CLINICAL
CLINICAL MICROBIOLOGY
Read articles about clinical microbiology from Microbiologics’ experts and other field experts. Learn about clinical lab best practices, case files, identifying viral, fungal, bacterial, and parasitic agents contributing to the infectious process, and more.
Microbiology’s Wild West: Cannabis Lab Leaders Talk Testing Methods and Regulations
Cannabis has become a widely accepted form of medicine for patients across the United States. These patients, many of whom are immunocompromised, rely on testing laboratories to ensure the safety of the products they use. The lack of consistent and clear regulations...
7 Streak Plate Method Best Practices
Microbiologists use the streak plate method every day to isolate colonies. Streaking may seem like Microbiology 101, but bad habits can lead to errors and contamination. Follow these best practices to get your streaking technique down to a science. 1. Label first,...
Ask a CAP Inspector: When Should a Rapid Diagnostic System Be Recalibrated?
Q: When should I validate or recalibrate my rapid diagnostic system? A: With all the rules and regulations, it’s hard to know when a diagnostic system validation or recalibration is required. For most multiplex PCR testing instruments, the requirements are a bit...
Dear Stanley: CLSI M100–ED29:2019 Updates
Dear Stanley, I appreciated the CLSI M100 updates you shared 2018. Do you know of any changes made in the latest edition that will impact QC? Ashley from San Diego, CA Dear Ashley, I’m happy to provide a summary of the changes made to CLSI M100 M02 and M07M100 in...
LDT Oversight Deliberation Continues
Almost nine years ago, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) held a public meeting to discuss the oversight of laboratory developed tests (LDTs). As LDTs became more complex and integral to clinical diagnostics, the agency considered a risk-based approach for...
Clinical Case File Results: Enteric Pathogen
Last week, we asked you to determine which common food-borne pathogen, Escherichia coli or Salmonella spp., was causing the enteric infection described in our latest Clinical Case File. The results are in, and we’re proud to share we have some very savvy readers. Of...
Clinical Case File: Enteric Pathogen
Source: CDC PHIL and NIAID The case of an ambiguous food-borne pathogen causing an enteric infection is the first in our new series of clinical case files. Read the case study below and then use your microbiology expertise to determine which pathogen is causing the...
Dear Stanley: Are Synthetic Standards Compatible with My Assay?
Dear Stanley, I’m interested in a Microbiologics Helix Elite™ Synthetic Standards product, but I’m unsure if it will work for my assay. I read your post, Differences Between Synthetic and Inactivated Molecular Standards, but I’m still not confident the product and my...
Our Top Posts from 2018
Our team of writers kicked it up a notch in 2018 to create a steady stream of fun and informative posts for our readers. The best of the best from 2018 are listed below. We hope these posts help you grow as a microbiologist and bring a smile to your face. 1. Research...
Dear Stanley: Molecular QC Best Practices
Dear Stanley, I’m wondering if you have tips for QC in the molecular lab? We’re starting up a new training program and are looking for best practices to share with our staff. Shirley Columbus, Ohio Dear Shirley, You’ve come to the right place! Below is a list of my...
