Microbiology and Molecular Biology Services at Healthways Medical Diagnostic Centre (HWMDC)

At HWMDC, our Microbiology and Molecular Biology Department is led by experienced medical microbiologists and supported by skilled laboratory technologists. We provide state-of-the-art diagnostic solutions for a wide range of infectious diseases that are prevalent in the region, helping healthcare providers deliver timely and accurate diagnoses.

Culture & Antimicrobial Drug Susceptibility Testing

We offer comprehensive culture and sensitivity testing to identify microbial pathogens responsible for both community-acquired and hospital-acquired infections, including:

• Tuberculosis
• Salmonella infections (Typhoid)
• Water-borne diseases (including bacteriological examination of drinking water)
• Sexually transmitted infections (Chlamydia, HIV/AIDS)
• Common fungal infections

Our advanced testing methods enable accurate detection of these infections and help guide appropriate treatment plans.

Tuberculosis Diagnostics

Despite medical advancements, the accurate and early diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB) remains a challenge in many healthcare setups. At HWMDC, we are committed to providing rapid, reliable, and cost-effective TB diagnostics. Our comprehensive range of TB tests includes:

1. AFB Smear Microscopy
2. Tuberculin Skin Test (TST) – Mantoux Test
3. AFB Culture using the BACTEC MGIT 960 System (Becton Dickinson)
4. Interferon Gamma Release Assay (IGRA): T.SPOT-TB and Quantiferon TB GOLD
5. Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests (NATs) by PCR: GenoType MTBDRplus (drug susceptibility testing for first-line anti-TB drugs)
6. Rapid Immunochromatographic Assays (ICT)
7. Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assays (ELISA)

Additionally, our blood culture system (VersaTrek TM) detects pressure changes in blood culture bottles, enabling faster results—typically within 12 hours—with an increased recovery rate of pathogens and optimal neutralization of antibiotics.

We are also one of the few laboratories in Pakistan offering antifungal drug susceptibility testing for Candida infections.

Quality Assurance

We uphold the authenticity of our microbiological investigations through a rigorous internal quality assurance program. Furthermore, we participate regularly in External Quality Assurance (EQA) programs like those of the College of American Pathologists (CAP).

Virology Services

Our Virology Department offers highly sensitive diagnostic tests for a variety of viral infections:

1. Viral Hepatitis
   We provide comprehensive assays for all major types of viral hepatitis, including:

   • Hepatitis A (IgG and IgM)
   • Hepatitis B profile (HBsAg, HBsAb, anti-HBc total and IgM, HBeAg and HBeAb)
   • Hepatitis C (antibody tests and PCR for viral load assessment)
   • Hepatitis E (IgG and IgM)

   Hepatitis B and C can lead to chronic conditions such as cirrhosis and liver cancer, making early detection crucial for effective treatment. We offer molecular diagnosis (PCR) and viral load assessment (HBV-DNA, HCV-RNA) for these infections.

2. COVID-19
   Our molecular lab is equipped to conduct Real-Time PCR testing for COVID-19, alongside COVID-19 antigen and antibody testing through ICR and ELISA.

3. HIV/AIDS
   We offer 4th generation ELISA testing for HIV detection, using the HIV I/II Ag-Ab combo test.

To schedule an appointment or to learn more about our microbiology services, please contact the Patient Services Department at:
UAN #: 051 5562562

Disclaimer:
All diagnostic tests, while based on scientifically accepted methods, may have limitations such as false positives or negatives. These limitations are not considered negligence. If such situations arise, we offer a free repeat test within 24-48 hours.