Nagler Reaction Test: Principle, Procedure & Interpretation

The Nagler reaction, also known as the Nagler test, is a classical yet clinically significant phenotypic laboratory test used for the identification and confirmation of Clostridium perfringens based on its ability to produce lecithinase C (alpha toxin). The test relies on the neutralization of lecithinase activity by a specific antitoxin, …

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Serum Phosphate Test: Principle, Procedure & Clinical Significance

Serum inorganic phosphate, or serum phosphate, is a crucial electrolyte involved in phosphate homeostasis. It plays vital roles in bone mineralization, ATP energy metabolism, nucleic acid synthesis, cell signaling, and oxygen delivery in red blood cells via 2,3-diphosphoglycerate (2,3-DPG). About 85% of total body phosphate is stored in the skeleton …

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Reticulocyte Count: Procedure, Significance & Interpretation

In the field of clinical hematology, the reticulocyte count stands as a pivotal diagnostic tool that offers invaluable insights into the bone marrow’s erythropoietic activity. Reticulocytes are immature red blood cells (RBCs) that represent the transitional stage between nucleated erythroid precursors in the bone marrow and mature erythrocytes in the …

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Laboratory Diagnosis of Leishmaniasis

Introduction Leishmaniasis, a vector-borne disease caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Leishmania, is transmitted through bites of infected female sandflies. As a neglected tropical disease, it affects millions globally, necessitating accurate laboratory diagnosis for effective management. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates 12 million people are affected, with approximately …

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Laboratory Examination of Synovial Fluid

Introduction Synovial fluid is a clear, viscoelastic liquid within synovial (diarthrodial) joints, crucial for lubrication and joint health. Arthrocentesis, the aspiration of synovial fluid, serves as a “liquid biopsy” that aids diagnosis and treatment of joint diseases by relieving pressure and providing diagnostic clues for infections, crystal arthropathies, inflammatory, and …

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Rapid Immunoassays: Principle, Mechanism and Applications

Introduction Rapid immunoassays (RIAs) are a class of diagnostic tests designed to detect specific molecules such as antigens, antibodies, hormones, or drugs in clinical samples quickly and accurately. They have revolutionized point-of-care testing (POCT) by providing timely diagnostic information outside traditional laboratory settings. The rapidity, cost-effectiveness, and ease of use …

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VDRL and RPR Test: Procedures, Interpretation, Clinical Significance

VDRL and RPR antibody titers used to monitor syphilis treatment response

Introduction Syphilis remains a globally relevant sexually transmitted infection (STI), despite modern prevention and treatment strategies. Early detection and timely treatment are essential to prevent long-term complications such as neurosyphilis, cardiovascular syphilis, or congenital transmission. The VDRL (Venereal Disease Research Laboratory) and RPR (Rapid Plasma Reagin) tests are cornerstone tools …

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Tissue Processing in Histopathology Laboratory

Tissue processing is a critical technique in histopathology that prepares tissue specimens for microscopic examination. Through this meticulous process, samples are preserved, allowing pathologists to examine cellular structures for the diagnosis of various diseases. Introduction What is Tissue Processing? Tissue processing in histopathology refers to the systematic procedure of preparing …

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