Pathology Handbook

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Fungal PCR (Sendaway Test)

Alternative Names:

Pan Fungal PCR

Laboratory:

Microbiology

Test Code:

FUP

Medicare rebatable:

Yes

Specimen Types:

Tissue
Bronchoalveolar Lavage
Bronchial Washings
Cerebrospinal Fluid

Container Types:

Plain 70mL pot
CSF Tube 3

Adults Volume or Mass:

1 mL

Collection & Request Instructions:

Department head authorisation required. (ID consult team exempt).

Transport Instructions:

Room Temperature

Check Fungal culture result PRIOR to sending sample.

DO NOT send if culture positive for filamentous fungi or yeast.

Assay Frequency:

Fortnightly

Method:

Panfungal PCR assays have the potential to detect all fungal species in clinical specimens, but can be used also to identify a fungus isolated from culture. The assay performs best using fresh specimen, however, fungal DNA can be detected and identified in paraffin embedded tissue sections. For all types of specimens sensitivity is highest if fungal elements are visualised on microscopy. In all cases, PCR products are identified by DNA sequencing and comparison of the sequence with those in the GenBank database.

The assay is performed weekly on a Thursday with negative results available same day. Positive PCR results require DNA sequencing and are usually available 4 days after PCR. All positive results are phoned through to the requesting doctor. PCR results should be correlated with the patient's clinical status and the results of other diagnostic tests.

USEFUL LINKS

Frozen Section Booking Form

Printable Pathology Request Form

Order of Draw - Blood Samples