Jan 29, 2025 | Occupational Health
Occupational HealthOccupational health is a multifaceted activity concerned with the prevention of ill health in employed populations. This involves the consideration of the two-way relationship between work and health. Its aim is to prevent illness, rather than cure ill health from wherever it arises at the workplace....
Jan 07, 2025 | Immunology
ImmunologyAmpath laboratories will introduce a new algorithm for HCV diagnosis to facilitate a shorter and more cost-effective pathway to treatment....
Nov 27, 2024 | Chemical Pathology
Chemical PathologyAmpath has extensively reviewed and updated some of the reference ranges and comments provided for haematinic testing to include recommendations from the most recent international and local consensus guidelines....
Oct 28, 2024 | Microbiology
Blood cultures are considered the “gold standard” to diagnose bloodstream infections, a major cause of death worldwide....
Oct 28, 2024 | Immunology
Diagnosing a pet allergy starts with a detailed history and physical examination, followed by diagnostic IgE testing, to rule out conditions with similar symptoms. Testing for specific IgE antibodies against allergens can be done by skin prick testing (SPT) or laboratory testing....
Sep 16, 2024 | Haematology
Haematology von willebrand disease collagen binding assayThis lab update contains information on the collagen binding assay as part of the workup for von willebrand disease....
Aug 19, 2024 | Genetics
Non-Invasive Prenatal TestingNon-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) is a prenatal screening test that is performed using maternal peripheral whole blood samples. The test calculates the risk of a foetus being affected with certain chromosomal abnormalities. From February 2023, Ampath will be offering the CentoNIPT® test, performed by CENTOGENE in Rostock, Germany....
Jun 07, 2024 | Genetics
Genetics Oncology Next Generation Sequencing Solid TumoursWe are excited to announce the launch of the latest addition to our solid tumour genetic testing repertoire, the Oncomine™ Comprehensive Assay Plus (OCAPLUS). The OCAPLUS assay is performed using Ion Torrent Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology and allows for some of the most comprehensive tumour genomic profiling currently available in South Africa....
May 30, 2024 | Genetics
Genetics Haemoglobinopathies Thalassaemia Sickle CellHaemoglobinopathies are a heterogenous group of disorders caused by inherited defects in the alpha globin (HBA) or beta globin (HBB) genes. Genetic testing is often necessary to better understand, predict and manage the clinical characteristics of these disorders....
Apr 10, 2024 | Chemical Pathology
Thyroid Function TestingAmpath has extensively reviewed and updated the comments provided for thyroid function testing to include recommendations from the most recent international and local SEMDSA/ACE guidelines. Interpretive comments have also been extended to children and neonates. The results of thyroid antibodies will be incorporated into our comments for primary overt and subclinical hypothyroidism and primary hyperthyroidism....
Mar 11, 2024 | Genetics
Next Generation Sequencing Rett Syndrome Neurological DisordersAmpath has recently implemented an in-house designed and validated NGS panel, run on the Ion Torrent platform. This panel is combined with a commercial MLPA kit, allowing for the detection of deletions/duplications in order to investigate and diagnose these conditions more effectively....
Feb 29, 2024 | Immunology
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)The updated STI screen at Ampath, available from 27 February 2024, has been updated in line with current guideline recommendations and can be performed with or without HIV testing. Results are available 24 to 48 hours after receipt of the sample at the testing laboratory....
Nov 29, 2023 | Haematology
Immunology Haematology Anti-phospholipid Syndrome (APS)Anti-phospholipid syndrome (APS) is an acquired autoimmune disorder that manifests clinically as recurrent venous or arterial thrombosis and/or pregnancy morbidity, with proven persistent laboratory evidence of antibodies against phospholipids (aPL). It is recommended to use the revised Sapporo APS Classification Criteria (also known as the Sydney criteria) to diagnose a patient with suspected APS. Ampath now offers the APS profile for diagnosis....
Nov 16, 2023 | Molecular Genetics
Leukaemia FLT3 PCR NPM1 PCRTo better align with the latest international AML management guidelines, Ampath Genetics is now offering targeted PCR-based testing for FLT3-ITD/TKD, as well as common NPM1 variants, at a markedly reduced turnaround time....
