Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra: Introduction, Principle, Procedure, Result-Interpretation, Uses, and Keynotes

GeneXpert Dx System software interface displaying a completed diagnostic result for an Xpert MTB-RIF Ultra assay

Introduction Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra is an automated diagnostic test designed for the rapid and simultaneous detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) and resistance to rifampin (RIF). It is a second-generation assay developed by Cepheid to provide significantly higher sensitivity than the original Xpert MTB/RIF, particularly for …

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IGRA (Interferon-Gamma Release Assay) Test-Introduction, Principle, Test Requirement, Procedure, Result-Interpretation, and Keynotes

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 …

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Coccidioides-Antigen Testing: Introduction, Purpose, How it works, When it’s used, Types of antigen tests, Limitation, and More

Introduction Coccidioides antigen testing, used to diagnose coccidioidomycosis (also known as valley fever),  detects the presence of fungal antigens in bodily fluids like urine, serum, or cerebrospinal fluid. This aids in faster and more accurate diagnosis, especially in immunocompromised individuals or those with severe disease.  …

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Non-HDL Cholesterol Test: Introduction, Test Result, Unit, Reference Range, Test Methods, Clinical Significance, and Keynotes

Non-HDL Cholesterol Test: Introduction, Test Result, Unit, Reference Range, Test Methods, Clinical Significance, and Keynotes

Introduction The Non-HDL Cholesterol test measures all cholesterol minus HDL. Additionally, it assesses atherogenic lipoproteins. Furthermore, it helps evaluate cardiovascular risk. Moreover, clinicians use it to guide therapy. Test Result The test result shows the non-HDL cholesterol value. Additionally, it indicates total atherogenic lipoprotein concentration. …

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Potassium Blood Test-Introduction, Test Result, Unit, Reference Range, Test Methods, Clinical Significance, and Keynotes

Potassium Blood Test-Introduction, Test Result, Unit, Reference Range, Test Methods, Clinical Significance, and Keynotes

Introduction The potassium blood test measures the concentration of potassium in your bloodstream. In addition, this essential electrolyte supports muscle function and nerve signaling. However, doctors often include this test in routine health checkups. Moreover, potassium imbalance may affect your heart rhythm and overall wellness. …

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Streptococcus gallolyticus – Introduction, Morphology, Pathogenicity, Lab Diagnosis, Treatment, Prevention, and Keynote

Streptococcus gallolytucus in a wet mount of culture microscopy at a magnification of 1600X

Introduction Streptococcus gallolyticus is a Gram-positive bacterium. It belongs to the Streptococcus bovis group. This bacterium often inhabits the gastrointestinal tract. S. gallolyticus can cause endocarditis and bacteremia. Moreover, it is associated with colorectal cancer. Researchers use it to study host-pathogen interactions. Identifying S. gallolyticus …

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D-Dimer Test-Introduction- Test Result, Unit, Reference Range, Method, and Keynotes

D-Dimer Test-Result, Unit, Reference Range, and Method

Introduction The D-Dimer test measures a substance released when a blood clot breaks up. It helps diagnose clotting disorders. Doctors often order this test to rule out conditions like deep vein thrombosis. It is also useful for diagnosing pulmonary embolism. A high D-Dimer level indicates …

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Trichomonas vaginalis: Introduction, Morphology, Pathogenicity, Lab Diagnosis, Treatment, Prevention, and Keynotes

Introduction Trichomonas vaginalis is a parasitic protozoan that causes the sexually transmitted infection (STI) known as trichomoniasis. This unicellular organism primarily infects the urogenital tract in both men and women. Trichomoniasis is one of the most common curable STIs worldwide. Here are some key points …

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