Toll Free Helpline Number
18002101616
Book on Whatsapp
9892101616
Haemophilia - Myths vs. Fact and Diagnosis
Pathology
Mon Aug 07 2023
Haemophilia is generally a genetic bleeding disorder wherein blood fails to clot adequately. It can cause sudden bleeding and even bleeding followed by injuries or surgery. Blood consists of multiple proteins known as clotting factors that can stop the bleeding.
At Manipal TRUtest, we understand the importance of a critical disease like Haemophilia and the impact it has on the lives of people living with Haemophilia. Haemophilia is a rare genetic disorder that affects the blood's ability to clot. This means that even a small injury can cause excessive bleeding, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
People living with Haemophilia face unique challenges in their daily lives, including the need for regular monitoring of their condition, the management of bleeding episodes, and the importance of avoiding injuries that could trigger bleeding. At Manipal TRUtest, we offer a range of diagnostic testing to support people with Haemophilia and their families.
People with Haemophilia require regular testing to monitor their condition and ensure that they are receiving the appropriate treatment. Here are some of the most common tests that are recommended for people with Haemophilia:
Factor level testing: It consists of Factor VIII & Factor IX testing. This test measures the amount of clotting factor in the blood. Factor levels are an essential indicator of how well your treatment is working and help determine the appropriate dose of factor replacement therapy. Factor VIII & IX help to categorize mild, moderate & severe Haemophilia.
Bleeding time test: This test measures the time it takes for a small cut to stop bleeding. People with Haemophilia usually have a prolonged bleeding time, and this test can help your healthcare provider assess your bleeding risk and make adjustments to your treatment plan.
Complete Blood Count (CBC): This test measures the number and quality of blood cells in your body. A CBC can help identify any changes in your blood that may indicate a complication, such as an infection or inflammation.
Inhibitor testing: Inhibitors are antibodies that can develop in response to factor replacement therapy. Inhibitors can reduce the effectiveness of treatment and increase the risk of bleeding. Inhibitor testing is done periodically to monitor the presence of inhibitors in your blood.
Joint imaging: People with Haemophilia are at risk of developing joint damage and arthritis due to repeated bleeding into the joints. Imaging tests, such as X-rays, ultrasounds, or CT Scans/ MRIs, can help your healthcare provider assess the extent of joint damage and develop a treatment plan.
It is important to work closely with your healthcare provider to determine which tests are necessary and how frequently they should be performed. Regular testing is essential to manage Haemophilia effectively and ensure that you are receiving the best possible care.
Myths VS Facts
Myth: Those with Haemophilia will bleed to death if they suffer a cut.
Fact: The truth is that not all bleeds are life-threatening. People with Haemophilia may experience bruising or bleeding into their muscles and joints, which can cause long-term damage if it happens frequently.
Myth: Everyone with Haemophilia will become disabled.
Fact: People with Haemophilia may avoid frequent joint bleeds and long-term joint damage if they receive proper preventative (prophylactic) treatment.
Myth: Children with Haemophilia always have a family history of Haemophilia.
Fact: Haemophilia is generally hereditary, one-third of cases appear to rise individually.
Myth: All types of Haemophilia involve a clotting factor VIII deficiency.
Fact: The most common form of Haemophilia is Haemophilia A, caused by a lack of clotting factor VIII. Haemophilia B is caused by a deficiency in factor IX, while a deficiency causes Haemophilia C in factor XI.
Myth: Almost every Haemophilia patient has similar symptoms.
Fact: Symptoms of Haemophilia A vary depending on factor VIII
Myth: Haemophilia A improves over time.
Fact: Haemophilia A is a lifelong bleeding disorder caused by a lack of clotting factor VIII, which does not improve with age.
Myth: People with Haemophilia are unable to participate in sports.
Fact: Those with Haemophilia can participate in various sports, including swimming and running, with proper treatment, but rough contact sports are usually not recommended.
Myth: Only boys and men are affected by Haemophilia.
Fact: Haemophilia gene is linked to chromosome X. Most Haemophilia patients are men. Haemophilia can affect women also, but it is uncommon.
Myth: People with Haemophilia live for a short time.
Fact: People with Haemophilia today can expect to live a near-normal life expectancy if they can manage their Haemophilia properly, life expectancy is only about 10 years less than healthy men.
Myth: Haemophilia can be cured with iron, specific vitamins, and peanuts.
Fact: Haemophilia has no known cure at present. Replacement therapy for the missing clotting factor VIII and non-factor replacement therapies are currently being used.
Myth: People with Haemophilia only have external bleeds, such as those caused by a cut or graze.
