Ulta Lab Tests

Culture, Fungus, Miscellaneous Source

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The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Also known as: Culture Fungus Miscellaneous Source, Fungal Culture, Miscellaneous Source

Fungus Culture, Misc.

Source:

STATUS:

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The Culture, Fungus, Miscellaneous Source test contains 1 test with 3 biomarkers .

Brief Description: The Culture Fungus Miscellaneous Source test is a diagnostic laboratory test used to isolate and identify fungi from various types of clinical specimens. The primary objective is to detect the presence of pathogenic fungi that might be responsible for causing infections in the human body.

If culture is positive identification will be performed at an additional charge

Collection Method: Varies. Collection Must be performed in a physician's office. Standard patient service centers such as Quest Diagnostics will not perform collections for this test.

Specimen Types That Can Be Submitted: 

  • Body fluids, CSF, and eye fluid (vitreous) specimens in a Sterile, leak-proof container.
  • Ear, oral, throat, nose, nasopharyngeal, wound or genital specimen collected by swab and transported in a liquid or gel transport medium.
  • Ocular specimens collected in a sterile, leak-proof container, or transport swabs in liquid or gel transport medium.
  • Sputum, bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid, brushing, washing or aspirate collected in any sterile leak-proof container.
  • Tissue or biopsy specimen submitted in a sterile, leak-proof container.
  • First morning clean catch midstream urine catheter collected, surgically collected urine, or after prostatic massage.

Test Preparation: No preparation required

When and Why a Culture Fungus Miscellaneous Source Test May Be Ordered

A Culture Fungus Miscellaneous Source test is typically ordered:

  1. When a patient exhibits signs and symptoms consistent with a fungal infection, which could range from skin and nail conditions to respiratory or systemic infections.
  2. As a follow-up to other diagnostic tests that have indicated the presence of fungi.
  3. In cases of persistent, unexplained symptoms where fungal involvement is a possibility.
  4. To identify the specific type of fungus causing the infection, which aids in determining the most effective treatment.

What a Culture Fungus Miscellaneous Source Test Checks For

This test attempts to cultivate fungi from the provided specimen in a controlled lab environment. Once growth is detected, laboratory techniques are employed to identify the specific type or species of fungus. The test can detect a variety of fungi, including yeasts like Candida, molds like Aspergillus, and dermatophytes responsible for conditions like athlete's foot and ringworm.

Other Lab Tests Ordered Alongside a Culture Fungus Miscellaneous Source Test

When a Miscellaneous Source Fungus Culture test is ordered, it's typically part of a broader evaluation of suspected fungal infection or related conditions. Here are some tests commonly ordered alongside it:

  1. Blood Culture:

    • Purpose: To detect the presence of fungi in the bloodstream.
    • Why Is It Ordered: Used in cases of suspected systemic or invasive fungal infections.

  2. Complete Blood Count (CBC) with Differential:

    • Purpose: To evaluate overall blood health.
    • Why Is It Ordered: To identify signs of infection or inflammation, which may accompany a fungal infection.

  3. C-Reactive Protein (CRP) or Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR):

    • Purpose: To measure markers of inflammation in the body.
    • Why Is It Ordered: To assess the level of systemic inflammation, which can be associated with infections including fungal infections.

These tests, when ordered alongside a Miscellaneous Source Fungus Culture, provide a comprehensive evaluation of a suspected fungal infection and its impact on the body. They are crucial for accurate diagnosis, determining the extent of infection, assessing the patient's immune status, and guiding effective treatment. The specific combination of tests will depend on the individual’s symptoms, clinical presentation, and the suspected site and type of fungal infection.

Conditions or Diseases Requiring a Culture Fungus Miscellaneous Source Test

Several conditions or diseases may warrant the need for this test, including:

  1. Tinea Infections: Such as athlete's foot, jock itch, or ringworm.
  2. Candidiasis: Yeast infections of the skin, mouth, or genitals.
  3. Aspergillosis: An infection or allergic reaction caused by the Aspergillus fungus.
  4. Histoplasmosis: An infection caused by inhaling the spores of a fungus found in bird and bat droppings.
  5. Onychomycosis: Fungal infection of the nails.

How Health Care Providers Use the Results of a Culture Fungus Miscellaneous Source Test

The results of the Culture Fungus Miscellaneous Source test are utilized to:

  • Diagnose: Confirm the presence of a fungal infection and pinpoint the specific type of fungus causing the ailment.
  • Guide Treatment: Some fungi are resistant to certain antifungal medications. Identifying the fungus aids in selecting the most effective treatment.
  • Monitor Progress: If a patient is undergoing treatment for a fungal infection, periodic testing can gauge the effectiveness of the treatment and indicate if the fungus has been eradicated.

In conclusion, the Culture Fungus Miscellaneous Source test is vital in diagnosing fungal infections, directing suitable treatment plans, and ensuring the health and well-being of patients.

Most Common Questions About the Culture, Fungus, Miscellaneous Source test:

Purpose and Clinical Indications

What is the primary goal of the Culture Fungus Miscellaneous Source test?

The Culture Fungus Miscellaneous Source test is primarily designed to detect and identify fungi from various non-standard or miscellaneous sources, such as tissues, body fluids, and other specimens. It assists in diagnosing fungal infections, helping guide appropriate antifungal treatment and patient management.

Why would a healthcare provider recommend the Culture Fungus Miscellaneous Source test to a patient?

A healthcare provider might recommend the Culture Fungus Miscellaneous Source test if a patient presents with symptoms indicative of a fungal infection, especially if the suspected infection site is from a non-routine or unusual source. Identifying the specific fungus causing the infection can aid in choosing the best course of antifungal treatment.

Interpretation of Results

What does a positive result from the Culture Fungus Miscellaneous Source test imply?

A positive result from the Culture Fungus Miscellaneous Source test indicates the presence of a fungal organism in the tested specimen. The identified fungus can then be linked to the patient's symptoms, confirming a fungal infection. Further tests might be done to determine the fungus's susceptibility to antifungal medications.

If the Culture Fungus Miscellaneous Source test yields a negative result, does this mean the patient is free from all fungal infections?

A negative result from the Culture Fungus Miscellaneous Source test suggests no fungal growth was detected in the specimen provided. However, it doesn't guarantee the absence of a fungal infection entirely. The specimen might not have contained the fungus, or the fungus present might not grow under the conditions used. Clinical judgment, considering the patient's symptoms and other diagnostic tests, remains essential.

Clinical Implications

How can results from the Culture Fungus Miscellaneous Source test guide therapeutic decisions?

Results from the Culture Fungus Miscellaneous Source test can offer critical insights into which antifungal medications might be effective against the identified fungus. Some fungi are inherently resistant to certain antifungal drugs. Therefore, identifying the specific fungus can help avoid ineffective treatments and ensure the patient receives the most suitable medication for their infection.

Considering the variety of fungal organisms, how comprehensive is the Culture Fungus Miscellaneous Source test in identifying them?

The Culture Fungus Miscellaneous Source test is designed to identify a wide range of fungal organisms from miscellaneous sources. However, the comprehensiveness of the test depends on the conditions used for culture, the medium chosen, and the expertise of the laboratory personnel. While the test can detect many common and several rare fungi, there might be instances where a specific fungus doesn't grow well under standard conditions, necessitating additional specialized tests.

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.

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