Theory & Practices of Clinical Laboratory
clinicalsci 
Strongyloides stercoralis, commonly known as the threadworm, is a soil-transmitted intestinal nematode capable of causing chronic and potentially life-threatening infections. While less prevalent than other intestinal nematodes, it remains a significant global health concern, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Latin America, and Africa. Estimates suggest that 30–100 …
Nipah virus (NiV) is a highly pathogenic zoonotic virus that poses a significant global health threat due to its high mortality rate, human-to-human transmission, and the lack of approved vaccines or antiviral therapies. Since its discovery in Malaysia and Singapore (1998-1999), NiV has caused recurrent outbreaks in South and Southeast …
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, …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
Introduction Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a significant clinical condition characterized by the formation of blood clots within the deep venous system, most commonly in the lower extremities. It poses serious health risks, primarily due to the potential for thrombus dislodgment leading to pulmonary embolism (PE), a life-threatening complication. Epidemiological …
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 in …