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.
“We're always trying to develop new methods, broader methods, faster methods, less expensive methods.”
Nancy Wengenack, Ph.D., Division of Clinical Microbiology
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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 news about drug-resistant infections. Later, Paul Jannetto, Ph.D., director of the Clinical and Forensic Toxicology Lab, Clinical Mass Spectrometry Lab, and Metals Lab, joins Dr. Pritt for the deep dive segment. Together, they explore how diagnostics are shaping the future of therapeutics.
William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., chair of the Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology at Mayo Clinic and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories, joins the "Answers From the Lab" podcast for his weekly leadership update with Bobbi Pritt, M.D. In this episode, Dr. Morice and Dr. Pritt discuss the range of emerging viruses and their variants that are currently in the news.
Matthew Binnicker, Ph.D., director of Mayo Clinic’s Clinical Virology Laboratory, joins the "Answers From the Lab" podcast for a discussion with Bobbi Pritt, M.D. about recent outbreaks of viral infections. In this episode, Dr. Binnicker and Dr. Pritt look at the hepatitis cases in children possibly linked to adenovirus as well as the spread of Monkeypox.
Elitza Theel, Ph.D., director of the Infectious Diseases Serology Lab at Mayo Clinic, joins the "Answers From the Lab" podcast for a discussion with Bobbi Pritt, M.D. about tick-borne disease testing. In this episode, Dr. Theel and Dr. Pritt look at emerging tick-borne illnesses, the tests available to detect these infections, and how to prevent them.
Recognizing Dr. Pritt’s innovative work in medical education, the Infectious Diseases Society of America is highlighting her role as an educator in its monthly series.
In this month's "Hot Topic," Elitza Theel, Ph.D., will be discussing laboratory utilization management, specifically for diagnostic testing for tick-borne diseases.
Audrey Schuetz, M.D., provides a detailed overview of Mayo Clinic Laboratories’ new culture-based extended spectrum beta lactamase (ESBL) testing. Used to screen for the presence of multi-drug resistant gram-negative bacteria in donor stool intended for fecal microbiota transplantation, the screening test is performed on stool or swab samples taken from around the anus to detect potentially harmful ESBL bacteria that could jeopardize the outcomes of fecal microbiota transplants -- especially in patients who carry the bacteria in their gut without getting sick.
Joseph Yao, M.D., explains how Mayo Clinic Laboratories’ SARS four-target test for viral respiratory disease can enhance patient care. The test detects RNA from SARS-CoV-2, influenza A, influenza B and respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV. RSV — which poses significant risks for infants and patients with underlying health conditions — can be treated if diagnosed early.
If you need a test for COVID-19, a variety of options are now available. But how do you know which one is right for you? Use this guide from Mayo Clinic Laboratories to sort through the choices and help you decide.
This week on the podcast, Brad Karon, M.D., Ph.D., chair of Mayo Clinic’s Division of Clinical Core Laboratory Services, joins "Answers From the Lab" with Bobbi Pritt, M.D. and William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D. This episode focuses on at-home testing for COVID-19, including the types of tests that are available, when they should be used, and how well they work.
With the omicron variant grabbing headlines around the world, media outlets have turned to experts like Dr. Binnicker to help clarify the effect this new variant could have and what it might mean for the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a recent Wall Street Journal article, the director of Mayo Clinic’s Infectious Diseases Serology Laboratory, Elitza Theel, Ph.D., was among a group of experts discussing the value of COVID-19 antibody testing.
Audrey Schuetz, M.D., discusses Mayo Clinic Laboratories' PCR assay that identifies two recently described staphylococcus species. The assay is unique in its ability to distinguish the new organisms from Staphylococcus aureus, providing clearer results that ultimately improve patient care.