Lung Disorders
UTI
STI
Gastrointestinal
Nail Infection
Wound Infection
Detailed Description of PCR Tests Offered by Medex Laboratories Inc.
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing is a highly sensitive and specific molecular diagnostic method used to detect the presence of pathogens by amplifying their DNA or RNA. Below is a breakdown of the different PCR tests offered by Medex Laboratories Inc. based on the requisition forms.
What is a UTI?
A Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) occurs when bacteria, viruses, or fungi infect any part of the urinary system, including the bladder, kidneys, ureters, and urethra. UTIs are one of the most common infections and can cause discomfort, pain, and potential complications if left untreated.
Common Symptoms of a UTI:
✅ Frequent urge to urinate
✅ Burning sensation during urination
✅ Cloudy, bloody, or strong-smelling urine
✅ Pelvic pain or lower abdominal discomfort
✅ Fever or chills (sign of kidney infection)
What is the UTI PCR Test?
A UTI PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) Test is an advanced molecular diagnostic test that detects and identifies bacterial, viral, and fungal pathogens in the urinary tract. Unlike traditional urine cultures that take several days, PCR testing provides fast and highly accurate results within 24-48 hours.
Key Advantages of the UTI PCR Test:
🔬 Highly Accurate: Detects multiple pathogens with over 99% sensitivity and specificity
⚡ Rapid Results: Provides results within 24-48 hours, unlike culture tests that take 3-5 days
🦠 Detects Antibiotic Resistance Genes: Identifies resistance markers for personalized antibiotic treatment
✅ Comprehensive Detection: Tests for multiple bacteria, fungi, and viruses in one sample
Who Should Get a UTI PCR Test?
The UTI PCR test is recommended for individuals experiencing:
✅ Recurring or persistent UTIs despite treatment
✅ Chronic urinary symptoms with negative urine cultures
✅ Complicated UTIs in individuals with diabetes, pregnancy, or weakened immune systems
✅ History of antibiotic resistance in previous infections
How is the UTI PCR Test Performed?
1️⃣ Sample Collection – A urine sample is collected using a clean-catch method at a lab or healthcare facility.
2️⃣ DNA/RNA Extraction – The sample is processed to extract genetic material from pathogens.
3️⃣ PCR Amplification & Analysis – The test amplifies microbial DNA, detecting UTI-causing pathogens.
4️⃣ Results Interpretation – A report is generated, identifying the exact bacteria, virus, or fungi responsible and any antibiotic resistance genes detected.
Pathogens Detected in UTI PCR Testing
Bacterial Infections:
- Escherichia coli (E. coli) – The most common UTI-causing bacteria
- Klebsiella pneumoniae
- Enterococcus faecalis
- Proteus mirabilis
- Pseudomonas aeruginosa
- Staphylococcus saprophyticus
Fungal & Viral Causes of UTI:
- Candida species (Fungal UTIs)
- Adenovirus (Viral UTIs)
- BK Virus (BKV) – Common in kidney transplant patients
Why Choose PCR Over Traditional Urine Cultures?
Feature | PCR Test | Traditional Urine Culture |
Detection Speed | 24-48 hours | 3-5 days |
Sensitivity | Over 99% accuracy | Lower sensitivity |
Antibiotic Resistance Detection | Yes | No |
Multiple Pathogen Detection | Yes (bacteria, viruses, fungi) | Limited to bacterial growth |
Interpreting Your Results
🔹 Positive Result – Confirms a UTI-causing organism; your doctor will prescribe targeted treatment.
🔹 Negative Result – No infection detected; alternative causes for symptoms should be evaluated.
🔹 Antibiotic Resistance Detected – Indicates which antibiotics may not be effective, guiding personalized treatment.
Next Steps After Testing
- If an infection is detected, your doctor will prescribe an effective antibiotic based on resistance results.
- Patients with frequent UTIs may require preventive strategies such as probiotics, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications.
- Additional testing may be needed for individuals with recurrent or complicated UTIs.
Insurance & Cost Coverage
Most insurance providers cover UTI PCR testing when medically necessary. Our team can assist with insurance verification and billing support.
Why Choose Our Lab for UTI PCR Testing?
