623 Evaluation of a PCR based microarray assay for the diagnosis of superficial fungal infections

Superficial fungal infections are among the most common dermatological conditions encountered. Current diagnostic tests include direct microscopic examination, followed by conventional culture. Fungal culture is time consuming, with an inherent risk of false negative results. The advent molecular diagnostics potentially allows faster and more sensitive methods testing. This study aims to evaluate use a PCR based microarray kit for thein vitro detection organisms commonly implicated in superficial comparing concordance rate from hair, skin nail samples. hypothesis that assay will enable responsible at level sensitivity equal or greater than A single centre prospective was carried out March 2021 February 2022. Inclusion criteria included patients clinical features suggestive (onychomycosis, tinea corporis, capitis), positive initial test on microscopy. Exclusion extremes age ie <3 >90 years old. Prior ethics approval obtained. 61 samples were final analysis. showed higher (93.44%) compared (50.82%), which statistically significant (Chi square=22.53, p<0.001). Of these, concordant pathogens isolated 82.67% cases. better able detect mixed provides preliminary support vitrodetection infections, over Potential benefits sensitivity, turn around times.