| Question |
Answer |
| Pregnancy testing is based on detection of what hormone? |
hCG |
| Does a positive reaction to any pregnancy test always indicate a normal pregnancy? |
No |
| What abnormal conditions can the detection of hCG indicate? |
Ectopic pregnancy, hydatiform mole of the uterus, choriocarcinoma, cancer of the lung, stomach, pancreas, colon, or breast |
| What is the preferred specimen for pregnancy testing and why? |
First morning void because it will have the highest concentratioin of hCG. |
| What are some different types of pregnancy tests and what kind of specimen is required. |
Blood specimen- serum, agglutination inhibition, and enzyme immunoassay Urine- over the counter |
| What does hCG stand for? |
human chorionic gonadotropin |
| What is infectious mononucleosis? |
Contagious disease that may have vague clinical symptoms and mimic other diseases. |
| What is a common nickname for IM? |
the kissing disease or mono |
| What is IM a result of? |
infection of lymphocytes by the Epstein-Barr Virus |
| How is EBV IM primarily transmitted? |
Saliva |
| What other ways can EBV be spread? |
Sharing drinking glasses, blood transfusions |
| What is the best way to prevent transmission of EBV? |
Careful handwashing |
| What is the average incubation period for IM? |
7-14 days |
| In what age group is IM most often observed? |
15-25 years old |
| What are the initial symptoms of IM and how long do they last? |
Fever and swollen glands for 3-5 days |
| IM in younger children is usually asymptomatic or has minor symptoms such as___ _____ _____ ______? |
pharyngitis, otitis media, bronchitis, and other upper respiratory discomforts |
| After fever and swollen glands what symptoms may develop over the next 7-20 days with IM? |
Headache, malaise, chest pain, cough, tonsillitis, rash, soft swollen lymph nodes, swollen spleen. |
| Why might a patient with IM be advised to refrain from contact sports and rough activities? |
To prevent rupture of the spleen. |
| Are there any drugs that are effective against EBV IM? |
No |
| What must the physician consider to properly diagnose IM? |
Blood and serology tests along with patient's symptoms. |
| What does PT test for? |
Bloods clotting ability |
| What kind of medication would a patient be on if they are having a PT? |
An anticoagulant such as Coumadin (warfarin) |
| What are the desired levels of INR? |
2.0 - 3.0 |