Comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) is advancing precision oncology through the analysis of multiple relevant biomarkers in a single next-generation sequencing (NGS) test. From a single analysis of a small sample, one can gather comprehensive genomic information to...
Two SARS-COV-2 variants are currently getting coverage in the press, namely BA.2.86 and EG.5. Both are subvariants or lineages of Omicron, however, renewed interest has stemmed from the large number of mutations detected in these viruses. For example, BA.2.86 has more...
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), is a common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age, characterised by enlarged ovaries with cyst formation, ovulatory dysfunction, and/or elevated androgens. Although it is known that PCOS is an insulin resistant metabolic...
Sexually transmitted infections (STI) are commonly underdiagnosed. Molecular methods have improved detection rates, especially among asymptomatic individuals, and has subsequently replaced conventional culture and serology. Despite the availability of syndromic...
In collaboration with the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA), numerous pharmaceutical companies have recommended that DPYD pre-testing be performed to identify patients at increased risk of severe toxicity due to fluoropyrimidine containing...
Placental DNA circulates freely in the maternal blood stream which can be sampled by venipuncture of the expecting mother. NIPS is able to test for extra chromosome 13, 18 or 21 material in foetal placental DNA. The foetal DNA originates from placental trophoblasts. ...
PathCare has implemented PCR testing for monkeypox virus. It is therefore no longer necessary to discuss each case with the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) prior to specimen submission to PathCare, however, the PathCare Virologist on call may be...
Influenza A positivity rates declined steadily during July but remained above 10% throughout the month. A shift in the proportion of influenza A subtypes was noted, with increased circulation of H3N2 as compared to May/June. Influenza B detection increased slightly...
This report summarises respiratory virus PCR panel results for specimens submitted for testing to the private pathology practices that form part of the NPG from April to June 2022. A variety of multiplex PCR panels are used across NPG-associated practices. For data...
The influenza season continued during June, with influenza A positivity rates remaining above 25% throughout the month despite a gradual weekly decline. Influenza B detection rates remained below 5%. Influenza A positive samples were mostly H1N1 strains, although H3N2...