Test ID: FDERM
Fungal Culture, Dermal
Specimen Type
Describes the specimen type needed for testing
Specimen Required
Defines the optimal specimen. This field describes the type of specimen required to perform the test and the preferred volume to complete testing. The volume allows automated processing, fastest throughput and, when indicated, repeat or reflex testing.
Forms: If not ordering electronically, submit a Microbiology Request Form (Supply T244) with the specimen.
Specimen must arrive within 7 days of collection.
Specimen source is required.
Specimen Type: Hair
Container/Tube: Sterile container
Specimen Volume: 10-12
Collection Instructions: Using forceps collect affected hairs with shaft intact.
Specimen Type: Nails
Container/Tube: Sterile container
Specimen Volume: Entire collection
Collection Instructions:
1. Wipe the nail with 70% alcohol using gauze (not cotton).
2. Clip away a generous portion of the affected area.
3. Collect material or debris from under the nail.
Specimen Type: Skin
Container/Tube: Sterile container
Specimen Volume: Entire specimen
Collection Instructions:
1. Cleanse the affected area with 70% alcohol.
2. Gently scrape the surface of the skin at the active margin of the lesion, being careful to not draw blood.
Specimen Minimum Volume
Defines the amount of specimen required to perform an assay once, including instrument and container dead space. Submitting the minimum specimen volume makes it impossible to repeat the test or perform confirmatory or perform reflex testing. In some situations, a minimum specimen volume may result in a QNS (quantity not sufficient) result, requiring a second specimen to be collected.
Reject Due To
Identifies specimen types and conditions that may cause the specimen to be rejected
| Hemolysis | NA |
| Lipemia | NA |
| Icterus | NA |
| Other | Charcoal, wooden shaft, or dry swab |
Specimen Stability Information
Provides a description of the temperatures required to transport a specimen to the laboratory. Alternate acceptable temperature(s) are also included.
| Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Varies | Ambient | 7 days |


