CANDIDA AURIS TESTING BY PCR PERFORMED BY COMPUNET

CompuNet is pleased to announce the launch of a new test – Candida auris by PCR in our Infectious Disease Department.

Candida auris (C. auris) is a fungus that can cause life-threatening, often multidrug-resistant, infections. C. auris contributes to significant risk of infection among long-term patients in healthcare settings or intensive care units and among people with serious underlying medical conditions.

Patients can be colonized without having symptoms with the most common sites of colonization being the axilla (armpit) and groin. Colonization is a risk factor for bloodstream infection (candidemia) and colonized patients can easily spread C. auris to other patients. Nosocomial transmission occurs via contaminated medical equipment, such as catheters or feeding tubes. Early detection can limit the spread of C. auris.

The PCR method performed by CompuNet addresses some constraints of culture-based methods for detecting C. auris colonization. PCR can differentiate C. auris from other closely related species (e.g., Candida albicans, Candida glabrata). Furthermore, PCR can be performed much faster with CompuNet performing testing 7 days per week. If the PCR detects C. auris, a culture will be performed to determine sensitivity.

Please note: This test will be automatically added to our 2024 client fee schedules at $70.18. This test is also billable to third party payers as long as it is medically necessary and an ICD10 code is provided with the order.

CompuNet Test Code: CAPCR | PH EPIC Test Code: LAB10340 | Specimen Type: Axilla or Groin Swabs