Diagnosis of Vibrio cholerae Laboratory diagnosis of Vibrio cholerae; the bacteria responsible for cholera, and identifying the causative species, plays a great role in effective treatment and controlling outbreaks. Here is the breakdown of what happens in the laboratory for Cholera to be confirmed. Sample Collection The first step in diagnosing cholera involves collecting stool […]
Author Archives: Ifeoma Ofor
02
Sep
Sep
HPV vs. PAP Smear: Their differences and Interconnection in Cervical screening. Whenever cervical screening is mentioned, the terms “HPV” and “Pap smear” often pop up. Then you will now hear some people using the terms interchangeably as though, they mean the same thing. They do not! However, they are distinct screening tests for cervical cancer, […]
02
Sep
Sep
Introducing Cholera In a world where science has advanced and healthcare interventions are almost real-time, one wonders why we still hear of outbreaks of Vibrio cholerae. It simply means that people, (and by people I mean down to the locals) are not aware of the relevant information needed to avoid such incidents or at least […]
28
Aug
Aug
HPV (Human Papilloma virus) HPV refers to a group of viruses, with over 200 types identified, of which about 40 can infect the genital area. It is a double stranded DNA virus that causes cellular changes to epithelial cells. HPV is transmitted from one person to another via sexual contacts; including and not subjected […]
26
Aug
Aug
Laboratory Safety Protocols These include the safety guidelines for every staff in the laboratory. Awareness and compliance with safety standards help lower incident rates in the laboratory and health facilities. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Gloves: Always wear gloves to protect the hands from chemicals and biohazards. Lab Coats: Wear lab coats to shield your body […]
22
Aug
Aug
LIQUID-BASED CYTOLOGY: CERVICAL CANCER SCREENING TEST INTRODUCTION Liquid-Based Cytology (LBC) is an advanced method of preparing cervical cell samples for cytological examination, particularly for Pap smears. It enables cells to be suspended in a monolayer, therefore providing a better morphological assessment, This technique has largely replaced the conventional Pap smears in many labs because it […]
21
Aug
Aug
Pap smear, a cervical screening technique. Introduction Pap smear shortened from Papanicolau test, is a cytological screening test used to check for cervical cancer and its precursors. The Pap smear process involves collecting cells from a patient’s cervix using a speculum for better visualization. Then a spatula, brush, or swab is used to collect cells […]
What you need to Know About Mpox
18
Aug
Aug
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox virus, was first identified in 1958 when outbreaks of a pox-like disease occurred in monkeys kept for research. The first human case was recorded in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Since then, the disease has been endemic in several Central and Western African countries. […]
18
Aug
Aug
The diagnosis of Monkeypox viral infection is a topic we can discuss since the virus has been making headlines recently. It’s not your everyday illness, and diagnosing it can be challenging. Historical Background of Monkeypox Before we get into the nitty-gritty of diagnosis, I must say that Monkeypox isn’t the new kid on the […]