Medical Diagnosis

Color differences in aspirated fluids as a simple diagnostic indicator of PEG tube-related gastric outlet obstruction

Lab-grown diamond device might change how we measure radiation doses

Expanded tuberculosis screening does not speed up treatment initiation or improve survival in hospitalized patients with HIV

A clinical trial found that adding molecular tests on urine and stool samples did not speed up treatment initiation or reduce mortality in hospitalized patients with HIV. The study showed no significant difference in treatment initiation within 72 hours between the expanded screening group and the standard group.

New ultrasonic needle yields samples 2–3 times larger, potentially reshaping cancer diagnostics

Exeter leads rare disease global genetic testing project, improving access and saving young lives

A global partnership has provided life-saving genetic testing for over 1,100 families worldwide, improving treatment options for children with congenital hyperinsulinism. The Open Hyperinsulinism Genes Project combines cutting-edge genetics expertise with funding from a charity organization to expand access to rapid genomic testing.

Scientists find blood-based biomarkers for inflammatory breast cancer

Researchers at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center have identified specific blood-based genomic biomarkers that distinguish inflammatory breast cancer from other subtypes. The study used an improved method of RNA sequencing, called TGIRT sequencing, which allowed for a more comprehensive overview of all RNA types and amou...

Online autism diagnoses found to be effective

A new telehealth tool developed by UCR professor Katherine Meltzoff expands access to autism diagnoses for older children with more verbal speech. The study showed promising results in matching the accuracy of traditional in-person evaluations, offering a potential solution to long-standing barriers.

Marker of biological aging linked to cognitive symptoms of depression

Researchers found that accelerated biological aging of a type of white blood cell called monocytes is linked to cognitive and mood-related symptoms of depression. This discovery could lead to earlier diagnosis and personalized treatment for depression, particularly in high-risk populations such as women with HIV.

New study finds low-dose eye drops successful in managing adult myopia for 24 hours

A new study published in Eye and Vision finds that one drop of low-dose atropine can produce daylong effects in managing myopia. The researchers found that the drop showed clear changes in pupil size and focusing ability, but no short-term structural effects on the eye.

I’m concerned about anxiety—what do I need to know?

This article provides an overview of anxiety disorders, including their symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options. The study found that anxiety disorders can be effectively managed with a combination of therapy and medication.

American Thoracic Society announces landmark initiative to improve diagnosis of bronchiectasis across the United States

The American Thoracic Society has launched a quality improvement initiative to tackle the underdiagnosis of bronchiectasis in the US. The study aims to investigate the scope of the problem and drive meaningful change in how the disease is identified and managed.

Medical AI moving faster than safety checks

Flinders University experts caution that AI's impressive capabilities do not automatically translate into safe use for patients. The researchers stress the need for strong governance and clearer standards for evaluation to ensure AI supports doctors in busy care settings.

Blood tests taken years earlier linked to pregnancy risk

A new study from Karolinska Institutet found that small abnormalities in blood sugar, lipids, and inflammation years before pregnancy are associated with an increased risk of high blood pressure during pregnancy and pre-eclampsia. The findings may contribute to earlier risk assessment and preventive measures.

AI tool may spot adhd years before children are diagnosed

Researchers developed an AI tool that analyzes routine electronic health records to predict ADHD risk in children years before a typical diagnosis. The model accurately identified risk in children age 5 and older, with consistent performance across patient characteristics.

USC and Tempus form strategic collaboration aimed at accelerating innovation across research and patient care

The Keck School of Medicine of USC and Tempus are creating a system-wide framework to integrate clinical care, clinical trials, and research through AI-powered precision medicine tools. The goal is to enhance patient care and accelerate research and innovation.

Disparities in disease presentation and treatment initiation for de novo metastatic breast cancer

A cross-sectional study of patients with de novo metastatic breast cancer found racial and ethnic disparities in disease presentation. De novo metastatic breast cancer disproportionately contributes to breast cancer mortality in the U.S., emphasizing the need for tailored interventions to improve care delivery and outcomes.

USC-led team receives funding to build next-generation medical device that uses tears to monitor health

A USC-led team is working on a medical device that uses tears to monitor health, starting with dry eye disease. The device aims to provide continuous monitoring and automated medication delivery, improving patient comfort and treatment efficacy.