Oct 09, 2023 | Immunology
Primary membranous nephropathy Kidney disease Anti-PLA2 AntibodiesMembranous nephropathy (MN) is characterised by a thickening of the glomerular capillary walls due to immune complexes that are formed on the outer surface of the basement membrane. MN is the most common cause of nephrotic syndrome in adults without underlying diabetes mellitus. The diagnosis of MN should be considered in all adult patients who present clinically with nephrotic syndrome (including features such as proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, edema and weight gain)....
Aug 29, 2023 | Microbiology
Infectious Diseases Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)The presence of genital ulcers increases the risk of acquiring HIV. These patients may be co-infected with other sexually transmitted pathogens, hence accurate diagnosis and appropriate management is important....
Aug 28, 2023 | Microbiology
Infectious Diseases Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)Sexually transmitted infections not only lead to embarrassing symptoms, but people with STIs are more likely to acquire and transmit human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Sexually transmitted infections can also lead to infertility, chronic pelvic pain, ectopic pregnancies, miscarriages, and congenital and neonatal infections. The proper diagnosis, management and prevention of these infections is therefore of vital importance....
Jul 10, 2023 | Genetics
Malignancy Non-small cell lung carcinomaAmpath is a leading provider of comprehensive genetic testing in South Africa. The Oncomine™ Precision Assay is the latest in a string of state-of-the-art technologies being offered that allows for the simultaneous investigation of several solid tumour malignancies using a singular approach....
Jun 07, 2023 | Immunology
Encephalitis CNS Infections MeningitisCentral nervous system (CNS) infections have a high morbidity and mortality. Early detection of the offending pathogen and directed therapy is of paramount importance to improve patient outcomes and guide infection control measures. Molecular diagnostic tests have dramatically impacted the diagnosis and management of CNS infections, as these are more rapid and sensitive than conventional culture and antigen detection methods. The BioFire Meningitis/Encephalitis panel offers a syndromic test approach, detecting 14 of the most common bacterial, viral and fungal causes of CNS infections within a rapid turnaround time....
Jun 05, 2023 | Genetics
Pharmacogenomics Medication responsePre-emptive pharmacogenomic (PGx) testing has now been proven to reduce adverse drug reactions, resulting in better patient compliance and improved clinical outcomes. The PHARMA test performed at Ampath Laboratories allows for the detection of ~120 actionable variants in 36 pharmacogenes that are known to influence the metabolism of numerous commonly prescribed medications. Our PGx reports have been updated and improved with several additional features, which include free access to clinical decision support for clinicians and PGx counselling services for patients....
Jun 02, 2023 | Microbiology
EnterovirusEnteroviruses are common human pathogens, transmitted mainly through the faecal oral route or, less commonly, the respiratory route. Enteroviruses present with a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations, ranging from mild to severe. Clinically, enteroviruses can be divided into polio and non-polio enteroviruses. Non-polio enteroviruses include coxsackie A viruses, coxsackie B viruses, echoviruses and other “newer” enteroviruses such as enterovirus A71 and enterovirus D68. The appropriate diagnostic test depends on where the patient is in the course of the disease....
Jun 01, 2023 | Immunology
Respiratory Respiratory PCRAmpath has a range of panels to detect respiratory pathogens. These include smaller, targeted panels, as well as more comprehensive panels. The choice of test is determined by the requesting clinician based on their clinical assessment, suspected respiratory pathogen, urgency of result, cost and patient medical scheme reimbursement considerations....
May 18, 2023 | Immunology
Allergies Allergy Test(Updated February 5, 2024) The diagnosis of an allergy involves thorough history taking and diagnostic blood, skin prick and/or provocation tests. Blood tests can be divided into IgE-mediated and non-IgE-mediated tests. Blood tests for specific IgE antibodies against allergens are safe and do not require medication to be withdrawn prior to testing. The IgE-mediated blood tests consist of screening panels (Phadiatop inhalant and food mix IgE) and specific IgE tests directed at individual allergen extracts with or without allergen molecular components....
May 16, 2023 | Microbiology
Malaria Malaria TestingEven though standalone tests may be used to confirm the diagnosis of malaria, they have limitations (Table 2). Good diagnostic practice favours the use of malaria test combinations to enhance prompt and correct diagnosis....
May 15, 2023 | Haematology
TRBC1 is a fast, cost-effective and robust method for αβ T-cell clonality assessment, supporting the diagnosis of T-cell neoplasia....
Apr 04, 2023 | Microbiology
C. auris screening culture C. auris screening PCRWe are offering screening for colonisation with Candida auris. There are two modalities available: culture-based screening and PCR....
