As a licensed laboratory technician employed by Dr. Mandel, I perform a variety of rheumatological tests here in our office. These tests help Dr. Mandel, diagnosis and monitor the effects of medication as part of a patients treatment. Offering lab processing at our office adds a level of convenience to our patients and the test results are processed in a timely manner.

We perform tests of moderate complexity inclusive of auto-immune tests which help to define the various underlying diseases in our classification of specialty. Here is a list of some of the tests and what disease they suggest:

ANA - Screen for many rheumatic diseases

SSA/SSB - associated with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) and Sjorgren's Syndrome.

DSDNA - Also associated with the diagnosis of SLE.

SM and SM/RNP - SLE, Scleroderma, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Discoid Lupus, Polymyositis and Sjorgren Syndrome.

SCL70 - Scleroderma

JO1-Polymyositis and Dermatomyositis

ANCA - Vasculitis

One of the most recent tests we have added to our regime is Anti-CCPAnti-Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide Antibodies or (Anti-CCP). It is a highly specific marker for rheumatoid arthritis and promises to revolutionize the serodiagnostic evaluation of patients with polyarthritis. We have an analyzer specifically designed to process this and many other auto-immune type tests.

Our office is certified with CLIA and COLA governmental bodies that regulate laboratory practices. There are strict guidelines all offices must follow to be sure patients are receiving accurate test results. The inspection reviews quality checks in equipment maintenance, record keeping, reagent management, calibration and a whole host of very detailed aspects of running an office lab. Our performance has consistently earned the rating for our office of 100% compliance. In recognition of this accomplishment COLA awarded plaques identifying our site with, "Excellence In Clinical Lab Performance".

I think that it is important to know, that though you may never see me outside of the lab; as a member of Dr. Mandel's team, I take great pride and care in providing quality patient treatment.