Why You Should Do a Fungal Nail Test - Choosing the Right Test
Treating fungal and damaged toenails can be quite challenging. With a plethora of pharmacy products and the latest trending treatments on social media, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure about the best approach. As podiatrists, we frequently encounter fungal nails as one of the most common conditions in our practice. We believe that an accurate diagnosis is crucial for achieving the best treatment outcomes. This is why testing your damaged nail is an essential first step towards achieving clear, healthy nails. Although which testing method is best? Below, we discuss the options available to our patients.
Combining clinical testing with mycological testing provides a more accurate diagnosis of fungal nails. Fungal nail infections can be caused by dermatophytes (60-70%), non-dermatophyte molds (20%), and yeasts (10-20%). Identifying the specific type of fungus is crucial in determining the most effective medication and treatment method. Additionally, confirming a fungal infection is especially important before considering oral antifungals, as these medications can have significant side effects, including gastrointestinal disturbances and liver damage.
What is a Diafactory Test?
The Diafactory test is a newer type of fungal nail testing frequently used by podiatrists. Particularly notable for its PCR-based style, which offer a highly sensitive, specific, and rapid method for diagnosing fungal nail infections in clinic. This test can be performed right in the treatment room with just a small nail sample, providing an accurate diagnosis with 98% sensitivity for detecting dermatophytes. One of the key advantages of the Diafactory test is its speed—results are available in about 5 minutes, eliminating the need to send a sample to an external lab. This allows for immediate commencement of treatment, coupled with effective advice from our experienced podiatrists.
Laboratory Testing by Your GP
KOH (Potassium Hydroxide) Preparation
Procedure: A small sample of the nail is taken and placed in a solution of potassium hydroxide (KOH).
Purpose: KOH dissolves keratin in the nail, making fungal elements more visible under a microscope.
Results: Provides a quick indication of the presence of fungal elements, though it doesn't identify the specific type of fungus.
Fungal Culture
Procedure: A sample of the nail is cultured on a medium that promotes fungal growth.
Purpose: To identify the specific type of fungus causing the infection.
Time: Results can take several weeks (4-6 weeks), as fungi grow slowly.
Note: This test is prone to false negatives in at least 30% of cases, meaning the test might indicate that there is no fungal infection when there actually is one.
Above tests usually performed together and can take up to 6 weeks. Consult your podiatrist to determine the most appropriate testing method based on your symptoms and medical history.
Take the First Step to Healthy Nails Today!
Don't let fungal nail infections hold you back any longer. Schedule an appointment with our experienced podiatrists to get an accurate diagnosis and start your personalised treatment plan. With our advanced testing methods, including the rapid and reliable Diafactory test, we can help you achieve clear, healthy nails quickly and effectively.
Don’t wait—healthy nails are just a step away!
https://www1.racgp.org.au/ajgp/2019/october/superficial-fungal-infections
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8081953/
https://dermnetnz.org/topics/fungal-nail-infections
https://pathologytestsexplained.org.au/ptests-pro.php?q=Fungal+tests
