Healthier World with Quest Diagnostics
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.
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.
Listen on:
Episodes
Aug 3, 2026
Aug 3, 2026
22 min
Despite cervical cancer being one of the most preventable cancers, significant gaps in screening still leave many people vulnerable. But what if the screening process could be brought directly to the patient on their own terms? In this episode, Maeson Latsko, PhD, discusses the ongoing evolution of cervical cancer screening with Quest Diagnostics experts Megan Starolis, MS, PhD, HCLD(ABB), a Senior Scientific Director in Infectious Disease, and Damian Alagia, MD, MS, MBA, the Senior Medical Director for Advanced Diagnostics in Women's Health. They explore the science behind HPV DNA and mRNA testing, the clinical considerations for different screening algorithms, and the revolutionary potential of patient self-collection to improve health equity and save lives.
This episode will
Trace the evolution of cervical cancer screening from the Pap smear to modern molecular testing and self-collection, and recognize its potential to improve access to care (3:00)
Differentiate between HPV DNA and mRNA testing methodologies and analyze the clinical benefits and considerations for primary screening vs co-testing algorithms (5:00)
Explore how HPV self-collection can break down barriers to care for underserved populations and improve health equity (11:00)
Recognize the critical importance of ensuring appropriate patient follow-up to complete the care continuum after a positive self-collected test (16:40)
Speakers: Dr Megan Starolis, MS, PhD, HCLD(ABB); Dr Damian Alagia, MD, MS, MBA; Maeson Latsko, PhD
Contributors: Maeson Latsko, PhD; Dr Megan Starolis, MS, PhD, HCLD(ABB); Dr Damian Alagia, MD, MS, MBA
Ordering information
HPV Self-Collection
HPV DNA (16, 18, Other High Risk), PCR, Vaginal Self-Collected | Test Detail | Quest Diagnostics
Additional resources
Clinical Education Center | Quest Diagnostics
Instant insights: HPV testing for cervical cancer screening| Healthier World with Quest Diagnostics
Bringing cervical cancer screening closer to patients | Quest Diagnostics
Reference List
Screening for Cervical Cancer. Obstetrics & Gynecology. 2026;148(1):e63-e67. doi:10.1097/AOG.0000000000006257
Jul 27, 2026
Jul 27, 2026
6 min
Up to 30% of hypertensive patients in specialty care settings may have underlying Primary Aldosteronism (PA), yet a massive diagnostic gap still exists in screening for PA. In this episode, Maeson Latsko, PhD, and Jeffrey Hymes, MD, discuss the critical intersection of resistant hypertension, chronic kidney disease (CKD), and PA. They shed light on the direct, blood-pressure-independent toxicity of excess aldosterone on the kidneys and unpack the latest clinical guidelines from the AHA/ACC and Endocrine Society. They also review a guideline-based algorithm designed to streamline screening and follow-up for PA evaluation.
This episode will
Explore the bidirectional relationship between chronic kidney disease (CKD) and hypertension, recognizing Primary Aldosteronism (PA) as a highly prevalent underlying cause (4:25)
Detail the direct toxicities of excess aldosterone, independent of systemic blood pressure (8:50)
Review updated clinical guidelines and a practical diagnostic algorithm to screen, triage, and manage PA patients (12:45)
Ordering information
Kidney Profile
Kidney Profile with reflex to eGFR (Creatinine-Cystatin C)
Kidney Profile with eGFR (Creatinine-Cystatin C)
eGFR (Creatinine-Cystatin C)
Plasma Renin Activity with Reflex to Aldosterone
Additional resources
Clinical Education Center | Quest Diagnostics
Interpretation of Plasma Renin Activity With Reflex to Aldosterone Test (test code 13817) | Algorithm | Quest Diagnostics
Primary aldosteronism algorithm brochure
Quest Diagnostics nephrology brochure
Primary aldosterone landing page
Hypertension insights landing page
Reference List
Whelton PK, Carey RM, Aronow WS, et al. 2025 ACC/AHA/AAPA/ABC/ACPM/AGS/APhA/ASH/ASPC/NMA/PCNA 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 Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines. Hypertension. 2025;85(4):e123-e145.
Funder JW, Carey RM, Mantero F, et al. The Management of Primary Aldosteronism: Case Detection, Diagnosis, and Treatment: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2016;101(5):1889-1916. doi:10.1210/jc.2015-4061
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
Brown JM, Siddiqui M, Calhoun DA, et al. The unrecognized prevalence of primary aldosteronism: a cross-sectional study. Ann Intern Med. 2020;173(1):10-20. doi:10.7326/M20-0065
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Risk Factors for Chronic Kidney Disease. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Updated May 15, 2024. Accessed July 13, 2026. https://www.cdc.gov/kidney-disease/risk-factors/index.html
Jul 13, 2026
Jul 13, 2026
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.
Jun 29, 2026
Jun 29, 2026
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
Jun 8, 2026
Jun 8, 2026
8 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
May 26, 2026
May 26, 2026
5 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.
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
May 11, 2026
May 11, 2026
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
May 4, 2026
May 4, 2026
7 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.
Apr 13, 2026
Apr 13, 2026
7 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
Mar 30, 2026
Mar 30, 2026
7 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