✔ Fast & Accurate Results – Detects infections within 24-48 hours
✔ Comprehensive Pathogen Screening – Tests for bacteria, fungi, and viruses
✔ Antibiotic Resistance Detection – Helps in targeted, effective treatment
✔ CLIA-Certified & CAP-Accredited Lab – Ensuring high-quality testing standards
✔ Expert Consultation Available – Helping patients and physicians interpret results
Understanding Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are infections that spread through sexual contact and can affect the genital, anal, and oral areas. If left untreated, STIs can cause serious health complications, including infertility, chronic pain, and increased HIV risk.
The STI PCR Test is an advanced molecular diagnostic test that provides rapid and highly accurate detection of sexually transmitted infections using DNA/RNA amplification.
Why Choose the STI PCR Test?
Unlike traditional culture-based STI tests, the PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) test offers:
🔬 High Accuracy – Over 99% sensitivity and specificity
⚡ Fast Results – Detects infections in 24-48 hours
🦠 Multiple Infection Detection – Tests for multiple STIs in one sample
🚫 Early Detection – Identifies STIs before symptoms appear
Who Should Get an STI PCR Test?
You may need STI testing if you:
✅ Have had unprotected sex or a new sexual partner
✅ Are experiencing symptoms such as burning, discharge, or sores
✅ Have a partner diagnosed with an STI
✅ Are pregnant and need routine screening
✅ Engage in high-risk sexual behavior
✅ Want peace of mind about your sexual health
Symptoms of Common STIs
STI | Common Symptoms |
Chlamydia | Burning sensation during urination, abnormal discharge |
Gonorrhea | Painful urination, pelvic pain, discharge |
Trichomoniasis | Itching, foul-smelling discharge, pain during sex |
Mycoplasma Genitalium | Urethritis, vaginal discomfort, post-sex bleeding |
Syphilis | Painless sores, rash, fever, swollen lymph nodes |
Herpes (HSV-1, HSV-2) | Painful blisters or sores, itching |
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) | Genital warts (some strains), cervical cancer risk |
HIV | Flu-like symptoms, swollen glands, fatigue |
What Infections Does the STI PCR Test Detect?
🔹 Bacterial STIs:
- Chlamydia trachomatis
- Neisseria gonorrhoeae (Gonorrhea)
- Mycoplasma genitalium
- Ureaplasma urealyticum
- Treponema pallidum (Syphilis)
- Haemophilus ducreyi (Chancroid)
🔹 Viral STIs:
- Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV-1 & HSV-2)
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV) (High-Risk Strains)
- Hepatitis B Virus (HBV)
- Hepatitis C Virus (HCV)
- Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV-1 & HIV-2)
🔹 Parasitic STIs:
- Trichomonas vaginalis
How is the STI PCR Test Performed?
1️⃣ Sample Collection – A urine sample, swab, or blood sample is collected depending on the infection being tested.
2️⃣ DNA/RNA Extraction – The sample is processed to extract genetic material from the pathogens.
3️⃣ PCR Amplification & Detection – The test amplifies the DNA/RNA of STIs for highly sensitive detection.
4️⃣ Results Interpretation – A detailed report is generated and sent to your doctor for review.
Why is PCR Testing Better Than Traditional STI Testing?
Feature | PCR Test | Traditional STI Testing |
Detection Speed | 24-48 hours | 3-7 days |
Accuracy | >99% | Lower sensitivity for some infections |
Multiple Pathogen Detection | Yes | Limited |
Early Detection | Yes | May require symptoms to appear |
Understanding Your Test Results
- Positive Result – Confirms the presence of an STI; treatment will be recommended by your doctor.
- Negative Result – No infection detected, but regular screening is still advised.
- Inconclusive Result – A retest may be needed if the sample was inadequate.
What Happens After Testing?
Your doctor will:
✔ Discuss your results in detail
✔ Prescribe antibiotics or antiviral medications if needed
✔ Provide treatment for you and your partner (if applicable)
✔ Recommend follow-up testing or additional screening
Insurance & Cost Coverage
Most insurance providers cover STI PCR testing if deemed medically necessary. We offer discreet billing options and can assist with insurance verification and financial assistance programs.
Why Choose Our Lab for STI PCR Testing?