Tiny probe tracks key health signals simultaneously

The new fiber probe can track three key biomarkers - glucose, lactate, and ethanol - simultaneously, providing a more complete picture of metabolic health. This innovation offers faster, real-time sensing technologies for clinicians to respond rapidly to evolving metabolic crises.

Biosensor identifies pancreatic cancer in early stages

Researchers developed an electrochemical sensor to detect pancreatic cancer at low concentrations, improving accessibility and effectiveness of treatment. The device identifies CA19-9 protein, a key biomarker for the disease, allowing for early diagnosis and potentially increasing survival rates.

Millions suffering needlessly with curable hepatitis C, new analysis reveals

A new analysis found that prescriptions for curable hepatitis C drugs have declined sharply in recent years, leaving millions without treatment. The researchers urge swift actions to deliver the drugs to those who need them, including increased screening and system-level changes.

Oral-gut axis points to salivary biomarkers for early gastric cancer detection

A recent study identified distinct microbial signatures in the oral cavity and gut that serve as robust biomarkers for early gastric cancer detection. These microbial markers can be detected in saliva or stool samples using machine learning models, achieving an AUROC of 0.87 for saliva-based detection.

Novel 3D brain marker predicts surgical success in dementia-causing hydrocephalus

Researchers have identified a new geometric marker of the brain ventricles that can predict which patients with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) will benefit from shunt surgery. The study found that a specific geometric feature, asphericity, is strongly associated with better surgical outcomes.

Consumer understanding of skin concerns with an AI-powered informational tool

A new study found that AI applications enhance consumer understanding of skin conditions by increasing accuracy and confidence. However, imperfect guessing accuracy remains, highlighting the need for further design improvements to facilitate better comprehension.

Surface charge and membrane lipid composition define extracellular vesicle (EV) function: Lipid asymmetry enables new quality metrics for EV-based therapeutics

A comprehensive review reveals how phospholipid asymmetry governs EV surface charge, providing a unified framework for classification, functional understanding, and standardization in nanomedicine. The study highlights the importance of membrane lipid composition and surface charge in determining EV function.

AI remains lacking in clinical reasoning abilities, according to study of 21 large language models

A study of 21 large language models found that they excel at accurate final diagnoses but falter at differential diagnoses, highlighting the need for human oversight in healthcare. The researchers developed a novel measure, PrIME-LLM, to evaluate AI's clinical competency across different stages of reasoning.

Without the right tests, the best medicines make no difference

A new analysis from UC San Francisco argues that diagnostics are being overlooked, slowing progress against major diseases despite advances in targeted therapies. The study suggests that nearly half of the world's population lacks adequate access to diagnostics due to inadequate investment and insurance reimbursement.

Study finds sex- and race-based disparities in IBS diagnosis rates among US adults

A national survey found significant disparities in IBS diagnosis across sex and racial groups in the US. Men and Black patients are less likely to receive a formal diagnosis compared to women and white patients, despite similar reported healthcare-seeking behavior and symptom severity.

Age at first ADHD diagnosis and educational outcomes

A cohort study found that individuals diagnosed with ADHD at a younger age tended to perform better academically, receiving more education and experiencing lower dropout rates compared to those diagnosed closer to age 16. This suggests that targeted support for early diagnoses could help prevent school dropout.

Setting standards of care for brain injuries in first responders

Researchers at Ohio State University developed the first evidence-based guidelines for traumatic brain injury recognition and management in first responders. The guidelines aim to improve care and support for law enforcement officers, firefighters, and others who risk head injuries on the job.

ASH publishes clinical practice guidelines on diagnosis and management of severe and very severe acquired aplastic anemia

The American Society of Hematology has published clinical practice guidelines for diagnosing and managing severe acquired aplastic anemia, a rare and life-threatening bone marrow failure disorder. The guidelines highlight the importance of shared decision-making between patients and providers, as well as the need for additional researc...

Simple blood test could spot dementia years earlier, research shows

Researchers discovered subtle changes in the blood can reveal early signs of cognitive decline caused by chemicals produced by gut bacteria. A blood test may one day transform how we detect dementia, potentially identifying people at risk years before symptoms appear.

Unexpected findings on lung cancer CT scans may point to other non-lung cancers, study finds

A study led by Brown University researchers analyzed lung screening data to identify abnormalities outside the lungs that warrant follow-up care. Cancer-related findings appeared in about 3% of screening rounds and were linked to a higher risk of extrapulmonary cancers, particularly urinary system cancers.

