Medilab+
Multiplex analysis: accurate diagnosis based on several indicators at once
What is multiplex analysis? Multiplex analysis is a modern high-tech technique that allows you to simultaneously examine dozens, and sometimes hundreds, of biomarkers within a single biological sample. Due to this ability, the method has been widely used in medical diagnostics, science, and pharmacology. The technique is based on the technologies of microchips, biochips, multiplex PCR (qPCR), or microspheres with fluorescent labels. Each area of the chip or bead is responsible for a specific marker — protein, DNA, RNA, or other analyte. When a reagent is added to the sample, the system analyzes many parameters at once, reading the result automatically. What are the advantages of multiplex analysis? The advantages of multiplex analysis are not only in convenience. It is about a qualitatively different level of medical accuracy: Complexity: you get several indicators at once without additional samples or repeated visits Time saving: instead of dozens of separate tests — one with a result in 1–2 days Less biomaterial: one tube of blood or even a smear is enough Higher sensitivity: some...
Important tests: which tests should be done regularly
Regular medical examinations are not an unnecessary precaution, but a way to detect diseases in the early stages, when they do not yet manifest themselves as symptoms. But in the sea of laboratory tests, it is not always clear which tests are truly important and which are additional. Below is a practical comparison of key tests that are recommended to be taken even in the absence of complaints. Why you should take tests regularly Early detection of hidden processes Monitoring chronic conditions Predicting risks (for example, cardiovascular diseases) Checking the effectiveness of treatment Monitoring after operations, infections, vaccinations According to WHO, more than 50% diseases can be prevented or significantly alleviated through preventive diagnostics. Table: Comparison of the most important tests Analysis What it shows Who is recommended Frequency of passage Complete blood count Inflammation, anemia, infections Everyone 1 time per year Complete urine test Condition of the kidneys, urinary system Everyone 1 time per year Blood biochemistry Liver, kidneys, sugar, cholesterol After 30 years or as prescribed 1–2 times per year Glucose (fasting) Risk of diabetes Everyone, especially overweight 1–2 times per year Lipid profile Cholesterol and its...
Diagnosis of genetic diseases: how DNA helps recognize a disease before it manifests itself
What is genetic disease diagnosis? Genetic diagnosis is a set of laboratory and clinical methods that allow detecting hereditary or congenital disorders at the level of DNA, genes or chromosomes. Such diseases can manifest themselves at birth or remain asymptomatic until adolescence or adulthood. Therefore, modern diagnostics is important both for patients with suspected pathology and for people planning to have a child. Methods for diagnosing genetic diseases 1. Classical karyotyping Analyzes the structure and number of chromosomes Used to detect aneuploidies (e.g., Down syndrome) Samples: blood, amniotic fluid The method is slow (up to 14 days), but accurate for detecting large rearrangements 2. FISH (fluorescence in situ hybridization) Detects microscopic chromosome abnormalities Used in cases of suspected microdeletion syndromes Faster than karyotyping (1–2 days), high accuracy 3. PCR (polymerase chain reaction) Search for specific mutations in known genes (e.g., cystic fibrosis, phenylketonuria) Used for carrier status or confirmation of diagnosis Result...
Dopamine levels: how they affect our mood, behavior, and health
What is dopamine and why is it so important? Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that transmits signals between nerve cells. Its function is not limited to emotions - it affects the ability to concentrate, motivate, make decisions, form habits, sleep, control appetite and even the ability to feel pleasure from achievements. In the brain, dopamine acts as a kind of «reward system»: when a person reaches a goal, receives a compliment or completes a difficult task - dopamine is released, which gives euphoria and stimulates us to act again. But its balance is very fragile, and even minor deviations can have serious consequences. How dopamine functions in different parts of the brain Brain area Dopamine function Prefrontal cortex Attention, planning, decision-making Nucleus accumbens (reward core) Feeling of pleasure, motivation Striatum Habit formation, motor activity Hypothalamus Control of the endocrine system, appetite Substantia nigra Coordination of movements (important in Parkinson's disease) These regions form a complex network where dopamine acts as a mediator between emotions, behavior and physical health. Why it is important to monitor dopamine levels Dopamine imbalance -...
Tick allergy: how to recognize and protect yourself at home
The Invisible Enemy in Pillows and Mattresses Every day we come across millions of microscopic organisms without even noticing it. Among them, dust mites that live in bedding, carpets, and upholstered furniture are particularly unpleasant. For most people, they are harmless, but for some, they cause a powerful allergic reaction - from chronic rhinitis to bronchial asthma. Mite allergy is one of the most common forms of household allergies, which is often confused with the common cold or seasonal rhinitis. What is a mite allergy? A mite allergy is a reaction of the immune system to proteins contained in the body, saliva, and feces of mites of the Dermatophagoides family. These mites feed on dead human skin cells and actively multiply in a moist, warm environment. The most allergens are found in: bed linen pillows mattresses blankets upholstered furniture carpets soft toys The problem is that even after the mites die, their feces and body fragments remain in the air and cause a reaction. The main symptoms...
