Living diagnostics

The blog that connects you with the in vitro diagnostic world.

July 16, 2025

A new chapter in Quality Control – how USP Chapter <86> can transform approaches to endotoxin testing

Could 2025 be the year that endotoxin testing finally catches up with the 21st century? Unlike other areas of Pharmaceutical Quality Control where innovations such as data analytics and automation have driven extensive modernization, endotoxin testing has remained resolutely stuck in the past. This vital Quality Control procedure has until recently relied on outdated testing practices that require the blood of horseshoe crabs. Significantly, new authoritative standards have recently recognized alternative testing methods that can deliver the same important validation, without relying on animal-derived products. What are these new standards and what could their integration mean for the future of endotoxin testing?

Pharmaceutical Quality Control

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July 10, 2025

Prevention & Management : What to do when an outbreak occurs ?

Have you ever been in a situation where you were not able to distinguish a simple cough from a real disease which could have dramatic outcomes for a horse and potentially contaminate the whole herd? When suspicion arises, the initial diagnostic relies on a precise examination by a veterinarian and an early pathogen identification through diagnosis. Good hygiene protocols for both the individual and the collective, and adapted treatment are needed as well. These two pillars play a critical role in safeguarding the health and well-being of our equine companions, as well as preventing potential economic losses and maintaining the overall stability of equine communities.

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July 08, 2025

Equine respiratory infections : what to do when your horse starts coughing ?

If you already had a sick horse, you know the situation can escalate quickly. At the first signs of a respiratory disease, distinguishing a simple cough from a severe infection which will evolve into respiratory distress, and even the appearance of neurologic symptoms can be a challenge. These seemingly inoffensive symptoms can signify a much more critical issue. If not detected in time and treated correctly, a respiratory disease can be disabling for your horse for its entire life, damaging its health along with its sportive carrier.

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July 02, 2025

A Balancing Act: Fighting Sepsis and Antimicrobial Resistance at the Same Time

Studies show that the rapid administration of antibiotics has been generally associated with a decrease in deaths among hospitalized patients with sepsis. However, the need to quickly administer effective therapy can lead to clinicians turning to broad-spectrum antibiotics, which can exacerbate antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Because AMR is a major healthcare concern—including for patients with sepsis—improving the alignment between sepsis protocols and antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) guidelines is important for patient care.

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- Sepsis
June 04, 2025

Impact of Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs on Patient Care in the ICU

Following their introduction over half a century ago, Intensive Care Units (ICUs) have played an invaluable role in caring for patients who are critically ill or seriously injured. However, infections such as healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are a common problem in the ICU, resulting in the frequent use and sometimes overuse of life-saving antibiotics in those settings. While antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a process that naturally occurs over time, it is important to note that the overuse and misuse of antibiotics, even when utilized in intensive care environments, is contributing to the further emergence of resistant pathogens.

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