The Molecular Diagnostics laboratory at HCMC provides specialized testing for the diagnosis and management of infectious diseases. The laboratory has been performing nucleic-acid amplification testing (Abbott LCx) for Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae since 1997 and is highly experienced in the use of this technology (50,000 LCx assays were performed in 2000). Determination of HIV viral load is performed using both the conventional and ultrasensitive Amplicor Monitor quantitative RT-PCR assay, and HIV genotyping for determination of antiretroviral drug resistance is also available. A full complement of molecular assays for Hepatitis C virus are also offered, namely, qualitative and quantitative RT-PCR (Roche Amplicor) and nucleotide sequence-based determination of viral genotype. In addition, the molecular diagnostics laboratory offers a PCR assay for the detection of Herpes Simplex virus DNA in cerebrospinal fluid, the test of choice for the diagnosis of HSV disease of the central nervous system.

The molecular diagnostics laboratory is directed by a Ph.D. level clinical microbiologist with considerable experience in molecular diagnostic test development, supported by an American Society for Clinical Pathology certified Clinical Laboratory Specialist in Molecular Biology, and a staff of highly trained Medical Technologists and Medical Laboratory Technicians.

The laboratory is currently staffed Monday through Friday from 7:00am until 3:30pm.