of gastric cancer, or aged 40+ due for a checkup
- Post H. pylori treatment — to confirm eradication
- Eligible for national health checkup endoscopy
4. Arteriosclerosis Test
- Measures: pulse wave velocity (PWV), ankle-brachial index (ABI)
- No pain, no fasting required
The arteriosclerosis test measures arterial stiffness to assess vascular age and the degree of arterial hardening. Pulse wave velocity (PWV) reflects how stiff the artery walls are — higher values indicate more hardening.
Interpretation (PWV reference)
| Value | Assessment |
|---|---|
| Below 13.5 | Normal |
| 13.5 or above | Possible arteriosclerosis |
| 13.6 – 15.0 | Mild arteriosclerosis |
| Above 15.5 | Arteriosclerosis |
Who should get this test
- High blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol
- Smokers or those with a family history of cardiovascular disease, aged 40+
- Anyone wanting to know their vascular age
5. Allergy Test
- Panels: 108 respiratory and food allergy antigens
- No fasting required
The allergy test (MAST) checks IgE antibodies against 108 allergy antigens simultaneously through a blood draw. It screens for respiratory triggers (dust mites, pollen, pet dander, mold) and food allergens (milk, eggs, wheat, tree nuts) in one visit.
Who should get this test
- Allergic rhinitis, asthma, hives, or atopic dermatitis
- Seasonal runny nose, sneezing, or itchy eyes (spring / fall)
- Recurring unexplained skin reactions
- Anyone wanting to identify specific food or airborne allergies
6. Vitamin D Blood Test
- Normal: 30 ng/mL or above
- Deficient: 20 ng/mL or below
The Vitamin D blood test measures serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OH Vitamin D). Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption, immune regulation, and muscle function — yet the average Korean serum level is 16.1 ng/mL, far below the normal threshold of 30 ng/mL.
Korean studies show that 83% of men and 88% of women fall below the normal Vitamin D threshold of 30 ng/mL. Indoor lifestyles, widespread sunscreen use, and limited winter sunlight are the main causes.
Vitamin D level reference
| Serum level | Assessment |
|---|---|
| 30 ng/mL or above | Sufficient (normal) |
| 21 – 29 ng/mL | Insufficient |
| 20 ng/mL or below | Deficient |
Who should get this test
- Office workers with little sun exposure
- Chronic fatigue, muscle pain, or osteoporosis concerns
- Recurring low immunity
- Anyone wanting to check Vitamin D as part of a routine checkup
7. Tetanus Vaccination (Td / Tdap)
- Types: Td (tetanus & diphtheria), Tdap (+ pertussis)
- Booster: every 10 years after initial Tdap
- Walk-ins welcome during clinic hours
Tetanus is caused by bacteria found in soil and rust that enter the body through wounds and can cause severe muscle spasms and respiratory failure. Vaccination is the most reliable prevention, and booster immunity in adults gradually fades over time.
Adults who completed DTaP in childhood should get one Tdap dose, then Td every 10 years. If you sustain a wound and it has been more than 5 years since your last shot, visit the clinic promptly.
Who should get vaccinated
- Adults whose last tetanus shot was more than 10 years ago
- Anyone with a wound from rust, soil, or an animal bite
- Those planning pregnancy or currently pregnant (consult doctor first)
- Healthcare workers, military personnel, or those in high-risk occupations
Clinic Information
Kim Joo-in Internal Medicine Clinic
8F Cheongseok Building, 64 Seomyeon-ro, Busanjin-gu, Busan
5-minute walk from Seomyeon Station Exit 7
- Weekdays: 9:15 AM – 6:15 PM (Lunch break 12:50 – 1:50 PM)
- Saturday: 9:15 AM – 2:00 PM (no lunch break)
- Closed Sundays and public holidays
Phone inquiries & appointments: 051-802-7550 / 051-802-7552
Some tests (such as endoscopy) require advance booking or preparation. Call ahead to skip the wait.