✔ Confidential & Discreet Testing – Private, secure, and HIPAA-compliant
✔ Comprehensive STI Panels – Test for multiple infections in one sample
✔ Fast Turnaround Time – Results available within 24-48 hours
✔ High Sensitivity & Accuracy – Early and reliable detection
✔ CLIA-Certified & CAP-Accredited Laboratory – Ensuring high-quality testing standards
What is a Gastrointestinal Infection?
A Gastrointestinal (GI) infection occurs when bacteria, viruses, or parasites infect the digestive tract, leading to diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and fever. These infections can be caused by contaminated food, water, person-to-person contact, or poor hygiene.
Traditional stool cultures can take several days to identify the cause, but the Gastrointestinal Infection PCR Test provides fast, accurate, and comprehensive detection of multiple pathogens within 24-48 hours using advanced molecular technology.
What is the Gastrointestinal Infection PCR Test?
The Gastrointestinal Infection PCR Test is a molecular diagnostic test that detects bacteria, viruses, and parasites that cause GI illnesses. Unlike traditional tests that require longer processing times and may miss certain infections, PCR testing provides:
✅ Highly Accurate Detection – Over 99% sensitivity and specificity
⚡ Rapid Results – Identifies infections within 24-48 hours instead of days or weeks
🦠 Simultaneous Multi-Pathogen Detection – Detects multiple infections in a single test
🚫 Detects Antibiotic Resistance Genes – Guides treatment by identifying drug-resistant infections
Who Should Get a Gastrointestinal Infection PCR Test?
This test is recommended for individuals experiencing:
✅ Severe or prolonged diarrhea (lasting more than 3 days)
✅ Bloody diarrhea or mucus in stool
✅ Severe abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting
✅ Fever, dehydration, or fatigue associated with GI symptoms
✅ Recent travel to areas with poor sanitation or high infection risk
✅ Immunocompromised conditions (HIV, cancer, or organ transplant patients)
Common Symptoms of GI Infections
🛑 Frequent watery diarrhea
🛑 Abdominal cramps or pain
🛑 Fever and chills
🛑 Nausea and vomiting
🛑 Blood or mucus in stool
🛑 Severe dehydration (dry mouth, dizziness, low urine output)
What Pathogens Does the Gastrointestinal PCR Test Detect?
Bacterial Pathogens:
- Clostridium difficile (C. diff toxin A/B) – Antibiotic-associated diarrhea
- Salmonella species – Common foodborne infection
- Shigella species – Causes severe dysentery
- Escherichia coli (E. coli O157:H7, Enterotoxigenic E. coli, Shiga-toxin-producing E. coli) – Linked to food poisoning and traveler’s diarrhea
- Campylobacter species – One of the most common causes of bacterial diarrhea
- Vibrio species (including Vibrio cholerae) – Associated with cholera and seafood poisoning
- Yersinia enterocolitica – Causes severe abdominal pain, mimicking appendicitis
Viral Pathogens:
- Norovirus – The leading cause of viral gastroenteritis (“stomach flu”)
- Rotavirus – Common in young children, causing severe diarrhea
- Sapovirus – Another cause of viral gastroenteritis
- Adenovirus (Enteric Type 40/41) – Causes prolonged diarrhea, especially in infants
Parasitic Pathogens:
- Giardia lamblia – Causes Giardiasis, leading to prolonged diarrhea and bloating
- Cryptosporidium species – Causes severe diarrhea in immunocompromised patients
- Entamoeba histolytica – Causes Amoebiasis, leading to dysentery and liver abscesses
Antibiotic Resistance Genes Detected:
- difficile toxin genes (TcdA, TcdB) – Indicates presence of Clostridium difficile infection
- Beta-lactam resistance genes (blaCTX-M, blaNDM, blaOXA-48) – Indicates resistance to cephalosporins and carbapenems
- Macrolide resistance genes (ermB) – Indicates resistance to macrolide antibiotics like azithromycin
How is the Gastrointestinal PCR Test Performed?
1️⃣ Sample Collection – A stool sample is collected in a sterile container at a lab or healthcare provider’s office.
2️⃣ DNA/RNA Extraction – The genetic material of pathogens is isolated.
