Healthier World with Quest Diagnostics

Quest Diagnostics
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Healthier World with Quest Diagnostics aims to prompt action from insight as we keep you up to date on current clinical and diagnostic topics to transform lives and illuminate a path to better health.

  1. 21h ago

    41 - Empowering primary care in the new era of Alzheimer’s disease diagnostics (25 min)

    For decades, assessing Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathology required expensive PET scans or invasive lumbar punctures, creating significant diagnostic bottlenecks at the neurologist’s office. In this episode, Maeson Latsko, PhD and Dr. Matt Stroh, PhD explore how groundbreaking blood-based biomarkers are completely changing the landscape of brain health. The conversation highlights the recent FDA clearance of a p-tau181 triage test to help rule out AD, as well as the power of advanced multibiomarker models. By combining plasma Aβ42/40 ratio and p-tau217, clinicians can now accurately predict amyloid PET positivity. Adding APOE4 allele count significantly reduces indeterminate results. This episode breaks down how these accessible tools are empowering primary care providers (PCPs) to confidently triage mild cognitive impairment (MCI), explore secondary causes of impairment, and streamline patient care well before a specialty referral is made. This episode will Introduce the shifting clinical landscape of Alzheimer's care, including the role of recently FDA-cleared p-tau181 tests in helping PCPs rule out AD pathobiology (2:15) Differentiate between normal age-related cognitive decline, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease (4:30) Translate the pathophysiology of AD (amyloid plaques and tau tangles) into the clinical utility of advanced blood-based models, demonstrating how combining Aβ42/40 and p-tau217 accurately predicts amyloid PET positivity, while adding APOE4 significantly reduces indeterminate results (6:45) Outline an actionable primary care workflow for patients presenting with cognitive complaints, balancing AD biomarker testing with the assessment of secondary, reversible causes (14:10) Ordering information Quest AD-Detect ABeta 42/40 and p-tau217 Evaluation, Plasma Quest AD-Detect® Beta Amyloid 42/40 Ratio, Plasma Quest AD-Detect® Phosphorylated tau217 (p-tau217), Plasma Quest AD-Detect® Phosphorylated tau181 (p-tau181), Plasma Quest AD-Detect® Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) Isoform, Plasma Dementia Panel, Secondary Causes Additional resources Clinical Education Center | Quest Diagnostics Role of blood testing for Alzheimer’s disease biomarkers within the primary care setting | Quest Diagnostics Alzheimer's Risk Assessment | Quest Diagnostics The Coming Alzheimer's Disease Healthcare Revolution Survey Report AD Detect Multimarker Panel for PCPs | Quest Diagnostics   References Weber DM, Stroh MA, Taylor SW, et al. Development and clinical validation of blood-based multibiomarker models for the evaluation of brain amyloid pathology. Preprint. medRxiv. 2025;2025.02.27.25322892. April 2025. doi:10.1101/2025.02.27.25322892 Hansson O, Edelmayer RM, Boxer AL, et al. The Alzheimer's Association appropriate use recommendations for blood biomarkers in Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimers Dement. 2022;18(12):2669-2686. doi:10.1002/alz.12756 Jack CR Jr, Bennett DA, Blennow K, et al. NIA-AA Research Framework: Toward a biological definition of Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimers Dement. 2018;14(4):535-562. doi:10.1016/j.jalz.2018.02.018 Data on file. Quest Diagnostics; 2026.

    26 min

  2. Jun 29

    40 - Unlocking answers faster with whole exome sequencing (17 min)