Apr 03, 2023 | Microbiology
Community-acquired Pneumonia (CAP) Hospital-acquired Pneumonia (HAP) Ventilator-acquired Pneumonia (VAP)Severe community-acquired pneumonia (CAP), hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) and ventilator-acquired pneumonia (VAP) continue to result in high morbidity and mortality. The Biofire FilmArray Pneumonia Panel Plus (Biomérieux) is an FDA-cleared, CE-marked multiplexed nucleic acid amplification test for the simultaneous detection of multiple respiratory viral and bacterial pathogens in sputum-like (sputum and endotracheal aspirate) and bronchoalveolar lavage specimens. Results are rapidly available, with a run time of approximately one hour from loading onto the instrument....
Apr 02, 2023 | Microbiology
GastroenteritisGastroenteritis is one of the most common infectious disease syndromes, with an estimated 2.4 billion episodes occurring worldwide annually. We are implementing a cost-effective multiplex PCR, which includes the most common bacterial and parasitic stool pathogens detected in our setting as an initial screen for patients presenting with acute gastroenteritis....
Nov 09, 2022 | Immunology
AutoimmunityConnective tissue disease (CTD) is a heterogeneous group of diseases characterised by antinuclear antibodies (ANA), as well as other distinctive autoantibodies. In the first version of this LabUpdate, we announced a simplified approach to the diagnosis of CTD, with updated antibody profiles and terminology. In this drastically changing milleu, with ever-increasing cost-to-patient considerations, the latest developments (with updated terminology on available autoimmune profiles) are described in this update....
May 01, 2022 | Immunology
AutoimmunityAmpath is pleased to announce a simplified approach to the diagnosis of connective tissue disease, with updated antibody profiles and terminology....
Mar 31, 2022 | Genetics
OncologyThe Oncomine(TM) Myeloid Assay GX (OMAGEN) offers a unique solution to this challenge by using targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) to detect all clinically relevant myeloid genetic biomarkers, mutations and fusions, all in one assay....
Mar 01, 2022 | Genetics
OncologyThe Oncomine™ Precision Assay is a next-generation sequencing (NGS) solution....
Aug 01, 2021 | Immunology
COVID-19 Infectious DiseasesSocial media is flooded with false information regarding the risks associated with the COVID-19 vaccination. Patients often turn to doctors for answers. If we are not able to address their concerns, patients may miss out on this potentially life-saving vaccination....
Jul 02, 2021 | Microbiology
COVID-19 Infectious DiseasesThe Delta SARS-CoV-2 variant was first detected in India in October 2020, and has since spread to 85 countries globally. As a result of its enhanced transmissibility, it has rapidly become the dominant strain in many countries....
Jul 01, 2021 | Microbiology
Infectious DiseasesThe laboratory diagnosis of schistosomiasis is challenging and particularly difficult in the setting of early and low-grade infections. This update serves to provide an overview of the diagnostic process....
May 01, 2021 | Chemical Pathology
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (LDL-C) is a well known target for therapy in patients with hyperlipidaemia. Retention of LDL-C and other cholesterol-rich apolipoprotein (Apo) B-containing lipoproteins within the arterial wall is considered an initiating event in atherogenesis....
Feb 01, 2021 | Chemical Pathology
It is estimated that 30% of women of reproductive age have anaemia. Among pregnant women, the prevalence is even higher with the WHO estimating that over 40% of pregnant women globally have anaemia....
Jul 01, 2020 | Microbiology
Infectious Diseases HIVThe standard approach to the laboratory diagnosis of HIV infection in adults and children older than 18 months is to detect the presence of HIV-specific antibodies in a blood specimen, usually by means of an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Screening HIV ELISA tests are designed to be extremely sensitive tests so that the negative predictive value of the tests is almost 100% (excluding those with window period infections). Most commercially available HIV ELISA assays detect HIV antibodies and the p24 antigen simultaneously, thereby reducing the window period of these tests. The downside to having a sensitive screening test is that false positive results may occur in a small percentage of positive specimens, which is why internatio...
Jul 01, 2020 | Chemical Pathology
Type III collagen is an important component of connective tissue. N-terminal procollagen-III peptide (P3NP) is a cleavage product of the precursor of Type III collagen and is formed in equimolar proportions to Type III collagen. Serum levels of P3NP can therefore be used as a measure of Type III collagen and reflects the rate of extracellular matrix synthesis or breakdown....
