MLO - Medical Laboratory Observer

11/24/2025

A recent study found that 1 in 5 women with vaginitis also tested positive for an STI—and coinfection rates were even higher among those positive for BV.

Without lab confirmation, these cases can easily be missed, leading to repeat visits, persistent symptoms, and further transmission.

NAAT-based testing gives labs and clinicians the clarity needed to act with confidence—detecting multiple pathogens from one sample and improving both patient care and efficiency.

Read more about how labs can help close the diagnostic gap: https://bit.ly/4oBMBgP.

Vaginitis is the most common vaginal condition among women aged 15–44, and one of the leading causes of OB/GYN visits in the U.S. every year.1,2 The primary cause of vaginitis...

11/21/2025

In the United States, cardiovascular disease claims a life every 33 seconds. Read this to aid diagnosis and more accurately predict patient risk.

Unlock the full expert interview to learn how your lab can help clinicians intervene earlier and improve outcomes.

11/20/2025

What’s shaping molecular diagnostics in 2025?

Over 100 medical laboratory professionals told us where MDx is heading, and the trends are striking:

• Demand is shifting toward non-COVID infectious disease testing
• Respiratory testing is stabilizing, with more labs reporting decreases
• Rapid molecular testing is gaining traction, even as rRT-qPCR stays dominant
• AI/ML tools aren’t widely adopted yet, but curiosity is growing
• Supply chain pressures continue to ease, giving labs breathing room
• Quality assurance practices are strengthening, especially around preventing false positives

From customizable syndromic panels to self-collection trends in women’s health, lab leaders and vendors share what’s driving testing decisions—and what’s coming next.

💬 How do these trends compare with what you’re seeing in your lab?

Dive deeper into the results and voices shaping the MDx landscape:
👉 Read the full article on MLO: https://bit.ly/4pfU70G?

Survey of 100+ medical laboratory professionals reveals changing MDx testing patterns, improved supply stability, cautious AI adoption, and a strong focus on quality assurance...

11/18/2025

Proficiency testing is more than a score — it’s an opportunity to strengthen your lab’s performance. In this MLO exclusive, API addresses real-world lab questions on using PT data for improvement and more: https://bit.ly/43Fbobt?

Thank you for submitting your proficiency testing questions. API Abby is here with answers! The American Proficiency Institute (API) is pleased to share its technical expertise...

11/17/2025

Laboratories play a central role in accurate autoimmune disease diagnosis—but ANA interpretation gets complicated when mixed or masked patterns are missed.

A new white paper examines why serial dilution remains critical in HEp-2 IFA and outlines the impact of relying on single-dilution estimates.

Read the full analysis: https://bit.ly/3LL8POL?

This article discusses the significance of anti-nuclear antibody (ANA) testing in diagnosing systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases (SARDs), emphasizing the need for serial dilutions...

11/13/2025

Heading to AMP 2025 this week? We’d love to see you! Stop by MLO Booth #1045 through Saturday to connect with our team and explore the latest peer-authored insights in molecular diagnostics, lab management, regulatory updates, and more.

11/12/2025

What does it take to keep today’s lab professionals motivated and engaged?
💬 According to Michelle Westfort, it starts with career clarity, education access, and recognition that feels real.

In this MLO interview, she explores:
🔹 The three most in-demand skills in the modern lab — from data literacy and AI integration to compliance expertise and durable “human” skills.
🔹 How “earn while you learn” programs are helping labs boost retention and save millions.
🔹 Why clear education ladders and recognition programs are transforming lab culture.

💡 One stat that stands out: labs offering full-tuition education programs saw $12 million in savings from reduced attrition over two years.

If your lab is looking to build a stronger, future-ready workforce — this is a must-read.

👉 Read the full interview: https://www.mlo-online.com/online-exclusives/article/55326022/giving-lab-workers-a-reason-to-stay?

Q&A with Michelle Westfort

11/10/2025

Vaginitis is more than a routine OB/GYN complaint—it’s a diagnostic challenge with real consequences for women’s health.

🔬 Recent research shows that up to 20% of women with vaginitis may also have a concurrent STI. Misdiagnosis or empirical treatment can lead to repeated visits, prolonged symptoms, and unnecessary antibiotic use.

NAAT-based testing is changing the game:
• Detects multiple pathogens from a single sample
• Improves lab efficiency and workflow
• Supports targeted, guideline-based treatment
• Enhances patient care and satisfaction

Discover how laboratories can embrace NAAT technology to elevate care: Read more: https://bit.ly/4oBMBgP

Vaginitis is the most common vaginal condition among women aged 15–44, and one of the leading causes of OB/GYN visits in the U.S. every year.1,2 The primary cause of vaginitis...

11/07/2025

Proficiency testing is more than a score — it’s a window into your lab’s performance.

In our latest feature, the American Proficiency Institute (API) answers real-world questions from laboratory professionals — covering everything from:
🔹 Using proficiency testing data to improve performance, not just pass
🔹 Turning PT results into teachable moments for your staff
🔹 Handling reagent backorders without compromising compliance
🔹 Understanding CLIA vs. accreditation requirements

Each Q&A offers practical, actionable advice straight from API’s technical experts — designed to help labs uphold the highest standards of accuracy and reliability.

📖 Read the full column: https://www.mlo-online.com/management/regulatory/article/55319305/dear-api-abby

Thank you for submitting your proficiency testing questions. API Abby is here with answers! The American Proficiency Institute (API) is pleased to share its technical expertise...

10/30/2025

Did you hear? The CAP announced they will be offering 21 new proficiency testing (PT) and external quality assessment (EQA) programs in 2026. The list includes many firsts, according to the organization. Read more here: https://bit.ly/4owiUxL

The College of American Pathologists (CAP) announced 21 new proficiency testing and external quality assessment programs for 2026, including groundbreaking global HIV-1/HIV-2 ...

10/28/2025

Recruiting new lab professionals is challenging—but retaining great ones can be even harder.

In this insightful Q&A, Michelle Westfort speaks with MLO Editor-in-Chief Christina Wichmann about how labs can foster a culture where people want to stay and grow.

Read the full conversation: https://bit.ly/47vkxUS

Q&A with Michelle Westfort

10/16/2025

In this MLO online exclusive interview, NETEC Laboratory Workgroup co-chairs Vicki Herrera, MS and Dr. Colleen Kraft, MD discuss the advantages of adopting the NSPS Level 2 Resource Guide in laboratories with MLO Editor-in-Chief, Christina Wichmann: https://bit.ly/3KQBjpQ

This Q&A was developed with the co-chairs of the NETEC Laboratory Workgroup: ·      Vicki Herrera, MS – Research Coordinator at the University...