Fact: People with Haemophilia can also experience internal bleeding in their elbow, ankle, and knees.
At Manipal TRUtest, the paramedics provide optimum diagnosis and test reports with excellence and accuracy. To get Haemophilia tested, you can opt for the following tests:
- Complete blood count (CBC): Providers use this test to measure and study blood cells.
- Prothrombin time (PT) test: Providers use this test to see how quickly your blood clots.
- Activated partial thromboplastin time test: This is another blood test to time blood clot formation.
- Specific clotting factor test(s): This blood test show levels of specific clotting factor levels - Factor VIII and Factor IX
We look forward to serving you to ensure a world replete with wellness and vitality.
Related Blogs
Pathology
How Pathology Labs Ensure Accurate Results for Better Treatment
Laboratory tests to provide vital diagnostic information, and pathology labs are fundamental to modern healthcare. Precise and trustworthy testing is essential since the efficacy of medical therapy is directly impacted by the accuracy of the data from these labs. To guarantee the accuracy of their findings and, ultimately, assist medical professionals in making well-informed decisions on patient care, pathology labs use a range of methods, guidelines, and procedures. Here's how pathology laboratories guarantee precise findings that lead to improved care.
1. Use of Advanced Technology
Modern diagnostic tools and automated systems are purchased by pathology labs in order to improve test accuracy. For example, automated analysers ensure faster, more accurate findings with less human error when utilised for tasks like chemical analysis and blood cell counting. Technology breakthroughs like mass spectrometry to find biomarkers or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for genetic testing enable labs to provide extremely specific tests that can diagnose illnesses in their earliest stages. By using these technologies, the lab can produce more precise and dependable data for improved treatment results.
2. Quality Control and Assurance
Maintaining the accuracy of results in pathology labs requires regular quality control (QC) activities. These protocols involve recalibration, regular inspections of laboratory equipment, and the use of control samples to ensure test accuracy. Additionally, lab staff members receive continual training to stay up to date on the latest methods and best practices. Furthermore, proficiency testing helps guarantee that testing procedures adhere to necessary standards by sending unknown samples to labs for testing and result comparison. This dedication to quality control is essential for preventing mistakes that can affect a patient's diagnosis and course of therapy.
3. Accurate Sample Handling
To guarantee reliable pathology results, sample processing must be done correctly. A sample's integrity may be jeopardised by improper sample collection, storage, or transportation, which could produce inaccurate results. When collecting samples, pathology labs adhere to strict protocols, which include utilising the appropriate containers and keeping the samples at the proper temperature. Samples should be clearly labelled with test information and patient identification to assist avoid contamination or confusion. Each sample is handled carefully by lab staff, who are trained to make sure it arrives at the lab in the best possible condition for analysis.
4. Collaboration with Healthcare Providers
Accurate results and wise treatment choices depend on pathology labs and healthcare professionals communicating effectively. To ensure that the right tests are conducted, pathologists frequently confer with physicians to elucidate the specifics of a patient's symptoms or medical history. Pathologists may get in touch with medical professionals to talk about more testing or different diagnostic strategies if the test results are ambiguous or need more research. This teamwork guarantees that the test results result in precise diagnoses and successful treatment strategies.
Conclusion
Effective healthcare depends critically on the pathology labs' test results being accurate. Pathology labs guarantee the accuracy and dependability of test results by following established procedures, utilising cutting-edge technology, implementing stringent quality control procedures, handling samples precisely, and working in tandem with medical professionals. In the end, these initiatives improve patient outcomes and advance healthcare by assisting physicians in making precise diagnoses and creating individualised treatment programs.
Pathology
How to Choose Affordable and Reliable Pathology Labs Near Pune
When you're searching for a decent pathology lab in and around Pune, it can be a bit tricky. Be that as it may, you can definitely relax! Picking the right lab is easier than you think. You simply have to know what to search for. We should discuss how you can find a lab that is both trustworthy and affordable.
Why a Decent Lab Matters
Suppose you're feeling unwell, and your doctor asks for tests to find out for what valid reason. The medical reports from the lab let your doctor know what's up. Thus, if the lab isn't great, the results probably won't be right. That is the reason picking a reliable e lab is so significant. The test results should be flawless.
Check their Reputation
To begin with, make an inquiry or two. Your companions, family, or even your primary care physician could know a decent lab close by. A lab with a solid standing is much of the time a protected decision. Numerous labs presently have audits on the web. Perusing these can let you know others' thought process. Assuming that most surveys are great, that is a green banner!
