Culture, Fungus, Skin, Hair, Nail with Direct Fluorescent/KOH
Also known as: Fungus Culture, Skin
Use
The prompt detection of fungus in clinical specimens such as skin, hair, or nail is critical for in‑patient management and appropriate treatment planning, as fungal infections—particularly disseminated fungal infections—are rising, and cultures are essential for isolating and identifying causative agents.
Special Instructions
If the culture is positive, an identification is performed at additional charge (CPT 87106 or 87107); if the organism cannot be identified or multiple organisms are present, identification by DNA sequencing (CPT 87153) may be performed.
Limitations
Not provided.
Methodology
Other
Biomarkers
Result Turnaround Time
Not provided.
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Skin
Volume
Not provided
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Container
Sterile leak‑proof container or dry swab or swab in bacterial transport medium
Collection Instructions
Remove hairs with forceps, scrape skin or scalp scales, clip nails and include keratin scrapings; cleanse skin with alcohol before scraping; cleanse feet and hands before collecting nails.
Storage Instructions
Transport at room temperature; refrigeration not recommended (can inhibit dermatophytes).
Causes for Rejection
Specimens other than hair, skin or nails; specimens transported in alcohol or formalin
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Hair, skin and nail specimens: 14 days; transport swabs: 72 hours |
| Refrigerated | See Collection Instructions |
| Frozen | Unacceptable |
Other tests from different labs that may be relevant