Folic acid blood test: step-by-step instructions
Sometimes we look for the causes of constant fatigue, memory impairment or low mood in complex diagnoses, while the cause may be much simpler - folic acid deficiency. This vitamin imperceptibly, but vitally supports the work of our hematopoietic, nervous and immune systems. Its level becomes especially relevant for those who are preparing to become parents, suffer from anemia or have chronic gastrointestinal diseases. That is why a blood test for folic acid is not a formality, but an important tool in maintaining health. Step 1. Understanding the role of vitamin B9 Folic acid is a B vitamin that participates in cell division, DNA and red blood cell synthesis. It is especially important during the period of active growth, pregnancy, as well as for the functioning of the nervous and hematopoietic systems. When the level of folate in the blood decreases, symptoms of weakness, sleep disorders, anemia, depression or fetal development delay may appear. Step 2. Determining indications for taking the test It is recommended...
BRCA1 and BRCA2: What you need to know about genes linked to cancer risk
What are BRCA1 and BRCA2 BRCA1 and BRCA2 are genes that are responsible for repairing damaged DNA in cells. They act as so-called "tumor suppressors," meaning they prevent uncontrolled cell growth. But if there is a mutation in these genes, the DNA repair process is disrupted — and the likelihood of developing malignant tumors increases, primarily breast and ovarian cancer. What is the connection between BRCA mutations and cancer? According to the National Cancer Institute, women with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations have a lifetime risk of developing breast cancer of up to 72 %, and ovarian cancer of up to 44 %. Men with such mutations also have an increased risk of prostate and breast cancer. These mutations can be hereditary — that is, passed on from a father or mother even if the parents themselves have no symptoms. When to get tested for BRCA If there has been a family history of breast cancer, especially before the age of 50 ...
TORCH infections: what it is, when to get tested and why it's important
What are TORCH infections? TORCH is an abbreviation that unites a group of infections that are especially dangerous during pregnancy. They have the ability to be transmitted to the fetus in utero and can lead to serious damage to the nervous system, sensory organs, congenital malformations or even intrauterine death. The abbreviation TORCH stands for: T (Toxoplasma gondii) - toxoplasmosis O (Others) - others: syphilis, HIV, parvovirus B19, chickenpox virus R (Rubella) - rubella C (Cytomegalovirus, CMV) - cytomegalovirus H (Herpes simplex virus, HSV) - herpes simplex virus (types 1 and 2) These infections are especially dangerous for the fetus when the infection occurs for the first time during pregnancy. Therefore, it is important to detect antibodies to pathogens at the planning stage. Why is testing for TORCH infections important when planning pregnancy TORCH infections have the ability to penetrate the placental barrier and affect the child's immature immunity. This can cause: intrauterine developmental delay vision and hearing defects microcephaly heart defects congenital...
Probiotic supplements: why you need them and how to choose the right ones
What are probiotics? Probiotics are live microorganisms (mostly bacteria and yeasts) that, when consumed in sufficient quantities, provide health benefits. Most often, probiotics are used to maintain the balance of the intestinal microbiota - that is, the good bacteria that live in our digestive tract. The form of release of probiotics varies: capsules, powders, liquid concentrates, yogurts with the addition of live cultures. The most popular genera of beneficial bacteria are Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Saccharomyces (yeast). When are probiotic supplements recommended Probiotics can be part of both treatment and prevention. Their use is especially effective in the following cases: after antibiotic therapy (to prevent diarrhea and dysbiosis) in irritable bowel syndrome in functional digestive disorders in food intoxications and poisonings in patients with food allergies to increase immunity in high levels of stress that affects digestion in children with atopic dermatitis or colic How probiotics work Probiotics do not just "populate" the intestines, but interact with its environment: they compete with pathogens...
Daily urine: how to avoid errors when collecting analysis
Daily urine collection seems like a simple process, but it is precisely because of non-compliance with the rules that patients often receive incorrect results. Incorrect timekeeping, missed portions, or improper storage of the material lead to the need to retake the analysis. In this article, we will analyze the most common mistakes, explain the features of preparation, and consider why this analysis is so important. Main mistakes when collecting daily urine Failure to follow the basic rules can lead to distortion of laboratory data. Here are the most common mistakes: Omitting at least one portion of urine per day Incorrect determination of the beginning and end of the collection period Storing urine at room temperature without refrigeration Using containers unsuitable for storage (for example, non-sterile jars) Eating foods that change the color or composition of urine (beets, carrots, coffee, alcohol) Giving an incomplete volume without indicating the total amount of urine per day Any violation can lead to erroneous results that will require re-testing. How to properly organize daily urine collection: step by step 1. Start collection Choose a time...