3️⃣ PCR Amplification & Detection – The test amplifies the DNA/RNA of viruses, bacteria, and parasites.
4️⃣ Results Interpretation – A detailed report is generated and sent to your doctor for review.
Why is PCR Testing Better Than Traditional Stool Culture?
Feature | PCR Test | Traditional Stool Culture |
Speed | 24-48 hours | 3-7 days |
Accuracy | >99% | Lower sensitivity |
Multiple Pathogen Detection | Yes | No |
Antibiotic Resistance Detection | Yes | No |
Early Detection | Yes | May require symptoms to appear |
Understanding Your Test Results
- Positive Result – Confirms the presence of one or more pathogens; your doctor will provide appropriate treatment.
- Negative Result – No infection detected, but symptoms should still be monitored.
- Antibiotic Resistance Detected – Your doctor will adjust antibiotic therapy
What Happens After Testing?
Depending on your results, your doctor may:
✔ Prescribe targeted antibiotics, antivirals, or antiparasitic medications
✔ Recommend hydration therapy and probiotics for gut recovery
✔ Advise dietary changes and hygiene practices to prevent reinfection
✔ Suggest further testing if symptoms persist
Insurance & Cost Coverage
Most insurance providers cover PCR testing for gastrointestinal infections when medically necessary. Our team assists with insurance verification, pre-authorization, and billing support.
Why Choose Our Lab for Gastrointestinal PCR Testing?
✔ Comprehensive Multi-Pathogen Panel – Detects bacteria, viruses, and parasites in one test
✔ CLIA-Certified & CAP-Accredited Laboratory – Ensuring high-quality diagnostic standards
✔ Fast Turnaround Time – Results available within 24-48 hours
✔ Expert Consultation Available – Helping physicians interpret complex infection cases
✔ Advanced Molecular Technology – Utilizes state-of-the-art PCR testing for accurate detection
What is a Nail Infection?
Nail infections, also known as onychomycosis, occur when fungi, bacteria, or yeast infect the fingernails or toenails. These infections can cause discoloration, thickening, brittleness, pain, and nail detachment. Traditional lab cultures for diagnosing nail infections can take weeks and often fail to detect slow-growing pathogens.
The Nail Infection PCR Test provides a fast, accurate, and comprehensive diagnosis using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technology, detecting fungal, bacterial, and viral infections within 24-48 hours.
Why Choose the PCR Test for Nail Infections?
Unlike conventional microscopy or culture tests, which may miss certain pathogens, the PCR test directly detects DNA/RNA of infecting organisms, providing:
✅ High Accuracy – Detects infections with >99% sensitivity and specificity
⚡ Rapid Results – Identifies pathogens in 24-48 hours instead of waiting weeks for culture growth
🦠 Multi-Pathogen Detection – Identifies fungi, bacteria, and viruses in a single test
🚫 Detects Antibiotic & Antifungal Resistance – Helps guide targeted treatment
Who Should Get a Nail Infection PCR Test?
You may need PCR testing for nail infections if you have:
✅ Thickened, discolored, or brittle nails
✅ Nail lifting, crumbling, or deformity
✅ Persistent nail infections that do not respond to treatment
✅ Diabetes or an immune condition that increases infection risk
✅ Recurrent nail infections
Symptoms of Nail Infections
🛑 Yellow, brown, or white discoloration
🛑 Thickened or distorted nail shape
🛑 Brittle, crumbling nails
🛑 Separation of the nail from the nail bed
🛑 Pain or foul odor around the nail
What Pathogens Does the Nail Infection PCR Test Detect?
Fungal Nail Infections (Onychomycosis):
- Dermatophytes (Most common cause of fungal nail infections)
- Trichophyton rubrum
- Trichophyton mentagrophytes
- Epidermophyton floccosum
- Non-Dermatophyte Fungi
- Aspergillus species (Mold-related infections)
- Scopulariopsis brevicaulis (Hard-to-treat fungal nail infections)
- Yeast Infections
- Candida albicans (Common in diabetics and immunocompromised individuals)
- Candida parapsilosis
Bacterial Nail Infections:
- Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Green nail syndrome)
- Staphylococcus aureus (Bacterial paronychia)
- Streptococcus species
Viral Nail Infections:
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV) – Associated with periungual warts
- Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV-1 & HSV-2) – Can cause painful nail lesions
Antifungal & Antibiotic Resistance Genes Detected:
- Azole Resistance (CYP51A mutations) – Resistance to common antifungal treatments
- Beta-lactam & Methicillin Resistance (mecA gene) – Indicates MRSA presence in bacterial infections
How is the Nail Infection PCR Test Performed?
