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Microbial investigations of fungal infections: An overview

The incidence of fungal infections has increased considerably in recent years. Fungal infections remain an important cause of morbidity and mortality. New diagnostic approaches have been developed based on non-culture-based methods, which may allow early diagnosis and treatment of fungal infections. Laboratory procedures in diagnostic mycology are directed mainly toward the direct demonstration of the pathogenic fungi in clinical specimens by microscopy along with successful isolation of pathogenic fungi by using various culture techniques. They also help in the prediction of possible therapeutic outcome by determining antifungal susceptibility and can also be used in epidemiological studies by tracing the source of infection. An active interaction between the clinician, microbiologist, and pathologist facilitates the exact diagnosis and accurate interpretation of culture and histopathological results. This article focuses on specific conventional and rapid advanced techniques concerning a practical approach to the lab investigations in fungal infections.