Theory & Practices of Clinical Laboratory
Introduction In the realm 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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
The Platelet Neutralization Test (PNT) plays a pivotal role in diagnosing blood disorders, especially those related to platelet function. This test is crucial in the diagnosis of conditions like Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia (HIT), Autoimmune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), and other platelet dysfunction disorders. By identifying antiplatelet antibodies, the PNT helps clinicians determine …
Magnesium is a cofactor in over 600 enzymatic reactions, crucial for ATP production, DNA/RNA synthesis, ion transport, and neuromuscular signaling. Deficiency or excess can cause: Due to homeostatic buffering by intestinal absorption and renal excretion, serum magnesium can remain normal even when total body or tissue levels are low. Clinicians …
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