1️⃣ Sample Collection – A small nail clipping or debris sample is taken from the affected nail.
2️⃣ DNA/RNA Extraction – The sample is processed to extract genetic material from pathogens.
3️⃣ PCR Amplification & Analysis – The genetic material is amplified for highly sensitive detection.
4️⃣ Results Interpretation – A report is generated and sent to your doctor for precise treatment planning.
Why is PCR Testing Better Than Traditional Culture?
Feature | PCR Test | Traditional Culture |
Speed | 24-48 hours | 2-6 weeks |
Accuracy | >99% | May miss slow-growing fungi |
Multiple Pathogen Detection | Yes | No |
Antibiotic & Antifungal Resistance Detection | Yes | No |
Understanding Your Test Results
🔹 Positive Result – Confirms a fungal, bacterial, or viral infection; your doctor will prescribe targeted treatment.
🔹 Negative Result – No infection detected, but symptoms should still be monitored.
🔹 Resistance Detected – Your doctor will adjust antifungal or antibiotic therapy accordingly.
What Happens After Testing?
✔ Targeted Treatment – Your doctor will prescribe an oral or topical antifungal, antibiotic, or antiviral treatment based on your results.
✔ Proper Nail Care – Regular trimming, keeping nails dry, and antifungal treatments can help prevent reinfection.
✔ Follow-Up Testing – If symptoms persist, retesting may be necessary to monitor treatment success.
Insurance & Cost Coverage
Most insurance providers cover PCR testing for nail infections when medically necessary. Our team assists with insurance verification and billing support.
Why Choose Our Lab for Nail Infection PCR Testing?
✔ Comprehensive Pathogen Screening – Detects fungi, bacteria, and viruses in one test
✔ CLIA-Certified & CAP-Accredited Lab – Ensuring high-quality diagnostic standards
✔ Fast Turnaround Time – Results available within 24-48 hours
✔ Advanced Molecular Technology – Uses state-of-the-art PCR testing for precision
What is the Respiratory Pathogens Panel (RRP) – PCR Test?
The Respiratory Pathogens Panel (RRP) PCR Test is an advanced molecular diagnostic test designed to detect multiple bacterial, viral, and fungal infections that cause respiratory illnesses. This highly accurate test utilizes Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technology to quickly identify respiratory pathogens, allowing for rapid diagnosis and targeted treatment.
Why is the RRP PCR Test Important?
Respiratory infections can be caused by a variety of viruses, bacteria, and fungi, many of which have overlapping symptoms. The RRP PCR test provides fast and precise identification of the pathogen, helping doctors determine:
✅ The exact cause of respiratory symptoms
✅ Whether antibiotics are needed (bacterial vs. viral infection)
✅ If a patient has a single or multiple infections
✅ The appropriate treatment based on pathogen detection
Who Should Get the RRP PCR Test?
This test is recommended for individuals experiencing:
✅ Cough, fever, difficulty breathing, or chest tightness
✅ Severe flu-like symptoms that are persistent or worsening
✅ High-risk conditions (elderly, immunocompromised, or those with chronic lung diseases)
✅ Exposure to someone with a known respiratory infection
✅ Recurring or long-lasting respiratory infections
What Infections Does the RRP PCR Test Detect?