New biomarker for immunoglobulin a nephropathy identified

Researchers have discovered a new biomarker for immunoglobulin A (IgA) nephropathy, which is an autoimmune disease that can lead to kidney failure. Complement pathway proteins, including CFHR1, were found to be overexpressed in patients with IgA nephropathy, suggesting a potential treatment target and diagnostic marker.

Lasting income costs of mental and physical illness

A study estimated income losses from individual perspectives in Denmark from 2000 to 2023 after hospital diagnoses of depression, alcohol use disorder, stroke, and breast cancer. The researchers found that income losses were largest for mental disorders, with average losses growing over time, particularly among younger individuals.

Irish researchers aim to revolutionise bowel cancer detection with new blood test

Researchers at Trinity College Dublin and their colleagues are developing a simple, high-accuracy blood test to detect bowel cancer. The CASPDx CRC test aims to transform cancer outcomes by moving screening away from invasive methods.

Rethinking dementia: New book argues attention — not memory — may be the earliest warning sign

A new book by Swansea University researchers argues that attention impairments, rather than memory dysfunction, are a key aspect of dementia. The authors suggest that recognizing these changes could lead to earlier identification, improved diagnosis, and better care for those affected.

First microlasers capable of detecting individual molecules and ions could one day aid diagnosis

Researchers at the University of Exeter have created microlasers that can detect individual molecules and single atomic ions, opening up new possibilities for lab-on-a-chip technology. This breakthrough could lead to early diagnosis of conditions like cancers and dementia, as well as swift testing of viruses.

How you walk could help doctors tell two similar brain diseases apart

Researchers found that people with early dementia with Lewy bodies walk more slowly and have a lower walking rhythm than those with early Parkinson's disease. This study highlights the promise of measuring movement in a more detailed manner to improve diagnosis accuracy.

Excessive screen time signals health risk for young adults

A study found that high screen time and low physical activity are strongly linked with cardiovascular risk among young adults. Screen time was independently associated with markers of cardiovascular risk, even after accounting for differences in daily physical activity.

Medical centers highlight responsible ways to share genetic disease risk information

A study by Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center and the eMERGE network found that sharing genetic disease risk information with patients can be done responsibly, with a 70% success rate. The team shared results with over 24,000 people using various methods, including one-to-one conversations for those with higher-risk findings.

New blood marker reduces the risk of a false diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers at Lund University have developed a new blood marker that significantly improves the accuracy of Alzheimer's diagnosis. The study found that combining two biomarkers, p-tau217 and eMTBR-tau243, can identify people with established Alzheimer's disease with an accuracy rate of around 80%. This breakthrough reduces false posit...

Sleep health dimensions from wearables and transdiagnostic mental health in young adolescents

The study identified six sleep health dimensions in young adolescents: irregularity, timing, duration, social jetlag, weekend oversleep, and continuity. Greater irregularity was associated with higher concurrent transdiagnostic mental health symptoms, while shorter duration was linked to increased symptoms at follow-up.

Researchers hunt for easier detection of lymphatic disorders

Researchers are developing a comprehensive diagnostic toolkit to detect lymphatic disorders earlier and as part of routine physical exams. The team, led by Dr. Zhenpeng Qin, is working on identifying biomarkers for lymphatic diseases through blood samples.

Korea University study identifies liver–metabolic disease as a key risk factor for heart failure in older adults with atrial fibrillation

A Korea University study reveals that liver metabolic disease is a key risk factor for heart failure in older adults with atrial fibrillation, with MASLD having the lowest risk and ALD carrying the highest risk. The study highlights the importance of liver health in cardiovascular disease management.

Policy revision expands access to rotational atherectomy without compromising PCI outcomes

The 2020 facility revision criteria for rotational atherectomy did not increase adverse events among patients treated for coronary artery disease. The expansion of RA eligibility to low-volume, non-training hospitals improved patient care and reduced geographical disparities.

Tumor-informed liquid biopsy suggests structural-variant ddPCR can monitor high-grade serous ovarian cancer

A novel method for monitoring on-treatment disease burden in high-grade serous ovarian cancer uses tumor-informed breakpoints-spanning ddPCR, detecting superior sensitivity and specificity compared to real-time PCR. The approach may enable sensitive and specific detection of minimal residual disease and early relapse detection.

