Medical professionals across the country face two significant challenges when it comes to choosing the right diagnostic tests for their patients: ensuring the accuracy of test results and dealing with the limited availability of commercial testing, especially for arthropod-borne diseases. Since every doctor wants peace of mind when selecting a testing facility, this article explores one of the most reputable testing centers in the US.
Coppe Laboratories, based in Waukesha, Wisconsin, is led by the world-famous virologist Dr. Konstance Knox. With over 30 years of experience in diagnostic testing, Dr. Knox has built a strong reputation for providing reliable test results to doctors around the world. She was recently featured in a popular health magazine and has a distinguished record of publishing in various medical research journals. A quick glance at Coppe Laboratories’ range of diagnostic tests shows their significant contribution to helping doctors address key questions about their patients’ health.
Doctors today face new challenges in many parts of the world. As globalization has increased, so has the complexity of combating diseases. For instance, the Zika virus started as a localized issue but quickly became a global concern. Currently, the US is dealing with multiple arthropod-borne diseases like Lyme disease, Anaplasmosis, Babesiosis, Powassan virus, and West Nile virus.
One of the biggest challenges is misdiagnosis, which can be extremely dangerous. Many arthropod-borne diseases have similar symptoms to each other and to other illnesses. Patients often present with “flu-like” symptoms and may delay seeking medical attention. This delay, coupled with possible misdiagnosis or incorrect treatment, can be problematic. Elderly individuals, young children, and pregnant women are especially at risk from undiagnosed arthropod-borne diseases. Coppe Laboratories offers faster diagnostic turnaround times compared to other specialty labs, which is crucial in reducing the risk of birth defects. Misdiagnosis is common but unacceptable, as it can harm both a doctor’s reputation and the patient’s health. Coppe Laboratories aims to provide doctors and their patients with the most accurate arthropod-borne disease testing available.
According to CDC guidelines, pregnant women suspected of exposure to the Zika virus should be screened at every prenatal visit. Similar precautions apply to West Nile and Powassan viruses, which can also cause pregnancy complications and fetal abnormalities. Coppe Laboratories stands out as the only commercial diagnostic lab that provides prenatal screening for both of these viruses. Dr. Knox advises that any pregnant woman suspected of tick exposure should be tested for Lyme disease, Babesia, and Powassan virus to prevent developmental issues and complications in newborns.
In conclusion, arthropod-borne diseases cause over 700,000 deaths annually. Medical researchers note that vector-borne diseases are critically important to both human and animal health. These diseases have been emerging or re-emerging in new geographical areas, posing new health threats and economic challenges. Doctors worldwide, including in the US, are under increasing pressure to offer accurate and affordable testing. Partnering with specialized testing facilities like Coppe Laboratories can make a significant difference in tackling these challenges.