Swab and Sputum Sample Instructions (Throat, Cervix)

• These tests require precise preparations to ensure obtaining a representative sample and to avoid false negative results.

Semen Analysis

• Abstain from sexual intercourse or ejaculation for 3 to 5 consecutive days (some sources allow up to 7 days). (Shorter or longer periods may affect the results).
• It is preferable to provide the sample inside the laboratory.
• Ensure that the entire semen, especially the initial drops, is collected in the sterile container.
• Make sure there is no water or soap in the container or on the hands.
• If the sample is brought from home (in exceptional cases), it must reach the lab within 20 minutes (keep it warm during transport).

Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (TDM)

• Importance of Drug or Therapeutic Drug Testing

  This test helps doctors in treating addiction cases, adjusting doses of specific medications (e.g., anti-seizure drugs), or determining the appropriate level of drugs for transplant patients to ensure the organ is not rejected.

  Preparations for Therapeutic Drug Monitoring

  • (e.g., asthma or seizure medications).
  • The medication must be taken regularly for at least 5 days before the test.
  • No vomiting or diarrhea should occur 48 hours prior to the test.
  • Two samples are collected:
    • Trough Sample: collected within one hour before the next dose (to measure the lowest drug level in the blood).
    • Peak Sample: collected several hours after the dose (timing varies by drug, as determined by the lab) (to measure the highest drug level in the blood).

  PCR Test

  Importance of PCR Test

  Used for precise detection of diseases, identifying genetic fingerprints, and detecting gene mutations responsible for hereditary disorders. It is also important for detecting viruses (e.g., COVID-19, hepatitis viruses) and bacteria, and diagnosing conditions such as Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF).

  Food Intolerance Test (Food Print)

  Importance of Food Intolerance Test

  If you experience digestive symptoms (bloating, irritable bowel), skin issues (itching), neurological symptoms (migraine), chronic fatigue, or weight problems, food intolerance may be the cause. Symptoms appear after consuming certain foods, making it hard to identify the trigger. This test (e.g., Food Print 220+) identifies the foods causing symptoms and provides a dietary guide to avoid them.

  Genetic Testing

  Importance of Genetic Testing (Before Birth)

  • Assess pregnancy risk (fetal malformations) in cases of recurrent miscarriage.
  • Evaluate consanguinity before or during pregnancy.
  • Diagnose infertility cases.
  • Genetic diagnosis before in-vitro fertilization (IVF).

  Importance of Genetic Testing (After Birth)

  • Diagnose delayed growth, dwarfism, and short stature.
  • Detect rare diseases in children.

  Importance of Newborn Genetic Screening (Heel-Prick Test)

  There is a rare genetic disorder called Phenylketonuria (PKU), affecting 1 in 7000 newborns, which causes a genetic defect making the child avoid food.

  • Advice: It is recommended to test your baby’s heel sample 3 days after birth.
  • This early test, along with others (e.g., galactosemia, thyroid hormone deficiency), is essential to prevent intellectual and physical disabilities, bone deformities, and start treatment immediately.

Swabs, cultures, and sputum tests aim to accurately identify pathogens and select the appropriate treatment (antibiotics).

This category includes all culture, sensitivity, swab, and direct staining tests.