Search for Certificate
A top-notch lab is a reliable lab. Licenses and certifications mean the lab observes severe guidelines to guarantee precise outcomes. When you visit or call the lab, inquire as to whether they're registered. If they gladly say "Yes," it's a sign they care about quality.
Get some information about Costs
Excellent labs don't need to be costly. Call a couple of labs and request the costs of standard medical tests. Comparing expenses can assist you with tracking down a reasonable choice. A few labs likewise offer discounts or packages for different tests. If you're on a tight spending plan, these arrangements can be exceptionally useful.
Inquiring about the Staff and Gear
A lab is just on par with individuals and devices inside it. Cordial and thoroughly prepared staff have a major effect. Present day gear is likewise key for speedy and exact outcomes. If you visit the lab, notice assuming that it looks spotless and coordinated. These seemingly insignificant details can inform you a ton regarding their quality.
The Location Factor
Nobody likes traveling excessively far, particularly if you're not feeling great. Pick a lab near your home or office. A few labs have doorstep collection services, where they come to your home. This can save you time, money, and energy.
Speedy and Simple Reports
Waiting for reports can be upsetting. A decent lab gives reports quickly without committing errors. Numerous labs presently offer reports on the web. You can download them from your mobile phone or PC. This is really convenient!
Take as much time as necessary
Picking the right pathology lab near Pune is critical to monitor your health. Try not to rush the choice. By following these tips, you can find a lab that is dependable, reasonable, and ideal for your requirements. You can select Manipal TruTest to know more information concerning pathology tests.
Pathology
Murine Typhus: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention Tips
A rare case of murine typhus has recently been identified in Kerala, drawing attention to this uncommon bacterial infection transmitted by fleas. Although rare, murine typhus can cause a range of symptoms that are often mistaken for other, more common infections, making it challenging to diagnose and treat quickly. Here’s an overview of murine typhus, its symptoms, diagnostic methods, and prevention tips.
What is Murine Typhus?
Murine typhus, also known as endemic typhus, is a bacterial disease caused by Rickettsia typhi, primarily spread through the bite of infected fleas. While cases are uncommon, people living in areas with warm climates or where contact with rodents and flea-infested animals is frequent have a slightly higher risk. Fleas carrying Rickettsia typhi can transmit the bacteria to humans, resulting in a range of uncomfortable and potentially severe symptoms if left untreated.
Key Symptoms to Watch For
Symptoms of murine typhus often begin gradually, typically around 7-14 days after exposure. The early signs are flu-like, making it easy to confuse with common viral infections. Key symptoms may include:
- High Fever: Sudden onset of fever, often with chills.
- Headache: A persistent, throbbing headache that can last for days.
- Body and Muscle Aches: Widespread pain and soreness in the muscles and joints.
- Rash: Small, red spots may develop, beginning on the trunk and spreading to limbs.
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea, vomiting, and sometimes abdominal pain.
In more severe cases, if not treated promptly, murine typhus can lead to complications such as pneumonia, liver or kidney damage, or central nervous system involvement.
Diagnosing Murine Typhus
Diagnosing murine typhus can be difficult since symptoms overlap with several other illnesses, including viral infections like dengue and flu. Here are some recommended diagnostic tests to confirm a murine typhus infection:
- Blood Tests: A complete blood count can help detect abnormalities in white blood cells and platelets, which may suggest infection.
- Serology Testing: Testing for antibodies specific to Rickettsia typhi can confirm a recent or active infection. However, antibodies may take some time to appear in the blood.
- Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR): PCR tests on blood samples can detect the DNA of Rickettsia typhi, making it one of the most reliable methods for early detection.
- Immunohistochemical Staining: This test, typically done on tissue samples, can identify bacterial presence in the body.
Treatment and Recovery
Once diagnosed, murine typhus is typically treated with antibiotics, most commonly doxycycline. Early treatment is important to reduce the duration and severity of symptoms. Those who receive prompt treatment usually recover within a few weeks, though lingering symptoms like fatigue may persist for some time.
Prevention Tips
Preventing murine typhus mainly involves minimizing exposure to fleas and animals that might carry them. Here are some practical prevention steps:
- Limit Exposure to Rodents: Maintain a clean environment to discourage rodent infestations.
- Use Flea Control Products: Pet owners should use flea control treatments on animals to reduce the risk of fleas entering the home.
- Wear Protective Clothing: When spending time outdoors or in areas with rodents, wear long sleeves and pants to minimize exposure.
- Keep Living Spaces Clean: Regularly clean and vacuum to prevent flea infestation indoors.
