A Wood's lamp uses ultraviolet light. Certain fungi (like Microsporum) and bacteria (like Pseudomonas) fluoresce under this light, aiding in the diagnosis of specific skin and scalp infections.
14012
Which marker is most useful in screening for 'Prostate Cancer'?
PSA is a protein produced by the prostate gland. While elevated PSA can occur in benign conditions (like BPH or prostatitis), it is the primary marker used to screen for and monitor prostate cancer.
14013
What is the primary diagnostic test for 'Malaria'?
The thick smear is used for screening (higher sensitivity), while the thin smear allows for the identification of the specific Plasmodium species and the calculation of parasite density (parasitemia).
14014
Which condition is diagnosed using the 'Schilling Test' (though now largely historical)?
The Schilling test was used to determine if a patient was absorbing B12 properly and to distinguish between different causes of malabsorption, such as a lack of intrinsic factor (Pernicious Anemia).
14015
Which screening tool is used to detect 'Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm' (AAA)?
Ultrasound is the preferred screening method for AAA, especially in men aged 65–75 who have ever smoked, as it is non-invasive and highly accurate at measuring aortic diameter.
14016
Which blood test is used specifically to monitor the effectiveness of Warfarin therapy?
The International Normalized Ratio (INR), derived from PT, is the standard for monitoring Warfarin (Coumadin). aPTT is primarily used to monitor unfractionated heparin therapy.
Cystic Fibrosis affects the salt-regulating protein in cells. The sweat chloride test measures the amount of chloride in sweat; high levels are diagnostic for the condition in symptomatic individuals.
14018
What is the primary diagnostic indicator for 'Celiac Disease' found in blood tests?
The tTG-IgA antibody test is the most sensitive and specific blood test for Celiac Disease. If positive, it is usually followed by an endoscopic biopsy of the small intestine to confirm the diagnosis.
14019
Which test is the gold standard for diagnosing Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
Polysomnography is a comprehensive test that records brain waves, oxygen levels, heart rate, and breathing during sleep, allowing for the calculation of the Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI).
14020
Which imaging technique is the preferred first-line screening for Gallstones?
Ultrasound is the highly sensitive and specific first-line test for Cholelithiasis (gallstones). It is non-invasive, does not use radiation, and can easily identify stones within the gallbladder.
