Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria are part of healthy digestive systems, but some strains produce poisons called Shiga toxins that can cause severe diarrhea and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). Lab tests can detect these disease-causing E. coli to help diagnose an infection.
Genetic tests for targeted cancer therapy detect mutations (changes) in the DNA of cancer cells. Knowing whether the cancer has a particular mutation can help guide the type of treatment that a person receives. The presence or absence of certain mutations can predict who may benefit from certain drugs and who is not likely to respond.
Measles (rubeola) and mumps are viral infections that usually resolve within several days but may cause serious complications. Both are preventable by vaccinations. Lab tests can help determine immunity or diagnose active infections.
Clopidogrel genotype testing detects genetic variation in the gene CYP2C19 to help determine if a person may be less responsive to the antiplatelet drug clopidogrel.
Chromosome analysis or karyotyping is a test that evaluates the number and structure of a person's chromosomes in order to detect abnormalities. A karyotype may be used to diagnose genetic diseases, some birth defects, such as Down syndrome, or leukemia and lymphoma.