Bridging Diagnostic Gaps: Utilising HiCrome Agar and Tetrazolium Reduction Medium for the Rapid and Presumptive Identification and Speciation of Candida Species in Vulvovaginal Candidiasis in Low-Resource Environments.

Background Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a common fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of species, primarily (). Using HiCrome agar and tetrazolium reduction medium offers cost-effectiveness in detection by eliminating the need for additional tests, reducing equipment costs compared to automated systems, and simplifying workflow with direct species identification while maintaining high specificity. They expedite detection by directly identifying species based on colony colour, bypassing the multiple steps of phenotypic methods.

Salmonella Peritonitis Secondary to Gastroduodenal Perforation: An Unusual Presentation of Enteric Fever.

-induced peritonitis, secondary to spontaneous gastrointestinal perforation, is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition. We present a case of a 62-year-old female with a history of systemic hypertension, who presented with diffuse abdominal pain and altered bowel habits. Initial evaluation suggested acute gastroenteritis, but worsening symptoms led to emergent exploratory laparotomy, revealing a gastric/duodenal perforation.

Antimicrobial Archetypes: Assessing the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) Trends in Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and Antimicrobial Stewardship Program (AMSP) Among Faculties, Residents, and Interns in a Tertiary Care Hospital.

Background Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is caused by inappropriate use of antimicrobials. India's high antibiotic use contributes significantly to AMR. Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs (AMSPs) are crucial for optimizing antimicrobial use.

Examining Diagnostic Efficacy: GeneXpert Versus Traditional Staining Techniques With Culture in the Diagnosis of Tuberculosis.

Introduction The tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis involves various methods, such as microscopic examination, culture-based methods, molecular techniques, chest X-rays, serological tests, and interferon-gamma release assays. These methods help identify and confirm TB and its resistance to rifampicin, balancing speed and accuracy for prompt treatment initiation and effective disease management. Aims and objectives To assess the diagnostic accuracy of GeneXpert, Ziehl-Neelsen staining, and fluorescence staining compared to culture media in TB-suspected patients.

Association of Urinary Tract Infection in Married Women Presenting with Urinary Incontinence in a Hospital based Population.

Introduction: Urinary incontinence (UI) is increasingly recognized as a significant health problem, which remains a hygienic as well as social problem. Women have higher risk of developing incontinence in their lifetime compared with men. Urinary tract infection can increase the incidence of incontinence.