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Introduction Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) is a diagnostic procedure used to collect specimens from the lower respiratory tract, particularly from the alveolar spaces. It is performed by instilling sterile saline into a segment of the lung via a bronchoscope and then aspirating it back. Gram staining …
Introduction Direct microscopic examination is one of the most rapid and inexpensive diagnostic methods for detecting fungal elements in clinical specimens. Potassium hydroxide (KOH) smear is a routine technique in mycology that helps visualize fungal structures such as hyphae, yeast cells, and sclerotic bodies directly …
Introduction A throat swab Gram stain is a rapid, initial diagnostic test performed on specimens collected from the oropharynx or tonsillar region. It helps to identify bacterial flora, pathogens, and inflammatory response. While culture and molecular methods provide definitive diagnosis, Gram staining offers early guidance …
Introduction Unlike molds, yeasts are the most commonly recovered fungi in blood cultures. Candidemia is among the leading causes of bloodstream infections in immunocompromised and critically ill patients. Yeasts such as Candida, Cryptococcus, and Trichosporon are responsible for significant morbidity and mortality. Blood culture positivity …
Introduction Leucine crystals are rare urinary findings that typically appear in patients with severe liver disease, such as advanced cirrhosis, severe hepatitis, or metabolic disorders like maple syrup urine disease. They form in acidic urine and indicate a disturbance in amino acid metabolism. Identification Features …
Introduction Sulfonamide crystals are drug-induced urinary crystals that appear in patients receiving sulfonamide (sulfa) therapy, particularly when urine is acidic, concentrated, or dehydrated. They occur due to precipitation of unmetabolized sulfonamide compounds in urine, especially older drugs like sulfadiazine, which are less soluble in acidic …
Introduction Urate crystals, also referred to as uric acid crystals, are metabolic by-products of purine metabolism found in urine. They are frequently observed during urine microscopy, especially in patients with altered pH, dehydration, or metabolic disorders. Their presence can be physiological in concentrated urine or …
Introduction Ascitic fluid microscopy is a laboratory diagnostic method used to examine peritoneal (ascitic) fluid obtained via paracentesis. It helps in identifying cells, microorganisms, and crystals that provide clues about underlying causes such as infection, malignancy, liver disease, or systemic disorders. Principle The principle of …