sputum sample

Xpert MTB-XDR: Introduction, Principle, Procedure, Result-Interpretation, Uses, and Keynotes

by
The image shows a GeneXpert software interface displaying an Xpert MTB/XDR test result with M. tuberculosis (MTB) detected and a specific drug resistance profile.Key Findings:MTB DETECTED: Positive for Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex.Low FLQ Resistance DETECTED: Indicates low-level resistance to fluoroquinolones (e.g., levofloxacin or moxifloxacin).Resistance NOT DETECTED: No mutations were found for isoniazid (INH), amikacin (AMK), kanamycin (KAN), capreomycin (CAP), or ethionamide (ETH).This result is consistent with a pre-XDR-TB diagnosis, as there is resistance to fluoroquinolones but susceptibility to second-line injectables.

Introduction The Xpert MTB/XDR assay is an advanced molecular diagnostic tool designed by Cepheid to rapidly detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) and its resistance to multiple first- and second-line drugs. Launched in 2021, it is categorized as a “low complexity” automated nucleic acid amplification test …

Read more

Acinetobacter haemolyticus-Introduction, Morphology, Pathogenicity, Lab Diagnosis, Treatment, Prevention, and Keynotes

by
Acinetobacter haemolyticus growth on CLED agar

Introduction Acinetobacter haemolyticus is an aerobic, non-fermenting bacterium found in nature and hospital environments. It belongs to the Acinetobacter genus, frequently causing healthcare-associated infections. It is generally considered less virulent than Acinetobacter baumannii but is increasingly recognized in human infections.  Morphology Pathogenicity Lab Diagnosis Treatment Prevention Keynotes Further Readings

Fungal Elements in KOH Mount of Sputum Microscopy-Introduction, Fungal Elements Observed in Sputum KOH Mount, Applications, and Keynotes

by
Fungal Elements in KOH Mount of Sputum Microscopy at a magnification of 1600X

Introduction KOH mount of sputum is a rapid, direct microscopic technique used to detect fungal elements in the respiratory tract. A 10–20% Potassium Hydroxide (KOH) solution digests mucus, epithelial cells, and debris in sputum, while preserving the chitin-rich fungal cell walls, making them appear clear, …

Read more

Presence of Numerous Pus Cells Without Detectable Microbes in Gram-Stained Sputum: Introduction, Diagnostic Implications, and Clinical Considerations

by
Presence of Numerous Pus Cells Without Detectable Microbes in Gram-Stained Sputum: Introduction, Diagnostic Implications, and Clinical Considerations

Introduction Gram staining is a routine diagnostic tool for respiratory infections. It reveals bacteria in sputum samples. Occasionally, Gram staining shows numerous pus cells but no microbes. This finding raises several clinical questions and concerns. Pus cells indicate an inflammatory response. They suggest a possible …

Read more