    Whole exome sequencing (WES) is transforming the way genetic testing has moved from a research tool to an increasingly important first-line diagnostic test for many patients. In this episode, Rebecca Johnson Wheeler, MS, CGC and Steve Keiles, MS, CGC discuss how advances in WES, growing insurance coverage, and expanding clinical applications are helping patients get answers faster while improving targeted treatment and care. This episode will Review current trends and guidelines driving increased adoption of whole exome sequencing in clinical practice (3:20) Discuss the potential benefits and limitations of whole exome sequencing including the important components of the test (4:55) Explain how the clinical interpretation of WES may change over time upon reevaluation as new patient information becomes available (8:15) Evaluate how genetic expertise can support clinicians throughout the testing and interpretation process (13:30) Date: June 2026 Speaker(s): Rebecca Johnson Wheeler, MS, CGC; Steve Keiles, MS, CGC Contributor(s): Rebecca Johnson Wheeler, MS, CGC; Steve Keiles, MS, CGC; Maeson Latsko, PhD; Meenakshi Mahey Kumar, MS, CGC; Whitney Dodge, MS, CGC; Emily Partack, MS, CGC   Additional resources: Test information: https://www.questdiagnostics.com/healthcare-professionals/about-our-tests/genetics/exome Blog: https://www.questdiagnostics.com/our-company/actions-insights/2026-blogs/considering-mitochondrial-genomes-in-whole-exome-testing Ordering information: Whole Exome | Test Detail | Quest Diagnostics Whole Exome Family Trio | Test Detail | Quest Diagnostics Whole Exome Family Duo | Test Detail | Quest Diagnostics References: Reinholdt L, Chesler E, Pera M, Rosenthal N. The rare-to-common disease journey: a winding road to new therapies. Trends Genet. 2025;41(9):762-773. doi:10.1016/j.tig.2025.05.003 Manickam K, McClain MR, Demmer LA, et al. Exome and genome sequencing for pediatric patients with congenital anomalies or intellectual disability: an evidence-based clinical guideline of the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG). Genet Med. 2021;23(11):2029-2037. doi:10.1038/s41436-021-01242-6 Smith L, Malinowski J, Ceulemans S, et al. Genetic testing and counseling for the unexplained epilepsies: an evidence-based practice guideline of the National Society of Genetic Counselors. J Genet Couns. 2023;32(2):266-280. doi:10.1002/jgc4.1646 Rodan LH, Stoler J, Chen E, Geleske T; Council on Genetics. Genetic evaluation of the child with intellectual disability or global developmental delay: clinical report. Pediatrics. 2025;156(1):e2025072219. doi:10.1542/peds.2025-072219 LJ, Minoche AE, Schofield D, et al. Whole exome and genome sequencing in mendelian disorders: a diagnostic and health economic analysis. Eur J Hum Genet. 2022;30(10):1121-1131. doi:10.1038/s41431-022-01162-2 van de Kamp JM, Betsalel OT, Mercimek-Mahmutoglu S, et al. Phenotype and genotype in 101 males with X-linked creatine transporter deficiency. J Med Genet. 2013;50(7):463-472. doi:10.1136/jmedgenet-2013-101658 Dunbar M, Jaggumantri S, Sargent M, Stockler-Ipsiroglu S, van Karnebeek CD. Treatment of X-linked creatine transporter (SLC6A8) deficiency: systematic review of the literature and three new cases. Mol Genet Metab. 2014;112(4):259-274. doi:10.1016/j.ymgme.2014.05.011

    17 min

  3. Jun 8

    39 - Instant insights: How to screen for primary aldosteronism (updated guidelines) (9 min)

