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Introduction An Interferon-Gamma Release Assay (IGRA) is a modern blood test used to identify if a person is infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It is primarily used to detect latent TB infection (LTBI) and to aid in the diagnosis of active tuberculosis disease. Principle The test is based on the fact …
Introduction The Line Probe Assay (LPA) is a rapid molecular diagnostic test used to detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) and its resistance to anti-tuberculosis drugs. It identifies specific mutations in the genes associated with drug resistance by hybridizing amplified DNA onto membrane strips. The LPA is a …
Introduction Molecular typing of fungi uses DNA-based methods to identify species and differentiate strains for clinical, epidemiological, and environmental studies. Key techniques include Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) sequencing (the standard for identification), Multilocus Sequence Typing (MLST), restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP), and Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS). These methods are crucial for tracking …
Introduction HiCrome™ Candida Differential Agar is a specialized chromogenic medium used in clinical microbiology for the rapid isolation and presumptive identification of Candida species. The medium is designed to differentiate between major Candida species—Candida albicans, Candida tropicalis, Candida krusei (Pichia kudriavzevii), and Candida glabrata—based on colony color and morphology within 48 hours. …
Introduction Pathogenicity While typically considered a low-grade commensal, it causes serious infections primarily in immunocompromised patients or those with indwelling medical devices. Lab Diagnosis Treatment There are no official clinical breakpoints, so treatment is often guided by expert consultation and raw Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) values. Prevention Keynotes …
Introduction Clinical Significance Keynotes Further Readings
Introduction Lactococcus garvieae is a Gram-positive, catalase-negative, non-spore-forming coccus, typically arranged in pairs or short chains. It belongs to the lactic acid bacteria group and is well known as a major pathogen in fish (lactococcosis). In humans, it is an emerging opportunistic pathogen, increasingly recognized …
1. Introduction Head and neck cancers (HNCs) are a heterogeneous group of malignancies arising from the upper aerodigestive tract, including the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, nasal cavity, paranasal sinuses, salivary glands, and thyroid. The majority are squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) originating from mucosal epithelium. These …