Name of the Procedure:

Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); Candida species, direct probe technique

Summary

This medical test identifies the presence of Candida species, a type of yeast, by detecting its DNA or RNA directly from a sample using a specific probe technique. It helps diagnose infections caused by these fungi.

Purpose

Candida species can cause various infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. This procedure aims to accurately diagnose such infections, enabling appropriate and timely treatment. The expected outcome is the identification or exclusion of a Candida infection.

Indications

• Persistent, unexplained symptoms of fungal infection such as itching, redness, or discharge.
• Immunocompromised patients showing signs of infection.
• Infections not responding to standard antibacterial treatments.
• Follow-up for patients with a history of Candida infections.

Preparation

• Patients may need to avoid antifungal medications for a certain period before the test.
• No specific fasting or dietary restrictions are generally required.
• A healthcare provider may perform a physical examination and possibly other diagnostic tests to determine the necessity of this procedure.

Procedure Description

1. A healthcare provider collects a sample from the infected area, which could be a swab, blood, or tissue sample.
2. The sample is then processed to extract nucleic acid (DNA or RNA).
3. A specific probe, which binds to Candida DNA or RNA, is applied to the sample.
4. The binding of the probe indicates the presence of Candida species.
5. The results are usually processed and interpreted in a laboratory.

Duration

The sample collection typically takes a few minutes. Laboratory processing and results interpretation can take several hours to a few days, depending on the laboratory's workload and specific protocols.

Setting

The sample collection is generally performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or physician’s office. The nucleic acid detection is done in a specialized laboratory.

Personnel

• Nurses or medical assistants may collect the sample.
• Laboratory technicians, microbiologists, and possibly molecular biologists are involved in processing and analyzing the sample.

Risks and Complications

• Minor discomfort or pain during sample collection, especially for tissue or blood samples.
• Rarely, minor bleeding or infection at the sample collection site.
• Possible false positives or negatives, although the procedure is highly specific and sensitive.

Benefits

• Accurate identification of Candida species which can guide effective treatment.
• Quick diagnosis compared to traditional culture methods.
• Helps prevent unnecessary use of broad-spectrum antifungals.

Recovery

• Minimal to no recovery time from the sample collection process.
• Avoidance of antifungal drugs until test completion.
• Follow-up appointments as needed based on test results.

Alternatives

• Traditional culture methods to grow Candida, which take longer but are also effective.
• Other molecular methods such as PCR-based techniques.
• Serological tests for Candida antibodies, though they may not be as specific.

Patient Experience

• Patients might feel minor discomfort during sample collection, especially for invasive types like blood or tissue samples.
• Generally, no sedation or anesthesia is required, and pain management is usually unnecessary.
• Post-procedure, patients can immediately resume usual activities.