Bloody Minded

Grab your hot beverage of choice and come out of the cold as we give you a warm welcome to the world of cold-dependent antibodies! No need to cry(o) as we unpack CAD vs CAS, get personal with PCH and gaze without alliteration at whatever the hell cryoglobulins are.  If you're desperate for a medical reason to move to the tropics, this is the episode for you.00:58 - Deliberately inflammatory pop-culture discussions02:45 - Clearing up nomenclature6:12 - How cold is cold?8:40 - Clinical case and problems with the FBC13:27 - Testing for Cold Agglutinins & What are they binding?16:14 - CAD, CAS and Causes21:41 - Management - Stay toasty28:07 - Cold Agg Summary29:40 - Cryoglobulins36:45 - Cryglobulinaemia SummaryNB We actually ran out of time to talk about PCH so apologies - keep an eye out in future episodesSupport the showCheck out show notes, additional references and (sometimes) extra content at www.bloodyminded.com.au

Dive into the puzzling world of warm autoimmune hemolytic anemia, where IgG antibodies wreak havoc on red blood cells. Discover fascinating insights into diagnostic tests and the complexities of this condition. The hosts discuss its ties to viral infections, malignancies, and even pregnancy. Learn about the unique challenges of managing hemolysis in patients, including immunosuppression strategies and the role of splenectomy. Plus, get ready for a wild ride through various hemolysis types and their implications in medical scenarios!

Dive into the world of hematology as the hosts break down the enigmatic red cell fragments, schistocytes. Discover how these misshapen cells originate and their significance in conditions like MAHA and DIC. Unravel the mysteries of coagulation disorders such as TTP and aHUS, and learn about the crucial role of the enzyme ADAMTS-13 in blood health. With a mix of humor and serious insights, this discussion is essential for anyone interested in understanding blood disorders and their implications in patient care.

Discover the intriguing world of the Direct Antiglobulin Test, a crucial tool in diagnosing immune-mediated hemolysis. The hosts dive into its historical context and the science behind the test, making complex concepts accessible and entertaining. Learn about the meticulous laboratory processes and the significance of interpreting positive and negative results. They also discuss the complexities of immune system interactions and potential errors to watch out for. It’s a thrilling blend of hematology and storytelling that unravels the mysteries of red blood cell health!

Dive into the fascinating world of haemolysis as the hosts discuss its clinical implications and testing challenges. Discover the significance of reticulocytes and LDH in understanding red blood cell breakdown. Enjoy insights on bilirubin metabolism, including a lighthearted nod to Gilbert's syndrome. Learn about the Direct Antiglobulin Test and how it helps differentiate between types of hemolysis. The blend of humor and medical insight makes this topic both engaging and educational for budding medical professionals.

Dive into the fascinating world of blood and discover its essential roles beyond mere sustenance. Learn about the mysterious origins of blood cells and their differentiation, revealing the complexities of hematopoiesis. Unpack the significance of red blood cells, their incredible lifecycle, and the crucial ingredients needed for their creation, including iron and vitamin B12. Explore the implications of nutrient deficiencies and their connections to anemia. It's a deep yet engaging exploration that educates while keeping it lively and fun!

Dr. Maeve Crowley, a consultant hematologist from Cork University Hospital, shares her expertise in hemostasis and thrombosis, highlighting the fascinating role of snake venoms in clinical testing. She discusses the practical uses of snake venom assays, particularly in lupus anticoagulant testing, and tackles the complexities of anticoagulation challenges. The conversation also delves into treatment strategies for antiphospholipid syndrome, weighing traditional and novel therapies. Tune in for an enlightening journey from lab discoveries to their clinical applications!

Dive into the captivating world of snake venom and its unexpected role in laboratory hematology. Discover how snake venoms, like those from the Russell Viper, are used in critical coagulation tests. Learn about the fascinating assays such as dilute Russell Viper Venom Time and the clinical implications of venom components for diagnosing clotting disorders. Gain insights into the challenges posed by innovative anticoagulants and the significance of expert collaboration in ensuring accurate laboratory testing.

Dive into the fascinating world of the Bethesda Assay, a crucial test for hemophilia that has baffled trainees for years. Discover how this assay measures factor inhibitors and learn about its significant modifications to enhance accuracy. The discussion also navigates the complexities of coagulation testing in diverse patient conditions, shedding light on the nuances of factor VIII inhibitors. With a playful blend of education and personal anecdotes, this conversation equips listeners with insights essential for mastering this challenging aspect of hematology.

Dive into the fascinating realm of factor assays, exploring one-stage versus two-stage methodologies and their roles in diagnosing blood conditions. Uncover the historical context of factor VIII and its importance in hemophilia A treatments. Learn about the challenges of identifying Factor 13 deficiencies and how biotin enhances laboratory testing. The hosts also discuss discrepancies in testing results, emphasizing accuracy and clinical context in interpreting outcomes. It's a blend of science and storytelling that sheds light on critical aspects of hematology!