Answers from the Lab

Audrey Schuetz, M.D., discusses Mayo Clinic Laboratories' PCR assay that identifies two recently described staphylococcus species: Staphylococcus argenteus and Staphylococcus schweitzeri. Both species are genetically related to Staphylococcus aureus, one of the most important bacteria that cause disease in humans. Short of whole-genome sequencing, Mayo Clinic Laboratories’ molecular real-time PCR assay is the only way to adequately differentiate among these staphylococcus species. Correct identification can clarify laboratory reports and guide clinicians' treatment decisions.

Show Notes

(00:32):
Today, we will be discussing staphylococcal testing at Mayo Clinic Laboratories. Before we start, Dr. Schuetz, could you please provide our listeners with a little bit about you and your background?

 (01:02):
As we get started on this initiative, can you provide a brief overview of this testing and its intended use?

 (02:36):
Could you describe for us which patients should have this testing and when it should be performed — including how this new testing improves upon previous testing approaches?

 (04:47):
What makes our testing unique?

 (05:45):
How are the results from this PCR testing used in patient care?

What is Answers from the Lab?

A Mayo Clinic curated podcast sharing Mayo Clinic knowledge and advancements on the state of testing, science, and people who are making it happen behind the scenes.