Doctor Newsletter

In the lead article, Dr Linda Dreyer explores insightful 2025 research that reframes Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) as a sexually associated condition, highlighting how partner treatment can significantly reduce recurrence rates. Complementing this, Dr Binay Kumar offers a GP’s perspective on managing BV in everyday clinical practice. Dr Stella Pendle provides detailed guidance on testing for Mycoplasma genitalium, an increasingly challenging STI to treat due to rising global antimicrobial resistance. We conclude this edition with an article by Dr Phoebe Stanford on gestational diabetes, discussing its growing prevalence, the recently updated ADIPS diagnostic criteria and a recommended approach to screening.

VIC/QLD    NSW/ACT    WA/SA/NT

In this edition of Pathology Focus, Dr Eric Chu explores the rising burden of RSV in Australia, highlighting key epidemiological trends, the age groups at greatest risk, and the latest vaccine recommendations for infants, pregnant women and older adults. Dr Phoebe Stanford explains the vital role of vitamin D in the body and the significant health implications of its deficiency. Associate Professor Mirette Saad outlines the current guidelines for screening for pre-term pre-eclampsia between 11-13⁺⁶ weeks’ gestation and highlights the clinical utility of the Placental Growth Factor (PlGF 1-2-3™) screening offered by Clinical Labs. Following recent updates to the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) for vitamin B12 investigations, Dr David Deam guides clinicians through a new diagnostic pathway for testing. The edition concludes with an update on MBS amendments for urine testing in asymptomatic patients.

VIC/QLD    NSW/ACT    SA/NT    WA

In the lead article for this edition, Melbourne cardiologist and Founder and Medical Director of CardioScan, Associate Professor Harry G Mond, and Clinical Labs chemical pathologist Dr David Deam explore key investigative tests that GPs can order for patients presenting with cardiac symptoms in general practice. Associate Professor Chris Barnes highlights recommended annual blood tests for men and addresses the common barriers that prevent many from taking a proactive approach to their health. The edition concludes with an article by Associate Professor Louise Smyth on the evolution of lupus testing, examining the key advancements that have shaped its complex diagnostic pathway.

VIC/QLD/SA/NT     NSW/ACT/WA