Diagnostic Methods & Technologies Flashcards

What is the purpose of diagnostic testing in the laboratory?

Answer: To diagnose and manage health conditions

Diagnostic testing in the laboratory plays a vital role in healthcare by analyzing patient samples to identify diseases, monitor treatment effectiveness, and assess overall health. These tests provide critical information that helps clinicians make accurate diagnoses, develop appropriate treatment plans, and manage various health conditions effectively. The results guide medical decisions, leading to better patient outcomes.

Which diagnostic method uses sound waves to create internal images?

Answer: Ultrasound

Ultrasound technology utilizes high-frequency sound waves that are emitted into the body and then bounce off internal structures. A transducer captures these returning echoes, which are then processed to create real-time images of organs, blood vessels, and soft tissues. This method is non-invasive and does not use ionizing radiation, making it safe for various diagnostic purposes, including fetal imaging.

What is PCR primarily used for in diagnostics?

Answer: Amplifying genetic material

PCR, or Polymerase Chain Reaction, is a powerful molecular biology technique used to amplify specific segments of DNA. It rapidly makes millions of copies of a target genetic sequence from a very small sample. In diagnostics, this amplification is crucial for detecting the presence of pathogens, identifying genetic mutations, or analyzing gene expression, even when the initial amount of genetic material is minute.

Which instrument is used for analyzing blood gases?

Answer: Blood gas analyzer

A blood gas analyzer is a specialized instrument specifically designed to measure the levels of oxygen, carbon dioxide, pH, and other critical parameters in a blood sample. These measurements are vital for assessing a patient's respiratory function, metabolic status, and acid-base balance. The results provide rapid and essential information for managing critically ill patients.

What technology is used in immunoassays to detect antibodies or antigens?

Answer: ELISA

ELISA, which stands for Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay, is a widely used immunoassay technique. It employs antibodies and enzyme-linked detection systems to identify and quantify specific antigens or antibodies in a sample. This method is highly sensitive and specific, making it invaluable for diagnosing infectious diseases, detecting hormones, and screening for certain cancers.

What does MRI stand for?

Answer: Magnetic Resonance Imaging

MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. It is a sophisticated medical imaging technique that uses a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to generate detailed images of organs, soft tissues, bone, and virtually all other internal body structures. The full name accurately describes the physical principles—magnetic fields and resonance—that underpin its operation.

Which technique is commonly used for protein separation?

Answer: Electrophoresis

Electrophoresis is a fundamental laboratory technique used to separate macromolecules, such as proteins and nucleic acids, based on their size and electrical charge. When an electric field is applied, these molecules migrate through a gel matrix at different rates. This separation allows for the identification, purification, and analysis of individual protein components within a complex mixture.

Which technology is often used in point-of-care testing (POCT)?

Answer: Portable diagnostic devices

Point-of-care testing (POCT) refers to diagnostic testing performed near or at the site of patient care, rather than in a central laboratory. Portable diagnostic devices are essential for POCT, enabling rapid results and quicker clinical decision-making. These devices are designed to be user-friendly and provide immediate insights, improving patient management and outcomes in various settings.

What is the main advantage of automated diagnostic technologies?

Answer: They provide faster and more reliable results

Automated diagnostic technologies significantly enhance laboratory efficiency and accuracy. By minimizing human intervention, they reduce the potential for manual errors and standardize testing procedures. This automation leads to faster sample processing, higher throughput, and more reliable test results, ultimately improving the speed and quality of patient care.