Jul 01, 2020 | Chemical Pathology
COVID-19 Infectious DiseasesIncreased high-sensitive cardiac troponin (hs-cTn) is a marker of myocardial injury, irrespective of the mechanism, and does not equate to acute myocardial infarction (MI)....
Jun 01, 2020 | Immunology
COVID-19 Infectious DiseasesAccumulating evidence suggests that inflammatory responses play a critical role in the progression of COVID-19. The inflammatory response is triggered by rapid viral replication of SARS-CoV-2 and cellular destruction, leading to the recruitment of macrophages and monocytes and the induction and release of cytokines. These cytokines attract more immune cells and further activate the immune response, leading to a “cytokine storm”....
Jun 01, 2020 | Microbiology
COVID-19 Infectious DiseasesThe laboratory plays a crucial role in the diagnosis of COVID-19 through the use of real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR) for the detection of unique sequences of viral RNA. Subsequently, it also provides critical haematological and biochemical tests for assessing disease severity and progression, as well as for monitoring therapeutic intervention....
Jan 01, 2020 | Genetics
The FMR1 disorders include fragile X syndrome (FXS), fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS), and fragile X-associated primary ovarian insufficiency (FXPOI). FXS is the most common single gene cause of intellectual disability with an estimated prevalence of 1/4000 to 1/6000. Almost all cases are caused by the expansion of an unstable trinucleotide (triplet) (CGG) repeat in the 5’ untranslated region of the FMR1 gene....
Nov 02, 2019 | Chemical Pathology
Pre-eclampsia (PE) is a major cause of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality, especially at early-onset (delivery at <34w gestation). Complications of PE include intracranial haemorrhage, HELLP syndrome, eclampsia, pulmonary oedema, renal failure, abruptio placentae, foetal growth restriction, intrauterine foetal death and preterm birth. Maternal future risks include cardiovascular, cerebrovascular or renal disease. Future risks to offspring born from affected pregnancies include hypertension, coronary artery disease and insulin resistance. In a South-African context, the prevalence of PE and severe PE is reported as 5.75% and 1.43% respectively. Global prevalence of PE varies between 2-5%....
Nov 01, 2019 | Microbiology
Infectious DiseasesNon-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are free-living ubiquitous organisms. More than 200 different species of NTM have been identified by using molecular techniques. The pathogenic potential of different NTM varies. Accurate identification to species level and discrimination from Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex is thus essential in determining the clinical relevance and guiding patient management. The GenoType CM direct assay is a molecular test for the identification of M. tuberculosis complex as well as clinically relevant NTM directly from clinical specimens. This assay is an adjunct to Mycobacterial culture in any patient in which NTM disease is suspected and may be especially useful where microscopy of clinical specimens is positive f...
Sep 01, 2019 | Microbiology
Infectious DiseasesThe pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) variability of voriconazole makes it a difficult drug to dose. It has a narrow therapeutic index, meaning that there is a narrow margin between the levels needed for therapeutic activity and the levels at which toxicity occurs. To achieve potential efficacy, trough levels of between 1 and 5.5 mg/L are needed. In patients with severe infections e.g. multifocal or disseminated disease, CNS infection, or infection with a pathogen with elevated MICs, a trough level of 2-6 mg/L is recommended. The potential for toxicity, especially neurotoxicity, increases significantly at levels of ≥6 mg/L....
Jul 01, 2019 | Chemical Pathology
Histamine turnover increases due to increased activity (allergic reactions) or proliferation (mastocytosis) of mast cells or basophils. Histamine is released intermittently and has a short half-life, thus measurement of urine 1-methylhistamine (N-Tele-methylhistamine, 1-MHIS), a major metabolite of histamine, has better sensitivity and specificity. Urine 1-MHIS testing is available at Ampath Esoteric Sciences by GC-MS/MS methodology....
Jun 01, 2019 | Microbiology
Infectious DiseasesBacterial vaginosis (BV) is a condition characterised by an alteration in vaginal flora and is one of the most common causes of vaginal discharge in women of reproductive age. Bacterial vaginosis is associated with an increased risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, the development of pelvic inflammatory disease, as well as poor reproductive outcomes, notably, preterm delivery. Timely diagnosis and treatment of BV is essential to avoid these complications....