Mycology/Skin Scrapings by PCR
Specialist fungal PCR testing of skin, nail or hair samples for molecular detection of dermatophytes, yeasts and other fungi.
Turnaround time
3-7 business days
Biomarkers count
1
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Overview of the Mycology/Skin Scrapings by PCR Test
The Mycology/Skin Scrapings by PCR test is a specialist molecular investigation used to detect fungal genetic material within skin scrapings, nail clippings or hair samples.
PCR testing detects fungal DNA rather than relying solely on organisms growing in culture.
This can provide a faster molecular approach when fungal infection is suspected in the skin, nails or scalp.
The test may identify dermatophytes, yeasts or other fungi within the scope of the laboratory assay.
A positive result needs to be interpreted alongside the site sampled and the clinical appearance.
Sample quality is particularly important because fungal infection can be localised and an inadequate specimen may reduce detection.
This specialist fungal PCR service costs £149.
What Does the Mycology/Skin Scrapings by PCR Test Check?
This test measures 1 specialist microbiology investigation.
Mycology/Skin Scrapings by PCR
Detects fungal DNA from an appropriate skin scraping, nail clipping or hair specimen using PCR methodology.
Who May Benefit From the Mycology/Skin Scrapings by PCR Test?
PCR testing may be useful when superficial fungal infection is suspected and molecular confirmation is required.
People with persistent fungal-looking skin rashes - PCR may help confirm fungal DNA.
People with thickened or discoloured nails - Nail material can be tested.
People with brittle or crumbling nails - Onychomycosis may form part of the differential.
People with scalp scaling or hair loss where fungal infection is suspected - Hair or scalp material can be analysed.
People whose symptoms have not responded to treatment - Laboratory confirmation can help reassess the diagnosis.
People advised by a dermatologist or clinician to undergo fungal PCR - Molecular testing can provide targeted microbiological information.
How to Prepare
The quality and location of the sample can materially affect detection.
This service is arranged through a specialist clinic pathway so the appropriate specimen can be obtained.
Symptoms and Reasons to Consider the Mycology/Skin Scrapings by PCR Test
Superficial fungal infections can resemble several non-fungal dermatological conditions.
Itchy or scaly skin - Fungal infection is one possible cause.
Persistent ring-shaped or spreading rash - May warrant microbiological confirmation.
Thickened or discoloured nails - Can occur with fungal nail infection.
Nail separation or crumbling - May justify testing before prolonged antifungal treatment.
Scalp scaling or patchy hair changes - Fungal scalp infection may need assessment.
Persistent lesions despite topical treatment - Testing can help clarify whether fungus remains present.
A fungal PCR result should be interpreted alongside clinical examination.
Not every rash, nail change or scalp condition is caused by fungal infection.
How to Book Your Mycology/Skin Scrapings by PCR Test
The test requires an appropriate dermatological specimen collected through the designated specialist clinic pathway.
Choose the Mycology/Skin Scrapings by PCR Test
Select the £149 fungal PCR investigation.
Select your sample collection option
Arrange the designated clinic appointment for skin, nail or hair material. Any applicable specialist collection charge is confirmed when booking.
Attend your appointment
An appropriate skin scraping, nail clipping or hair sample is collected.
Laboratory analysis
The specimen undergoes fungal PCR analysis.
Receive your results securely
Your authorised microbiology result is returned securely.
When Will I Receive My Results?
Results are generally available approximately 3–7 days after the specimen reaches the laboratory.
The exact timing can depend on the specimen and laboratory processing.
Understanding Your Results
A negative result means fungal DNA was not detected within the submitted specimen according to the assay.
A positive result means fungal genetic material has been detected.
The result may provide organism information depending on the laboratory assay.
A negative test reduces the likelihood of fungal infection at the sampled site but does not completely exclude it if the specimen was inadequate or the affected area was not sampled.
Why Book With London Blood Tests?
London Blood Tests provides dedicated fungal PCR testing.
PCR methodology - Fungal DNA is detected directly.
Skin, nail or hair specimens - Several superficial infection sites can be assessed.
Useful before prolonged treatment - Laboratory confirmation may help prevent unnecessary antifungal therapy.
Specialist laboratory pathway - The specimen follows the designated fungal PCR pathway.
Approximately 3–7 day turnaround - Molecular testing can provide results more quickly than prolonged traditional fungal culture pathways.
Clear pricing - Mycology/Skin Scrapings by PCR costs £149.
Private Mycology/Skin Scrapings by PCR Test in London
London Blood Tests provides private Mycology/Skin Scrapings by PCR for £149.
The test uses skin, nail or hair material rather than a blood sample.
Results are generally expected within approximately three to seven days after laboratory receipt.