Blood Bank
This reaction is caused by cytokines released from donor white cells or recipient antibodies against them—talk about a leukocyte feud.
What is a febrile non-hemolytic transfusion reaction?
This lab technique has more cycles than a soap opera, and just like your favorite drama, it always ends with a big amplification.
What is polymerase chain reaction (PCR)?
The best-dressed microorganism under the microscope, known for its thick capsule and India ink debut.
What is Cryptococcus neoformans?
If Dracula had a urinalysis, the presence of this might finally confirm his “condition.”
What is hemoglobin (or blood) in urine?
This antibody is small, sneaky, and crosses the placenta with ease—making it a top offender in hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn.
What is anti-D?
This kind of mutation switches one amino acid for another—basically the molecular version of casting the wrong actor in a key role.
What is a missense mutation?
If Sherlock Holmes ran a heterophile antibody test and saw reactive lymphocytes on a smear, he’d diagnose this illness.
What is Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)?
In Mean Girls, Regina George would probably say this if she saw a positive Gram stain:
What is “You can’t sit with us... unless you’re Gram-positive!”?
This antibody doesn’t discriminate—it reacts with nearly every red cell it meets, making compatibility testing your new full-time job.
What is an antibody to a high-incidence antigen (e.g., anti-k, anti-Kpb, anti-Lub)?
Forget doing one gene at a time—this method’s motto is “Why not do the whole genome while we’re at it?”
What is next-generation sequencing (NGS)?
This parasite would win “Best Actor in a Bowel Drama” for its starring role in amebic dysentery.
What is Entamoeba histolytica?
What pop song would most accurately describe PCR cycling?
What is “Hot n Cold” by Katy Perry?