The processes that occur following the discovery of new blood tests and before their approval for medical use are currently not well understood. A group of Canadian researchers have now investigated the various in-between steps. They found that it takes […]
Although professional athletes seem to embody health and fitness, they also face a variety of health risks. Fortunately, nowadays, many of these risks can be monitored in the laboratory. Italian researchers provide an overview of the most important parameters in […]
Value-based healthcare (VBHC) measures health outcomes against the cost of their delivery. A group of Italian researchers believe that laboratory medicine is ready to add value to the healthcare cycle by introducing new skills, and that a close collaboration between […]
Failure to follow-up medical test results poses a great risk to patient safety and quality of care. A new stakeholder forum bringing together health consumers, clinicians and policy organisations aims to improve the situation. By Mary Dahm Pathology and medical […]
Thyroid disorders are among the most common diseases of the endocrine system. A new study now reveals that both an overactive as well as an underactive thyroid can have a negative impact on bone mass. By Vasilios Pergialiotis Thyroid dysfunction […]
Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs and dietary supplements are widely used by patients. On average, an American household spends up to USD 350 annually on various OTC drugs and dietary supplements. However, the general public is often not aware or informed about […]
Ovarian cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in women. Its vague and non-specific symptoms often result in late presentation with advanced disease. Early detection of ovarian cancer, which allows timely treatment, can improve survival. Nevertheless, the […]
A personalised approach to patients’ treatment has been made possible with the advent of new “omics” technologies. These are laboratory diagnostics tailored to individual patients, which is much more effective than traditional diagnostics of a specific disease. Personalised laboratory medicine […]
Infrared spectroscopy of finger nails: an easy, comfortable and affordable way to diagnose without a need for blood sampling. The growing number of people with diabetes is creating a global public health problem. Blood glucose is widely used for monitoring […]
Theranos was meant to revolutionize the blood testing industry with groundbreaking technology. However, its’ failure to deliver and consequent collapse showed that “Theranos was like anything in life, what glitters may not be gold; it might not even be silver […]
