The Microbiology Laboratory offers a modern comprehensive range of tests from microscopy to the detection of organism DNA.
The activity of the laboratory can be broadly divided into five categories:
Microscopy for the detection of parasites, fungal elements, bacteria and a variety of cells associated with disease. Different staining techniques are available depending on the application.
Culture of bacteria or fungi on a variety of media and subsequent identification of these organisms.
Susceptibility testing which is done according to CLSI (Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute) criteria. Utilizing automated Vitek 2 technology, the majority of susceptibilities are reported on the basis of MIC (Minimum Inhibitory Concentration) determination.
Antigen detection tests. These can be viral eg. Rotavirus or bacterial eg. Clostridium difficile. Rapid Elisa tests are used.
Mycobacterium culture and susceptibility testing by utilizing state of the art MGIT technology (Mycobacteria Growth Indicator Tube) ensuring a rapid turnaround time. PCR technology is used to confirm Mycobacterium TB complex in positive cultures.
Clinical Microbiologists are available for consultation in matters relating to antimicrobial treatment, infective diseases and advice pertaining to the selection and interpretation of serological results.