A Test in Focus

Linda Hasadsri, M.D., Ph.D., explains carrier screening at Mayo Clinic Laboratories. Using targeted genotyping, our three focused panels evaluate genes associated with cystic fibrosis, spinal muscular atrophy, and hemoglobinopathies, to provide clear answers on reproductive risks and to guide decision-making.

By Robin Huiras-Carlson • November 22, 2022

Puanani Hopson, D.O., explains how Mayo Clinic Laboratories’ malabsorption panel can provide timelier diagnosis for children with chronic diarrhea or unexplained weight loss. The novel panel, which bundles four existing tests, requires just one stool sample.

By Barbara J. Toman • November 15, 2022

Rondell Graham, M.B.B.S., describes Mayo Clinic Laboratories' new assay for gastrointestinal stromal tumors, or GIST. The panel covers multiple mutations, to better inform diagnosis and treatment options.

By Barbara J. Toman • November 8, 2022

In this test specific episode of the "Answers From the Lab" podcast, Ruifeng (Ray) Guo, M.D., Ph.D., explains how Mayo Clinic Laboratories' comprehensive melanoma panel better informs prognosis and treatment.

By Barbara J. Toman • November 1, 2022

Rondell Graham, M.B.B.S., describes Mayo Clinic Laboratories' new colorectal cancer panel. The assay covers more genes to better inform decision-making about prognosis, targeted therapies and a hereditary cancer syndrome.

By Barbara J. Toman • October 27, 2022

Ying-Chun Lo, M.D., Ph.D., explains how Mayo Clinic Laboratories' updated lung panel can better guide clinical decision-making, particularly about targeted lung cancer therapies.

By Barbara J. Toman • October 25, 2022

Andrew McKeon, M.B., B.Ch., M.D., explains how Mayo Clinic Laboratories' pediatric autoimmune/CNS testing can better guide the treatment of autoimmune neurological diseases in children. The tailored evaluation covers only biomarkers relevant to pediatric presentations of the diseases.

By Barbara J. Toman • October 18, 2022

Loralie Langman, Ph.D., explains the difference between chain of custody and clinical toxicology testing. Chain of custody is a process used for toxicology testing when the results might have legal implications for the individual tested. Clinical toxicology testing is used for routine medical care. Mayo Clinic Laboratories offers a full range of clinical and forensic toxicology testing.

By Robin Huiras-Carlson • October 11, 2022

Katherine Geiersbach, M.D., explains how Mayo Clinic Laboratories' PIK3CA assay informs breast cancer treatment. The assay identifies patients eligible for a certain second-line therapy when initial treatment has failed.

By Barbara J. Toman • September 20, 2022

Joseph Maleszewski, M.D., and Marie-Christine Aubry, M.D., explain how Mayo Clinic Laboratory can provide definitive diagnosis of primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD). Mayo Clinic's expertise and technology have earned the laboratory's designation as the sole center of excellence for diagnosing this rare respiratory disorder.

By Barbara J. Toman • September 15, 2022

Paul Jannetto, Ph.D., describes Mayo Clinic Laboratories' new direct biomarker test for alcohol consumption. PETH is a blood test with a window of detection of about two to four weeks — compared with five days for urine-based screening for alcohol use.

By Barbara J. Toman • September 13, 2022

Ann Moyer, M.D., Ph.D., and Paul Jannetto, Ph.D., explain how precision therapeutics can improve treatment for patients with major depressive disorder. The optimal antidepressant medication and dose vary among individuals. Pharmacogenomic testing and therapeutic drug monitoring can guide clinicians to the most-effective treatment for each patient.

By Barbara J. Toman • September 6, 2022

Linnea M. Baudhuin, Ph.D., and Emily K. Thoreson, M.S., CGC, explain how Mayo Clinic Laboratories renal genetics testing provides comprehensive, accurate and actionable results. Identifying a genetic cause helps guide the complex decisions involved with treating kidney disease.

By Barbara J. Toman • August 30, 2022