After the public defense of her thesis, the researcher received a distinction for her work. The thesis, titled "The Impact of Flow Cytometry as a Rapid Diagnostic Test for Suspected Patients with Gas Gangrene," was discussed by the Microbiology Department at the College of Medicine, University of Baghdad. The examination took place on Sunday, October 29, 2023. The thesis was submitted by Heba Sami Kareem Shiaa.
The examination committee, chaired by Professor Dr. Jassim Mohammed Karhout, included Assistant Professor Dr. Alaa Sadiq Jabir and Lecturer Dr. Basim Mohammed Ibrahim. Assistant Professor Dr. Wafa Mahmoud Al-Wattar supervised the thesis.
The study aimed to detect the presence of calactomannan antigen in the serum of immunocompromised patients as an early diagnostic test for gas gangrene and to assess the response to antifungal treatment as part of patient monitoring.
The study concluded that the QuicGM Aspergillus Lateral Flow Test is a rapid and reliable diagnostic method when used in conjunction with microbiological studies and radiographic imaging as evidence of gas gangrene. The researcher demonstrated the use of scientific references and successfully defended her thesis, earning her distinction for her exceptional work.