Mayo Clinic Laboratories > Infectious diseases

Evidence-based testing for detection and identification

Our internationally renowned clinical microbiology laboratories offer a broad selection of tests designed for rapid identification and in-depth characterization of the causative agents of infectious diseases. We have developed and implemented culture techniques, immunoassays, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, and molecular methods for rapid detection, identification, and characterization, as well as provision of treatment guidance for microbial pathogens.

Eye on Innovation Widening the net to capture elusive pathogens
Answers From the Lab Infectious Diseases on the Move: Bill Morice, M.D., Ph.D.
Answers From the Lab The Growing Crisis of Antimicrobial Resistance: Robin Patel, M.D.
Patient Spotlight Learn how specialized testing helped to diagnose a rare red meat allergy.
Answers From the Lab Seasonal Outlook of Respiratory Viruses: Matthew Binnicker, Ph.D.

INFECTIOUS DISEASES TEST SPECIALTIES

Biopharma testing Biopharma testing
Biopharma testing

Our clinical microbiology laboratories span all areas of conventional and molecular medical microbiology, offering a broad selection of tests designed for rapid identification and in-depth characterization of the bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic agents of infectious diseases.

Fungal infections Fungal infections
Fungal infections

Our comprehensive fungal infection testing menu is supported by ongoing innovation and development of novel testing methods and strategies and enables detection of a wide range of clinically significant pathogens, including newly emerging species.

Gastrointestinal parasitic disease Gastrointestinal parasitic disease
Gastrointestinal parasitic disease

A focused approach to testing is the best way to identify the type of parasite present in a sample. Infection is often asymptomatic, but symptoms range from diarrhea and malnutrition to intestinal obstruction, and rarely, death.

Helicobacter pylori Helicobacter pylori
Helicobacter pylori

Find out why a timely, accurate diagnosis of H. pylori is critical for improving patients’ gastrointestinal health and preventing further harm.

Infectious diseases pathology Infectious diseases pathology
Infectious diseases pathology

Our practice provides regular exposure, not only to common infections but also to uncommon infections that most pathologists may only see once in their careers.

Metagenomics Metagenomics
Metagenomics

To facilitate diagnosis of challenging central nervous system infections, we offer metagenomic sequencing. This unbiased testing approach holistically sequences all the DNA and RNA present in a sample and analyzes detected sequences to identify the presence of thousands of pathogenics microorganisms.

Respiratory disease Respiratory disease
Respiratory disease

Our practice offers the full spectrum of testing for COVID-19, influenza, respiratory syncytial virus, and more, providing a one-stop location for clinicians to order testing to diagnose viruses more quickly and determine the best course of treatment for their patients.

Vector-borne diseases Vector-borne diseases
Vector-borne diseases

Our internationally renowned clinical microbiology laboratories span all areas of conventional, molecular, and serological medical microbiology, offering a broad selection of tests designed for rapid identification and in-depth characterization of the pathogens associated with infectious diseases.

“We're always trying to develop new methods, broader methods, faster methods, less expensive methods.”

Nancy Wengenack, Ph.D., Division of Clinical Microbiology

Our difference

Physician-led subspecialized laboratories
Our laboratories are managed by physicians and scientists with expert knowledge regarding the clinical implications of each test result and how it can impact patient care.

The right tests, not the most tests
Our clinicians and laboratorians focus on maintaining high-quality, cost-effective, and efficient care by using algorithmic, evidence-based approaches that lead to correct diagnoses and treatment while minimizing unnecessary testing.

Access across the globe
Every laboratory offers testing. But at Mayo Clinic Laboratories, in addition to our comprehensive testing menu, we offer a service that allows patients access to Mayo Clinic experts from across the world.

News and updates

The latest

Dr. Morice discusses lab market trends with the Advisory Board

William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., recently joined the Advisory Board for a webinar discussion on 2024 lab market trends. Dr. Morice covered the current lab market outlook, the priority trends, and opportunities for future growth.

Learn more
Significant Infectious Disease Activity Continues: Bill Morice, M.D., Ph.D.

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories, to discuss infectious disease activity around the nation.

The Impacts of STI Testing Innovation: Elitza Theel, Ph.D.

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by Elitza Theel, Ph.D., director of the Infectious Diseases Serology Laboratory at Mayo Clinic, for a conversation about innovation in testing for sexually transmitted infections (STI).

Guidance on subtyping of influenza A test results

Mayo Clinic Laboratories’ guidance for subtyping influenza A in response to a CDC advisory for hospitalized patients

The Latest on H5 Avian Influenza: Bill Morice, M.D., Ph.D.

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories, to discuss emerging concerns about H5N1 avian influenza.

Global Vigilance in Preventing Infectious Disease Outbreaks: Bill Morice, M.D., Ph.D.

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories, to discuss the latest in infectious disease outbreaks.

What’s Causing Outbreaks of Preventable Infectious Diseases: Bill Morice, M.D., Ph.D.

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories, to discuss recent outbreaks in vaccine-preventable diseases.

Preparing for Respiratory Viruses: Bill Morice, M.D., Ph.D.

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories, to discuss practical steps for protecting yourself and innovations that are making testing and vaccination easier.

Dr. Morice discusses lab market trends with the Advisory Board

William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., recently joined the Advisory Board for a webinar discussion on 2024 lab market trends. Dr. Morice covered the current lab market outlook, the priority trends, and opportunities for future growth.

Metagenomic Sequencing — A Tool for Diagnosis of Central Nervous System Infection

PACE / State of FL This webinar will cover metagenomic sequencing for diagnosing central nervous system infection. Content will be shared regarding technical details, clinical applications, and results interpretation, drawing on both current literature and practice guidelines.

Why Mpox is a Public Health Emergency: Matthew Binnicker, Ph.D.

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by Matthew Binnicker, Ph.D., professor of laboratory medicine and pathology and clinical virologist at Mayo Clinic. They discuss the upsurge of mpox cases, particularly in Africa, and why the World Health Organization has declared it a public health emergency of international concern.

Tracking the Latest Pathogens: Bill Morice, M.D., Ph.D.

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories. They discuss what’s new and ongoing with pathogens and infections.

Alarming Increase in Dengue Cases: Elitza Theel, Ph.D.

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by Elitza Theel, Ph.D., director of the Infectious Diseases Serology Laboratory at Mayo Clinic, to discuss the increase of dengue cases in the United States and around the world.

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