Fungal detection
PCR methods for the detection of dermatophyte fungal cultures
The detection of Dermatophyte fungal cultures uses high-sensitivity PCR testing. This reduces the overall turnaround time by up to 3 weeks, and increases the detection of fungal infection compared to combined microscopy and culture. The specific targeting of pathogens associated with superficial fungal infection is also increased, which assists in preventing the over-reporting of insignificant fungi that are contaminants.
Fungal test codes
Investigation of superficial fungal infection
Code
DERM
Sample type
Skin, Hair and Nail.
Turnaround
72 hours for interim PCR report, and 7 days for final culture (unless the fungal culture needs to be extended for significant growth).
Notes
• Dermatophyte PCR has replaced microscopy for Skin, Hair and Nail (72 hour TAT).
• Non-dermatophyte culture will take 7 days.
• Microscopy will be used to confirm significance of rare fungi.
• Pseudomonas investigation in Nail specimens is available on request.
Investigation of non-superficial fungal infection
Code
FUN
Sample type
All specimens other than Skin, Hair and Nail.
Turnaround
7 days (non-sterile e.g. ear swab) and 3 weeks (sterile i.e. CSF).
Notes
• Non-sterile specimen fungal cultures are performed on Sabouraud’s agar plates for 7 days with no microscopy.
• Sterile specimen fungal cultures have microscopy (Calcafluor) reported on the day of processing and culture on a Sabouraud’s agar slope, incubated for 21 days.