Description
Why It’s Done:
This test is used to:
• Guide antifungal treatment in moderate to severe fungal infections.
• Detect multidrug resistance in fungi, especially in immunocompromised or critically ill patients.
• Evaluate treatment options when standard therapy has failed.
• Monitor resistance patterns in healthcare settings or during outbreaks.
• Assist clinicians in choosing the most effective and least toxic antifungal regimen.
It is particularly valuable in treating infections caused by Candida, Aspergillus, Fusarium, and other opportunistic or resistant fungi.
Preparation:
• No direct preparation is needed from the patient.
• The test is conducted on the fungal culture previously obtained from patient samples such as blood, tissue, sputum, or skin.
• The lab uses the isolated fungus to test its susceptibility to 8 specific antifungal drugs.
