Fungal Culture

CPT Code(s):
87101

Turnaround Time:
4 - 6 weeks

Specimen Requirements

Preferred Specimen:
Wounds, Abscess, Aspirates or Drainage

Minimum Volume:
0.5 mL (or 1 swab)

Transport Container:
BBL Swab or Sterile Cup

Transport Temperature:
Room Temperature

Collection Instructions:
Swab the infected area or exudates using proper collection technique. Do not send syringe with needle.

Rejection Criteria:
Improper labeling; specimen received in grossly leaking transport container; specimen received in expired transport media; specimen received after prolonged delay (usually more than 48 hours)

Stability Criteria

Room Temperature:
72 hours

Refrigerated:
72 hours

Frozen:
Unacceptable

Clinical Significance

Fungal Culture holds specific clinical significance and diagnostic use in the detection and identification of fungal infections in patients. The specific clinical significance and diagnostic use include:

1. Identification of Fungal Infections: Fungal Culture is a laboratory procedure that involves culturing patient samples, such as blood, tissue, or bodily fluids, to identify the presence of fungal pathogens. It helps in the diagnosis of various fungal infections, including systemic fungal infections, such as candidiasis or aspergillosis, as well as localized infections like dermatophytosis (ringworm) or nail infections.

2. Accurate Identification of Fungal Species: Fungal cultures are essential for accurate identification of the specific fungal species causing the infection. This information is crucial for guiding appropriate antifungal treatment and determining the prognosis. Different fungal species have varying susceptibilities to antifungal drugs, so accurate identification helps in selecting the most effective therapy.

3. Determining Antifungal Susceptibility: In addition to identifying the fungal species, Fungal Culture can provide information about the susceptibility of the isolated fungus to different antifungal medications. This data aids healthcare providers in tailoring the treatment regimen to effectively eradicate the infection.

4. Monitoring Treatment Response: Fungal cultures are useful for monitoring the effectiveness of antifungal therapy. Serial cultures can be performed to assess the clearance of the fungal infection over time. Monitoring the growth or absence of the fungus helps guide treatment adjustments and evaluate the patient's response to therapy.

5. Investigating Suspected Fungal Infections: Fungal cultures are often performed when there is a strong clinical suspicion of a fungal infection, especially in cases where other diagnostic tests, such as microscopy or serological tests, yield inconclusive or negative results. Fungal Culture provides a more definitive diagnosis and aids in guiding appropriate management.

6. Epidemiological Surveillance: Fungal culture data contributes to epidemiological surveillance by providing information on the prevalence and distribution of specific fungal pathogens in a given population or geographic region. This information helps in understanding the epidemiology of fungal infections and can guide public health interventions.

It is important to note that fungal cultures require specialized laboratory techniques, and results may take several days or weeks to obtain. In some cases, additional tests such as molecular diagnostics or histopathological examination may be required to confirm the diagnosis. Fungal Culture plays a critical role in the diagnosis, management, and surveillance of fungal infections, allowing for appropriate treatment selection and monitoring of patient outcomes.