    In this special episode of Healthier World designed to give you Instant Insights, we take a look at primary aldosteronism (PA)- an often underdiagnosed, yet prevalent cause of hypertension. In this episode, we challenge traditional screening methods and introduce a streamlined diagnostic approach. By recognizing the signs of Primary Aldosteronism earlier, providers can improve patient outcomes and avoid increased risk for cardiovascular and metabolic conditions associated with untreated PA. This episode will Explain the mechanisms underlying PA and how they disrupt the normal renin-aldosterone feedback system (1:50) Highlight the limitations of historic methodology, and describe updated guidance on PA evaluation (3:10) Walk through an example comparing the ARR with the suppressed renin approach for assessing PA (5:50) Explain the cardiometabolic consequences of untreated PA and the importance of proactive screening, particularly in patients with chronic kidney disease (6:50)   The content was current as of the time of recording. To learn more, please review the additional resources below for information on our cardiovascular, metabolic, endocrine, and wellness offerings as well as educational resources and insights from our team of experts. At Quest Diagnostics, we are committed to providing you with results and insights to support your clinical decisions. Date: 6/2025 Speaker(s): Maeson Latsko, PhD Contributor(s): Maeson Latsko, PhD; Trisha Winchester, PhD; Millicent Kee, MSN, FNP-BC; Akhil Singh; Smruti Sheth, Marco Marcelli, MD Additional Resources: https://www.questdiagnostics.com/healthcare-professionals/about-our-tests/endocrine-disorders/primary-aldosteronism Ordering information: Plasma Renin Activity with Reflex to Aldosterone | Test Detail | Quest Diagnostics   References: Adler GK, Stowasser M, Correa RR, et al. Primary Aldosteronism: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2025;110(9):2453-2495. doi:10.1210/clinem/dgaf284   Writing Committee Members*, Jones DW, Ferdinand KC, et al. 2025 AHA/ACC/AANP/AAPA/ABC/ACCP/ACPM/AGS/AMA/ASPC/NMA/PCNA/SGIM Guideline for the Prevention, Detection, Evaluation and Management of High Blood Pressure in Adults: A Report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Joint Committee on Clinical Practice Guidelines. Hypertension. 2025;82(10):e212-e316. doi:10.1161/HYP.0000000000000249   Marcelli M, Bi C, Funder JW, McPhaul MJ. Comparing ARR Versus Suppressed PRA as Screening Tests for Primary Aldosteronism. Hypertension. 2024;81(10):2072-2081. doi:10.1161/HYPERTENSIONAHA.124.22884   Dogra P, Bancos I, Young WF Jr. Primary Aldosteronism: A Pragmatic Approach to Diagnosis and Management. Mayo Clin Proc. 2023;98(8):1207-1215. doi:10.1016/j.mayocp.2023.04.023

    9 min

  4. May 26

    38 - Instant insights: Using ANAlyzeR to navigate systemic autoimmune disease (6 min)

    Millions of people with systemic autoimmune diseases face a long and frustrating journey to diagnosis, often lasting years. In this episode, Dr Maeson Latsko explores how to expand on the standard antinuclear antibody (ANA) test for autoimmune disease. While the ANA test is a critical starting point, a negative result doesn't rule out disease, and a positive result is not a definitive diagnosis. The ANAlyzeR™ panel is a comprehensive test that evaluates 25 autoimmune markers from a single blood draw. This approach provides a full-picture view from the outset, helping clinicians differentiate between 8 common autoimmune conditions, reduce diagnostic uncertainty, and get patients on the path to treatment sooner. Learning Objectives This episode will: Describe the challenges and delays in the typical diagnostic journey for patients with systemic autoimmune diseases (1:00) Explain the role of the ANA test as a first-line screening tool (2:00) Introduce the ANAlyzeR™ comprehensive panel as a solution to shorten the diagnostic process by simultaneously evaluating 25 analytes, to identify 8 common autoimmune conditions, regardless of the initial ANA result (3:55) Additional resources ANAlyzeR™ Test Summary: https://testdirectory.questdiagnostics.com/test/test-detail/36378/analyzer-ana-ifa-with-reflex-titerpattern-systemic-autoimmune-panel-1 ANAlyzeR™ Data Analysis Review Guide: DiagnoseAutoimmune.com Quest Diagnostics Clinical Education Center: https://www.questdiagnostics.com/healthcare-professionals/clinical-education-center   References Liu X, Patel AB, Seidel JE, et al. Traveling towards timeliness: the association between geographic access and wait times for rheumatology consultation in a centralized referral system. Healthcare (Basel). 2025;13(19):2533. doi:10.3390/healthcare13192533 Mechleb K, Hmamouchi I, Abdulateef N, et al. Exploring diagnostic timelines: a cross-sectional study of referral and diagnostic delays of patients with chronic inflammatory rheumatic diseases. Arab J Rheumatol. 2025;3:5-13. doi:10.4103/ajr.ajr_17_24 Autoimmune Association. Tips for getting a diagnosis of an autoimmune disease. Accessed February 24, 2026. https://autoimmune.org/resource-center/diagnosis-tips/ Data on file. Quest Diagnostics; 2026. Lockshin ME, Levine AB, Erkan D. Patients with overlap autoimmune disease differ from those with 'pure' disease. Lupus Sci Med. 2015;2:e000084. doi:10.1136/lupus-2015-000084 Icen M, Nicola PJ, Maradit-Kremers H, et al. Systemic lupus erythematosus features in rheumatoid arthritis and their impact on overall mortality. J Rheumatol. 2009;36(1):50-57. doi:10.3899/jrheum.080091 Aringer M, Costenbader K, Daikh D, et al. 2019 European League Against Rheumatism/American College of Rheumatology classification criteria for systemic lupus erythematosus. Ann Rheum Dis. 2019;78(9):1151-1159. Petri M, Orbai AM, Alarcón GS, et al. Derivation and validation of the Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics classification criteria for systemic lupus erythematosus. Arthritis Rheum. 2012;64(8):2677-2686. Aletaha D, Neogi T, Silman AJ, et al. 2010 rheumatoid arthritis classification criteria: an American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism collaborative initiative. Arthritis Rheum. 2010;62(9):2569-2581. doi:10.1002/art.27584