Goethe university study reveals injury risks in professional dance

Professional dancers experience high levels of physical strain and ergonomic stress, with 25% developing osteoarthritis by their late twenties. The study suggests optimizing training sessions, flooring, and organizational changes to reduce injury risk and wear-related conditions.

SMFM issues new clinical guidance for cancer diagnosis and treatment during pregnancy

The Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine has released the first evidence-based clinical guidance for cancer diagnosis and treatment during pregnancy. The guidance aims to support both maternal health and pregnancy goals, while also prioritizing effective cancer therapy and fetal well-being.

Hidden acid imbalance in kidney disease raises red flags

A Japanese registry study reveals widespread underdiagnosis and undertreatment of metabolic acidosis in chronic kidney disease patients. Nearly half of patients with bicarbonate measured had metabolic acidosis, and diagnosis and treatment rates were low, highlighting a need for routine bicarbonate testing in CKD care.

New research shows how to diagnose people with Alzheimer’s plus a hard-to-identify dementia type

Researchers found that patients with both conditions exhibited different neuropsychiatric symptoms, which could inform diagnosis and treatment plans. The study's findings may help clinicians better understand the complex disease course of patients with multiple disorders, including Alzheimer's and frontotemporal lobar degeneration.

Timely scan could save lives of A&E patients with blood in urine

A new study found that A&E patients with visible blood in their urine who receive a scan within 48 hours are 2.5% less likely to die within three months. The study also showed that patients with cancer are diagnosed significantly faster when they receive prompt investigation.

Early intervention in severe fetal megacystis can increase survival rate and kidney function

Researchers found that treating severe fetal megacystis with a vesicoamniotic shunt in the first trimester can improve survival rates and kidney function. In the study, 75% of children were born alive and 68% survived their first year of life, with most showing normal or only slightly impaired kidney function.

Scan that makes prostate cancer cells glow could cut need for biopsies

A new imaging test, PSMA PET/CT scan, has been shown to safely reduce the number of biopsies needed for suspected prostate cancer, with no harm to patients. The PRIMARY2 trial found that the scan could identify low-risk patients who did not need a biopsy, while targeting suspicious areas for those who did.

Research presented at international urology conference in London shows how far prostate cancer screening has come

Research presented at EAU26 confirms that prostate cancer screening leads to a reduction in mortality, but also detects cancers that would otherwise remain undetected. The study's findings suggest that using MRI in prostate cancer screening can reduce overdiagnosis and unnecessary biopsies.

Blood marker for Alzheimer’s may also be useful in heart and kidney diseases

Researchers found elevated pTau levels in individuals with transthyretin amyloidosis and immunoglobulin light-chain amyloidosis, suggesting a new diagnostic approach for systemic amyloidosis. The findings may facilitate earlier detection and help confirm suspected cases.

Severe COVID-19, flu facilitate lung cancer months or years later, new research shows

Severe COVID-19 and influenza infections can prime the lungs for cancer development, according to new research. Vaccination, however, largely prevents these changes, suggesting a reduced risk of lung cancer.

Eyes as a window to hidden brain diseases

Researchers developed a fast, non-invasive, and affordable diagnostic tool using retinal images to differentiate between ALS and Alzheimer's disease. The tool, based on polarized light analysis, accurately predicted disease severity and type with high accuracy.

Detecting Alzheimer's with DNA aptamers—new tool for an easy blood test

Researchers develop world's first DNA aptamer that binds to neurofilament light chain, a protein released into the blood with neurodegeneration. The aptamer, MN711, shows high affinity and specificity comparable to commercially available antibodies.

A comprehensive review charts how psychiatry could finally diagnose what it actually treats

Emerging research across conceptual frameworks, biomarker science, digital phenotyping, and artificial intelligence synthesizes a translational pathway toward a more biologically grounded and clinically useful approach to psychiatric diagnosis. The current system falls short due to standardized clinical language and lack of biological ...

Cellular changes linked to depression related fatigue

Researchers at the University of Queensland have made a breakthrough in understanding the cellular changes that occur in depression. They found that cells in people with depression produce more energy molecules when resting, but have a reduced ability to increase energy production under stress. This study offers a new potential approac...