Nail Clippings
The Nail Clippings Mycology test identifies fungal nail infections using laboratory analysis. It helps confirm the cause of thickened, discoloured, or brittle nails.
Turnaround time
3 weeks
Biomarkers count
1
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Details about Nail Clippings
What is the Nail Clippings Mycology test?
The Nail Clippings Mycology test examines nail material to detect fungal organisms responsible for nail infections (onychomycosis). Nail clippings are analysed in the laboratory using microscopy and/or fungal culture to identify dermatophytes, yeasts, or moulds.
Nail infections can be slow-growing and difficult to diagnose clinically. Laboratory confirmation ensures that nail changes are truly fungal in origin and not caused by trauma, psoriasis, or other nail disorders.
Why do I need a Nail Clippings Mycology test?
Nail fungal infections are common and often misdiagnosed. Accurate testing helps avoid unnecessary or ineffective treatment.
You may need this test if you have:
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Thickened or brittle nails
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Yellow, white, or brown nail discoloration
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Crumbling or distorted nails
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Nail lifting from the nail bed
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Persistent nail changes despite treatment
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Suspected fungal infection before starting antifungal medication
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Recurrent nail infections
Confirming fungal infection is important before prescribing long-term antifungal therapy.
Benefits of the test
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Confirms fungal nail infection
Differentiates fungal from non-fungal nail conditions. -
Guides appropriate treatment
Supports correct antifungal choice. -
Prevents unnecessary medication use
Avoids treatment when fungus is not present. -
Identifies type of fungal organism
Dermatophytes, yeasts, or moulds. -
Widely used in dermatology and podiatry
Standard diagnostic approach. -
Simple sample collection
Requires only nail clippings. -
Supports long-term management
Important for recurrent infections. -
Improves treatment success rates
Accurate diagnosis leads to better outcomes.
Step-by-step: How we offer testing
Clinic-based testing (UK-wide)
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Choose your nearest UK clinic
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Nail clippings collected by a clinician
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Sample sent to the laboratory for mycology analysis
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Results issued once testing is complete
Home or hotel collection (+£60, UK-wide)
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Instructions provided for nail clipping collection
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Sample returned for laboratory analysis
Your results explained
Negative result
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No fungal elements detected
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Suggests nail changes are not due to fungal infection
Positive result
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Fungal organisms detected
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Confirms fungal nail infection
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May specify dermatophyte, yeast, or mould
Results should be interpreted alongside clinical appearance and symptoms.
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
Book Online
Choose your test online and book in seconds. Select your preferred clinic location or home visit option.
Visit or Test at Home
Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
Take control of your health with London Blood Tests
WhatsApp UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Medications & Supplements
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.