Viral Pathogens:
- Influenza A & B (Flu Virus)
- SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19 Virus)
- Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV A & B)
- Human Rhinovirus/Enterovirus (Common Cold Viruses)
- Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV)
- Parainfluenza Virus (Types 1, 2, 3, 4)
- Adenovirus (Common in Respiratory Infections)
- Coronavirus Strains (229E, NL63, OC43, HKU1)
Bacterial Pathogens:
- Mycoplasma pneumoniae (Atypical Pneumonia)
- Chlamydia pneumoniae (Walking Pneumonia)
- Bordetella pertussis (Whooping Cough)
- Bordetella parapertussis (Mild Whooping Cough Variant)
- Haemophilus influenzae (Secondary Bacterial Infection Post-Flu)
- Streptococcus pneumoniae (Pneumococcal Pneumonia)
- Legionella pneumophila (Legionnaires’ Disease)
Fungal Pathogens (if included in testing panel):
- Aspergillus species (Fungal Pneumonia in Immunocompromised Patients)
- Pneumocystis jirovecii (Pneumocystis Pneumonia – PCP, Common in HIV Patients)
How is the RRP PCR Test Performed?
1️⃣ Sample Collection – A nasopharyngeal swab, throat swab, or sputum sample is collected.
2️⃣ DNA/RNA Extraction – The genetic material of pathogens is isolated from the sample.
3️⃣ PCR Amplification & Analysis – The test amplifies and detects the genetic material of viruses, bacteria, and fungi.
4️⃣ Results Interpretation – A detailed report is generated and provided to your physician.
Benefits of the RRP PCR Test
✅ Fast & Accurate Diagnosis – Provides results within 24-48 hours
✅ Simultaneous Multi-Pathogen Detection – Identifies multiple infections in one test
✅ Reduces Unnecessary Antibiotic Use – Helps determine bacterial vs. viral infection
✅ Improved Treatment Decisions – Guides doctors in choosing the right medication
✅ Essential for High-Risk Individuals – Early detection prevents serious complications
How Does PCR Compare to Traditional Testing?
Feature | PCR Test | Traditional Culture or Rapid Tests |
Speed | 24-48 hours | 3-7 days (culture testing) |
Accuracy | >99% | Lower sensitivity |
Multiple Pathogen Detection | Yes | No |
Antibiotic Resistance Detection | In some panels | No |
Interpreting Your Test Results
- Positive Result – Confirms the presence of a respiratory pathogen. Your doctor will provide appropriate treatment.
- Negative Result – No infection detected, but symptoms should still be monitored.
- Multiple Pathogens Detected – More than one infection is present, requiring specialized treatment.
What Happens After Testing?
Depending on your results, your doctor may:
✔ Prescribe antivirals or antibiotics based on pathogen detection
✔ Recommend supportive care (hydration, rest, oxygen therapy)
✔ Suggest quarantine or infection prevention measures
✔ Perform additional testing for complications such as pneumonia
Insurance & Cost Coverage
Most insurance providers cover RRP PCR testing for individuals with symptoms or high-risk conditions. Our team assists with insurance verification, pre-authorization, and financial options.
Why Choose Our Lab for RRP PCR Testing?
✔ Comprehensive Multi-Pathogen Panel – Detects over 20+ respiratory infections
✔ CLIA-Certified & CAP-Accredited Laboratory – Ensuring high-quality diagnostic standards
✔ Fast Turnaround Time – Results available within 24-48 hours
✔ Expert Consultation Available – Helps doctors and patients interpret results
✔ Advanced Molecular Technology – Utilizes state-of-the-art PCR testing for accuracy
What is a Wound Care PCR Test?
A Wound Care PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) Test is an advanced molecular diagnostic test that rapidly identifies bacteria, viruses, fungi, and antibiotic resistance genes present in infected wounds. Unlike traditional culture-based methods, PCR testing offers fast and accurate results within 24-48 hours, allowing for targeted treatment and better wound healing outcomes.
Why is PCR Testing Important for Wound Infections?
Wound infections can delay healing, increase the risk of complications, and lead to serious conditions such as cellulitis, sepsis, or osteomyelitis (bone infection). The Wound Care PCR Test helps identify the exact pathogens causing infection and detects antibiotic resistance genes, allowing for precise and effective treatment.
Key Benefits of Wound Care PCR Testing
✅ Rapid Detection – Results within 24-48 hours, compared to 3-5 days for culture testing
✅ High Sensitivity & Accuracy – Identifies hard-to-grow bacteria, fungi, and viruses
✅ Detects Polymicrobial Infections – Finds multiple pathogens in chronic and non-healing wounds
✅ Guides Targeted Treatment – Reduces unnecessary antibiotic use by detecting antibiotic-resistant genes
✅ Minimally Invasive Testing – Requires only a swab or tissue sample
Who Should Get a Wound Care PCR Test?
