Name of the Procedure:

Infectious Agent Detection by Nucleic Acid (DNA or RNA); Candida Species, Amplified Probe Technique

Summary

This procedure is a molecular diagnostic test used to detect the presence of Candida species in a patient. It uses advanced techniques to amplify and identify the DNA or RNA of the fungus, providing a rapid and accurate diagnosis.

Purpose

This test is primarily used to diagnose infections caused by Candida species, which can lead to conditions such as thrush, yeast infections, and systemic candidiasis. The goal is to accurately identify the presence of the fungus to guide appropriate treatment.

Indications

• Persistent or recurrent yeast infections
• Symptoms of systemic infection, such as fever and chills, especially in immunocompromised patients
• Oral thrush or vaginal yeast infections with resistant or unresponsive symptoms
• Monitoring patients undergoing treatment for Candida infections

Preparation

• No fasting is required.
• Patients might be instructed to stop taking antifungal medications before the test, as directed by their healthcare provider.
• A sample will be collected, usually from the blood, throat, or bodily fluids, depending on where the infection is suspected.

Procedure Description

1. A sample is collected from the patient, which could be blood, throat swab, vaginal swab, or other bodily fluids.
2. The sample is then processed in a laboratory where the DNA or RNA is extracted.
3. Using the amplified probe technique, the specific nucleic acids of Candida species are amplified and detected.
4. Results are analyzed to identify the presence and possibly the quantity of Candida species.

Duration

The actual sample collection takes a few minutes, but processing and obtaining results typically take 24 to 48 hours.

Setting

• Outpatient clinic
• Hospital laboratory
• Specialized diagnostic centers

Personnel

• Medical laboratory technologists
• Microbiologists
• The healthcare provider who ordered the test

Risks and Complications

• Minimal risk associated with sample collection, such as mild discomfort or bleeding from a blood draw.
• Rarely, incorrect sample collection or handling may lead to false results.

Benefits

• Rapid and accurate diagnosis of Candida infections.
• Allows timely and appropriate treatment to be administered.
• Helps avoid unnecessary use of antifungal medications.

Recovery

• No recovery time needed for the test itself as it is minimally invasive.
• Follow post-procedure care as advised, which may include starting or adjusting antifungal treatment based on the results.

Alternatives

• Culture tests (slower results and less sensitive).
• Serology tests (can indicate exposure but not current infection).
• Clinical examination and empirical treatment (less precise).

Patient Experience

• Mild discomfort during sample collection (e.g., throat swab or blood draw).
• Minimal to no pain involved.
• Comfort measures usually include a quick collection process and reassurance from the healthcare provider.