The antifungal susceptibility test is used to determine the susceptibility of fungi (mainly Candida species) involved in various infections against various antifungal drugs.
Candida species are the fourth leading cause of hospital infections and are also a common cause of community infections. Antifungal susceptibility tests can help treat patients with in-depth infections due to Candida species or in patients experiencing treatment failure with standard antifungal drugs at the usual dosage.
The antifungal drugs tested are: Amphotericin B, Clotrimazole, Fluconazole, Itraconazole, Ketoconazole, Nystatin, Mykonazole, Econazole.
Fungi are characterized by their sensitivity to specific concentrations of antifungal drugs:
Sensitive: This category implies that infection due to this strain can be treated with the appropriate dosage of the antifungal agent for this type of infection, with the specific strain, unless contraindicated.
Moderately Sensitive: This category includes strains of fungi that are not clearly sensitive
Resistant: Strains belonging to this class are not inhibited by the usual systemic concentrations of the antifungal agent, with the usual dosage and/or special resistance mechanisms may be present.
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. The correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