    6 min

  5. May 11

    37 - Instant insights: Whole exome sequencing for rare disease (8 min)

    The diagnostic landscape for rare disease is being reshaped by whole exome sequencing, which is increasingly used as a first-line test for cases involving unexplained developmental delay, epilepsy, or multisystem disease. In this episode, Rebecca Johnson Wheeler, MS, CGC, explores how whole exome sequencing and Quest Diagnostics genetic experts are transforming rare disease diagnosis by enabling earlier answers, reducing unnecessary testing, and improving care for patients and families. This episode will Describe whole exome sequencing in rare disease (1:40) Review clinical indications and guidelines for whole exome sequencing, including the available test options (3:25) Explain the role of genetic counselors in supporting rare disease and whole exome sequencing (5:50)   Date: May 2026 Speaker(s): Rebecca Johnson Wheeler, MS, CGC Contributor(s): Rebecca Johnson Wheeler, MS, CGC; Maeson Latsko, PhD; Meenakshi Mahey Kumar, MS, CGC; Natalie Cuttic; Whitney Dodge, MS, CGC; Khalida Liaquat, MS, CGC   Additional resources: Quest Diagnostics Clinical Education Center [Link] Test information: https://www.questdiagnostics.com/healthcare-professionals/about-our-tests/genetics/exome Blog: https://www.questdiagnostics.com/our-company/actions-insights/2026-blogs/considering-mitochondrial-genomes-in-whole-exome-testing Ordering information: Whole Exome | Test Detail | Quest Diagnostics Whole Exome Family Trio | Test Detail | Quest Diagnostics Whole Exome Family Duo | Test Detail | Quest Diagnostics References: Reinholdt L, Chesler E, Pera M, Rosenthal N. The rare-to-common disease journey: a winding road to new therapies. Trends Genet. 2025;41(9):762-773. doi:10.1016/j.tig.2025.05.003 Manickam K, McClain MR, Demmer LA, et al. Exome and genome sequencing for pediatric patients with congenital anomalies or intellectual disability: an evidence-based clinical guideline of the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG). Genet Med. 2021;23(11):2029-2037. doi:10.1038/s41436-021-01242-6 Smith L, Malinowski J, Ceulemans S, et al. Genetic testing and counseling for the unexplained epilepsies: An evidence-based practice guideline of the National Society of Genetic Counselors. J Genet Couns. 2023;32(2):266-280. doi:10.1002/jgc4.1646 Rodan LH, Stoler J, Chen E, Geleske T; Council on Genetics . Genetic Evaluation of the Child With Intellectual Disability or Global Developmental Delay: Clinical Report. Pediatrics. 2025;156(1):e2025072219. doi:10.1542/peds.2025-072219Ewans LJ, Minoche AE, Schofield D, et al. Whole exome and genome sequencing in mendelian disorders: a diagnostic and health economic analysis. Eur J Hum Genet. 2022;30(10):1121-1131. doi:10.1038/s41431-022-01162-2 van de Kamp JM, Betsalel OT, Mercimek-Mahmutoglu S, et al. Phenotype and genotype in 101 males with X-linked creatine transporter deficiency. J Med Genet. 2013;50(7):463-472. doi:10.1136/jmedgenet-2013-101658 Dunbar M, Jaggumantri S, Sargent M, Stockler-Ipsiroglu S, van Karnebeek CD. Treatment of X-linked creatine transporter (SLC6A8) deficiency: systematic review of the literature and three new cases. Mol Genet Metab. 2014;112(4):259-274. doi:10.1016/j.ymgme.2014.05.011

