A mycological test is a microbiological test that is performed to detect and identify the presence of pathogenic fungi, i.e. diagnosis of fungal infections. These are special biochemical tests and procedures that can diagnose infections fungal infections – after collecting the material (vaginal smear or blood sample), culture and its evaluation under microscope.

Microscopic fungi belongs to the natural physiological flora of humans – they settle on the skin, in digestive tract and oral cavity. Some of them don’t usually cause disease symptoms, however some species are pathogenic and require treatment. Breeding on the basis of the collected material makes it possible to identify the species that caused the symptoms and determine its drug sensitivity, i.e. determining what medications it is sensitive to. Thanks to that s doctor introduces the so-called targeted treatment. However, it is worth adding that due to the fact that the majority of them are fungus grows slowly – the entire test may take a long time (up to several weeks). Therefore in the meantime other diagnostic methods are used simultaneously.

Mycological studies are carried out in case of suspicion of a fungal infection – to confirm it or eliminate it and identify the species causing the symptoms and choose the appropriate treatment.

Symptoms of superficial mycosis depending on the part of the body may be:

• red and itchy skin (especially in places sheltered and moist, such as the external genitals, vagina and feet)
• white spots in the mouth (called thrush)
• thickening and yellowing of the nails,
• vaginal discharge in case of fungal vaginosis.

The risk of contracting fungi increases with age and depends on several factors – incl. host immune status, diet, comorbidities and influences of the environment. Pregnant and sick women are much more likely to suffer from mycosis of the vagina and vulva, suchas suffering from diabetes, cancer, AIDS and other diseases that negatively affect immunity of the body.

Other factors that contribute to vaginal mycosis:

• wearing tight, windproof clothes – including underwear,
• sedentary lifestyle,
• use of the sauna and swimming pool,
• frequent use of antibiotics,
• excessive hygiene of life.

Mycosis of the vagina and vulva causes irritation of the mucosa, persistent itching, swelling, redness and the appearance of cheesy discharge. Usually the smell of the vagina does not change (it can be described as yeast or milk). Sometimes a woman feels pain during or after intercourse. Mycological examination is also often performed during treatment to verify its effectiveness and possibly modify or terminate them.