In diagnostic pathology, a primary use of IHC for infectious disease is the identification and localization of specific microbial antigens within tissue sections. While cultures and molecular tests identify the organism, IHC shows the direct relationship between the microbe and the tissue damage (the histopathologic lesions). This is crucial for establishing a causative diagnosis. IHC can detect organisms that are difficult to culture (e.g., Tropheryma whipplei in Whipple's disease), are present in low numbers, have atypical morphology, or are non-viable due to treatment. It can distinguish between similar-looking organisms in tissue (e.g., different herpesviruses) and can highlight the spatial distribution of the pathogen—whether it's intracellular, in macrophages, or causing specific patterns of inflammation. Examples include detecting Cytomegalovirus (CMV) in lung tissue, Helicobacter pylori in stomach biopsies, or specific viral antigens in cases of viral encephalitis.

Break down complex topics into smaller, manageable chunks for easier recall.

Zambia

• Naomi Miselo – 31 pts

• Visual Pathway Lesions
• Positive and Negative Symptoms
• Hallucinations and Delusions
• Antipsychotic Medications
• Emergency: Environmental Emergencies