Molecular Diagnostic Services

Depending on the physician’s request and available test panels, the department provides molecular investigations including:

• PCR-based detection of infectious diseases
• Detection of viral DNA/RNA
• Detection of bacterial DNA
• Molecular testing for selected parasitic infections
• Qualitative PCR testing
• Quantitative / Real-Time PCR (qPCR) testing where clinically indicated
• Molecular confirmation of selected infectious conditions
• Detection and monitoring of selected pathogens
• Other specialized molecular investigations according to clinical requirements

Examples of PCR Investigations

The molecular laboratory may perform or support testing for selected conditions such as:

• Hepatitis B (HBV DNA)
• Hepatitis C (HCV RNA)
• HIV viral load / HIV RNA
• Other viral infections
• Selected bacterial infections
• Selected sexually transmitted infections
• Other infectious diseases for which validated PCR assays are available

Important: The exact PCR test menu depends on the laboratory’s validated test kits, current availability, and clinical requirements.

Real-Time PCR / qPCR

Real-Time PCR allows the detection and, where applicable, quantification of specific genetic material during the amplification process.

It can be used for:

• Detection of specific pathogens
• Quantification of viral genetic material
• Monitoring selected infections during treatment
• Follow-up testing when requested by the treating physician

Sample Types

Depending on the specific PCR test, specimens may include:

• Blood
• Serum or plasma
• Nasopharyngeal / respiratory specimens
• Swabs
• Urine
• Stool
• Sputum
• Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), where clinically indicated
• Other specimens according to the specific test requirements

The required specimen, collection method, storage conditions, and transport requirements vary according to the test.

Laboratory Equipment & Technology

The Molecular Diagnostics & PCR Department is supported by modern molecular diagnostic technology, including:

• Automated Nucleic Acid Extraction System
• Real-Time PCR / qPCR System
• PCR amplification and detection equipment
• Dedicated equipment for molecular sample preparation
• Laboratory systems for result analysis and reporting

The laboratory’s molecular testing workflow is designed to minimize contamination risks and maintain appropriate separation between sample preparation, extraction, amplification, and detection processes.

Molecular Testing Workflow

Sample Collection → Sample Preparation → Nucleic Acid Extraction → PCR Setup → Amplification → Detection & Analysis → Quality Control → Result Verification → Final Report

Quality Control

Molecular testing requires strict quality-control procedures. The laboratory uses appropriate controls and standardized procedures to monitor the performance of molecular assays and help ensure reliable results.

Quality measures include:

• Internal quality controls
• Positive and negative controls
• Appropriate calibration and verification procedures
• Monitoring of extraction and amplification processes
• Proper specimen identification and handling
• Contamination-prevention procedures

Reporting

PCR results are reported according to the specific testing method. Depending on the assay, results may be reported as:

• Detected / Not Detected
• Positive / Negative
• Quantitative results, such as viral load, when applicable

Results should be interpreted together with the patient’s clinical history, examination, and other relevant investigations.

Why Molecular Diagnostics?

Molecular testing can provide sensitive and specific detection of genetic material and is an important diagnostic tool for selected infectious and other clinical conditions.