Malassezia Species Quantitative Test
Short Name: Malassezia Quantitative
Also known as: Malassezia PCR, Malassezia Quantitative PCR, Malassezia DNA Test
Malassezia Species Quantitative Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹6,800. Uses Real-Time PCR on Skin swab / skin scraping samples. Results in Reports are available on the 3rd working day. Email reports within 36 hours after release; phone support 24 hours.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal
Consultant Microbiologist · Reg: 27670
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The purpose of the Malassezia Species Quantitative Test is to detect and quantify the presence of Malassezia species in skin lesions. It helps confirm a clinical diagnosis of Malassezia-associated conditions, differentiate from other skin infections, and guide appropriate antifungal therapy. Quantitative results allow clinicians to assess the severity of overgrowth and monitor response to treatment.
- Test Code
- 6189
- CPT Code
- 87101
- ICD Code
- B36.9
- Price
- ₹6,800
- Sample Type
- Skin swab / skin scraping
- Result Time
- Reports are available on the 3rd working day. Email reports within 36 hours after release; phone support 24 hours.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Real-Time PCR
Sample Collection
Avoid using antifungal creams, shampoos, or other topical treatments on the affected area for at least 2 weeks before sample collection. Inform your doctor about any medications you are using.
Method: Swab of affected skin area
Laboratory Analysis
A healthcare professional will gently swab the affected skin area. The procedure is quick and painless.
Report Delivery
No special precautions are required. You can resume normal activities immediately.
Timeline: Reports are available on the 3rd working day. Email reports within 36 hours after release; phone support 24 hours.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of the Malassezia Species Quantitative Test is to detect and quantify the presence of Malassezia species in skin lesions. It helps confirm a clinical diagnosis of Malassezia-associated conditions, differentiate from other skin infections, and guide appropriate antifungal therapy. Quantitative results allow clinicians to assess the severity of overgrowth and monitor response to treatment.
How to Prepare
- Do not apply any lotions or creams on the test area before collection
- Avoid washing the area for at least 24 hours prior to collection
- Inform the lab if you are using any topical medications
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"Quantitative PCR for Malassezia provides precise fungal load, guiding targeted antifungal therapy and monitoring treatment response."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Insufficient sample quantity
- Sample not in appropriate transport medium
- Sample received after prolonged delay
- Sample contaminated or leaking
Understanding Your Results
No Malassezia DNA detected. Symptoms may be due to other causes.
Low fungal load; may indicate colonization. Clinical correlation advised.
Moderate fungal load; likely associated with active infection.
High fungal load; strongly supports Malassezia-associated disease.
Consult a dermatologist if you experience persistent itching, flaking, redness, or skin lesions that do not respond to over-the-counter treatments. Early diagnosis can prevent complications.
Limitations
- ⚠Test detects DNA, not viability of organisms
- ⚠May not differentiate between colonization and active infection
- ⚠Results should be correlated with clinical findings
- ⚠Not intended for drug susceptibility testing
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minimal risk of mild irritation at swab site
- ●No significant risks associated with the test
Interfering Factors
- ●Use of topical antifungal agents within 2 weeks before sample collection
- ●Recent use of medicated shampoos
- ●Improper sample collection or storage
- ●Contamination during collection
Compare With Similar Tests
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Malassezia Species Quantitative Test?
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