    8 min

  6. May 4

    36 - Instant insights: Identifying and diagnosing celiac disease (8 min)

    More than 80% of patients with celiac disease remain undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. In this episode, Maeson Latsko, PhD, explores the reasons for the diagnostic odyssey in celiac disease, from the disease’s wide range of symptoms to common pitfalls in testing. Celiac disease triggers a specific autoimmune response where the body attacks its own small intestines after gluten exposure, leading to malabsorption and comorbid conditions. Providers can screen for celiac disease using a serologic panel that detects key autoantibodies like tTG-IgA and accounts for IgA deficiency. This episode will Describe the autoimmune mechanism in celiac disease, including the role of tissue transglutaminase (tTG) and the HLA-DQ2/DQ8 genetic predisposition (2:00) Identify the key serologic markers used for diagnosis, including tTG-IgA, endomysial antibody (EMA), and the purpose of IgG-based backup tests for patients with IgA deficiency (2:40) Outline the clinical pathway for diagnosis, from initial testing with an automated reflex panel to the role of gut biopsy and follow-up monitoring (5:10) To learn more, please review the additional resources below for information on our cardiovascular, metabolic, endocrine, and wellness offerings as well as educational resources and insights from our team of experts. At Quest Diagnostics, we are committed to providing you with results and insights to support your clinical decisions. Date: May 2026 Speaker(s):  Maeson Latsko, PhD Contributor(s): Maeson Latsko, PhD; Frank Samarro; Adrienne Uzonyi; Aixa Santos; Trisha Winchester, PhD; Additional Resources: Quest Diagnostics Clinical Education Center [Link] Celiac Disease Comprehensive Panel with Gliadin Antibody (IgG) | Test Detail | Quest Diagnostics HLA Typing for Celiac Disease | Test Detail | Quest Diagnostics Tissue Transglutaminase (tTG) Antibody (IgA) | Test Detail | Quest Diagnostics IgA | Test Detail | Quest Diagnostics Gliadin (Deamidated) Antibody (IgA) | Test Detail | Quest Diagnostics References:     Rubio-Tapia A, Hill ID, Kelly CP, Calderwood AH, Murray JA. ACG Clinical Guidelines: Diagnosis and Management of Celiac Disease. Am J Gastroenterol. 2013;108(5):656-676.   Fasano A, Catassi C. Celiac Disease. N Engl J Med. 2012;367(25):2419-2426.   Hill ID, Dirks MH, Liptak GS, et al. Guideline for the diagnosis and treatment of celiac disease in children: recommendations of the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr. 2005;40(1):1-19.   Celiac Disease Foundation. Celiac Disease Facts and Figures. Accessed April 15, 2026.