This test is recommended for patients with:
✅ Chronic or non-healing wounds (lasting more than 2-4 weeks)
✅ Diabetic foot ulcers or pressure sores with signs of infection
✅ Surgical wounds that are not healing properly
✅ Burn wounds showing infection symptoms
✅ Trauma wounds with redness, swelling, or pus formation
✅ Infected wounds in immunocompromised individuals
Common Signs of Wound Infection
🛑 Increased redness, swelling, or warmth around the wound
🛑 Pain that worsens instead of improving
🛑 Pus or foul-smelling drainage
🛑 Slow or stalled wound healing
🛑 Fever, chills, or fatigue (signs of systemic infection)
What Pathogens Does the Wound Care PCR Test Detect?
Bacterial Infections:
- Staphylococcus aureus (including MRSA) – Common in skin and wound infections
- Pseudomonas aeruginosa – Frequently found in burn wounds and chronic ulcers
- Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A Strep) – Causes severe soft tissue infections
- Enterococcus species (VRE) – Common in hospital-acquired infections
- Klebsiella pneumoniae – Found in surgical site infections
- Escherichia coli (E. coli) – Can cause complicated wound infections
Fungal Pathogens:
- Candida species – Can delay wound healing and cause fungal infections
- Aspergillus species – A risk in immunocompromised patients
Viral Pathogens:
- Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV-1, HSV-2) – Can cause painful skin ulcers
- Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV) – Linked to shingles-related skin infections
Antibiotic Resistance Genes Detected:
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
- Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE)
- Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamases (ESBLs) – Resistance to penicillin and cephalosporins
- Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) – Resistance to powerful antibiotics
How is the Wound Care PCR Test Performed?
1️⃣ Sample Collection – A swab or tissue sample is taken from the wound site.
2️⃣ DNA/RNA Extraction – The sample is processed to extract microbial genetic material.
3️⃣ PCR Amplification & Analysis – The genetic material is amplified to detect bacterial, viral, and fungal infections.
4️⃣ Results Interpretation – A detailed report is provided to the physician for targeted treatment.
PCR vs. Traditional Wound Culture – Why Choose PCR?
Feature | PCR Test | Traditional Wound Culture |
Speed | 24-48 hours | 3-7 days |
Accuracy | >99% | Lower sensitivity |
Multiple Pathogen Detection | Yes | May miss some organisms |
Antibiotic Resistance Detection | Yes | No |
Growth Required for Detection | No | Yes (may miss slow-growing bacteria) |
Understanding Your Test Results
🔹 Positive Result – Confirms the presence of bacteria, fungi, or viruses; your doctor will prescribe the appropriate treatment.
🔹 Negative Result – No infection detected, but symptoms should still be monitored.
🔹 Antibiotic Resistance Detected – Your doctor will adjust your antibiotic therapy accordingly.
What Happens After Testing?
Based on your results, your doctor may:
✔ Prescribe targeted antibiotics or antifungal medication
✔ Recommend wound debridement or specialized wound care
✔ Suggest lifestyle modifications for better healing
✔ Refer you to a specialist for chronic wound management
Insurance & Cost Coverage
Most insurance providers cover PCR testing for wound infections when medically necessary. Our team can assist with insurance verification, pre-authorization, and billing support.
Why Choose Our Lab for Wound Care PCR Testing?
✔ Comprehensive Pathogen Detection – Identifies bacteria, fungi, and viruses in one test
✔ CLIA-Certified & CAP-Accredited Lab – Ensuring high-quality diagnostic standards
✔ Fast Turnaround Time – Results available within 24-48 hours
✔ Expert Consultation Available – Helping physicians interpret complex infection cases
✔ Advanced Molecular Technology – Using state-of-the-art PCR testing for accurate detection
Why Choose Medex Laboratories Inc.?
- State-of-the-Art PCR & Genetic Testing
- Fast & Reliable Results
- CLIA-Certified & HIPAA-Compliant Laboratory
- Highly Accurate & Comprehensive Panels
- Confidential Testing with Expert Analysis