Fungal Detection Methods in Microbiology

All fungi are mesophiles and grow best at moderate temperatures around 25°C.

Dimorphic pathogens are cultured at 37°C to grow their infectious filament forms.

Molds are anaerobic and do not require oxygen for growth.

Spores are formed on the surface of liquid cultures.

Direct microscopy examination of clinical specimens is a slow and inaccurate method for diagnosis.

Candida reveals spherical, single, multiple budding about 2-15µm in diameter.

Germ tube test is specific for Cryptococcus neoformans.

Indian Ink stain is used to diagnose Candida.

Acid-fast stain is used to detect fungal pathogens.

Special laboratory hoods are not necessary for working with fungal pathogens.