    8 min

  7. Apr 13

    35 - Instant insights: Hypercortisolism in difficult-to-control type 2 diabetes (8 min)

    More than 36 million Americans are living with type 2 diabetes, and an estimated 30%-50% of patients remain uncontrolled. In this episode, Maeson Latsko, PhD, explores an under-recognized contributor to difficult-to-control diabetes: hypercortisolism. Hypercortisolism disrupts glucose metabolism and insulin function, leading to elevated HbA1c that isn’t as responsive to traditional treatment. Providers can screen for hypercortisolism using an overnight dexamethasone suppression test. This episode will Review the clinical characteristics of difficult-to-control diabetes and when hypercortisolism should be considered (1:00) Explain how hypercortisolism contributes to type 2 diabetes (2:25) Outline the clinical approach to screening for hypercortisolism (4:50) To learn more, please review the additional resources below for information on our cardiovascular, metabolic, endocrine, and wellness offerings as well as educational resources and insights from our team of experts. At Quest Diagnostics, we are committed to providing you with results and insights to support your clinical decisions. Date: April 2026 Speaker(s):  Maeson Latsko, PhD Contributor(s): Maeson Latsko, PhD; Trisha Winchester, PhD; Gregory Buchan, PhD; Sanjay Dixit, MD   Additional Resources Quest Diagnostics Clinical Education Center [Link]   Hypercortisolism in Difficult-To-Control Type II Diabetes | Quest Diagnostics   Ordering information: Dexamethasone Suppression Test (DST), 1 Specimen | Test Detail | Quest Diagnostics Dexamethasone | Test Detail | Quest Diagnostics

    8 min

  8. Mar 30

    34 - Instant insights: HPV testing for cervical cancer screening (8 min)

    Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women globally, and Human papilloma virus (HPV) causes nearly all cases. Laboratory screening can detect infection or abnormal cells early, so clinicians can intervene before cancer develops. Screening options include Pap testing, HPV testing, and co-testing, and guidelines recommendation different combinations of these tests based on age and clinical presentation. This episode will Explain what HPV testing is and why HPV drives nearly all cervical cancers (1:00) Compare Pap testing, HPV testing, and co-testing (2:00) Summarize guideline-based screening options by age (3:30) To learn more, please review the additional resources below for information on our cardiovascular, metabolic, endocrine, and wellness offerings as well as educational resources and insights from our team of experts. At Quest Diagnostics, we are committed to providing you with results and insights to support your clinical decisions. Date: March 2026 Speaker(s):  Maeson Latsko, PhD Contributor(s): Maeson Latsko, PhD; Trisha Winchester, PhD, MBA; Pat Alagia, MD, MBA; Lisa Smith; Paula McCollem   Additional Resources Quest Diagnostics Clinical Education Center [Link] Quest Diagnostics Cervical Cancer Portfolio Brochure ASCCP Management Guidelines Web Application Ordering information: ThinPrep Automated Test Code Aid Age 21-29 Pap alone ThinPrep® Automated Pap | Test Detail | Quest Diagnostics Pap reflex to HPV DNA ThinPrep® Automated Pap Reflex HPV DNA (16,18,Other High Risk) PCR,Cervical | Test Detail | Quest Diagnostics Pap reflex to HPV mRNA ThinPrep® Automated Pap with Reflex to HPV mRNA E6/E7 | Test Detail | Quest Diagnostics   Age 30-65 Pap and HPV DNA ThinPrep® Automated Pap and HPV DNA (16, 18, Other High Risk) PCR, Cervical | Test Detail | Quest Diagnostics Pap and HPV mRNA reflex to genotypes 16, 18/45 ThinPrep® Automated Pap and HPV mRNA E6/E7 with Reflex to HPV 16,18/45 | Test Detail | Quest Diagnostics HPV Primary reflex to Pap HPV DNA (16,18, Other High Risk), PCR with Reflex to ThinPrep® Automated Pap | Test Detail | Quest Diagnostics HPV Self-Collection HPV DNA (16, 18, Other High Risk), PCR, Vaginal Self-Collected | Test Detail | Quest Diagnostics

    8 min
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5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Healthier World with Quest Diagnostics aims to prompt action from insight as we keep you up to date on current clinical and diagnostic topics to transform lives and illuminate a path to better health.

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