Elite Clinical Laboratory

Introducing Our New Testing Services - Hereditary ENT Disorders Testing | Expanded Coverage: Now Serving More States - Call to know more.
CLIENT LOGIN
Order Supplies
CLIENT LOGIN

Nail Fungal Infection Testing

Precise diagnostics for onychomycosis and related conditions

Introduction

Precise Detection of Nail Fungus

This molecular test uses PCR technology to detect the DNA of dermatophytes—such as Trichophyton rubrum—and other fungi directly from nail clippings. It offers greater sensitivity than traditional microscopy or culture methods, making it ideal for diagnosing onychomycosis even in early or atypical cases. Accurate identification supports appropriate antifungal treatment decisions, helps avoid unnecessary therapies, and ensures effective management for patients with persistent or unclear nail abnormalities.

Why the Test Is Significant​

Higher Sensitivity

Reduces false negatives compared to KOH and fungal culture

Faster Diagnosis

Delivers quicker results than traditional culture methods

Accurate Diagnosis

Confirms the need for long-term antifungaltreatments

Species-Level Identification

Detects specific fungi to help guide treatment decisions.

Unknown and Interesting Facts

Onychomycosis, or fungal nail infection, is notoriously difficult to diagnose based on visual inspection alone—many nail disorders mimic its appearance, including psoriasis and trauma-related changes. Traditional diagnostic methods like KOH prep or culture may miss infections due to low sensitivity or slow fungal growth. PCR testing overcomes these limitations by detecting fungal DNA directly, offering faster, more reliable identification—even when viable organisms are scarce or absent in the sample.

Medical Necessity and Signs/Symptoms

  • Nail discoloration, thickening, or brittleness
  • Presence of subungual debris or nail distortion
  • Confirmation before starting systemic antifungal treatment
  • Cases with negative KOH/culture but high clinical suspicion
  • Recurrent or treatment-resistant nail abnormalities
  • Nail dystrophy of unclear origin
  • High-risk patients (e.g., diabetics, immunocompromised)
  • Situations requiring species-level identification for care

Post-Test Support

Elite Clinical Laboratory delivers precise, clinician-friendly reports with clear positive or negative findings. When applicable, we identify the fungal species detected, enabling tailored treatment decisions. This helps providers confidently move forward with appropriate antifungal management and reduces the risk of unnecessary or ineffective therapy—especially valuable in patients considering systemic treatment with potential side effects or contraindications.

Our Documentation