The role of clinical mycology reference laboratories

Abstract

Mycology reference laboratories fulfil a critical role in clinical microbiology. Staff with extensive training and expertise in mycology: (1) perform testing (e.g. fungal identification, susceptibility testing, fungal antigen detection, fungal DNA detection) using methodologies conforming to internationally accepted standards; (2) provide education and training in mycology; (3) provide scientific advice; (4) collaborate with regulatory bodies to deliver quality assurance programs; and (5) participate in research including monitoring emerging fungal trends and outbreaks. It is critically important that reference laboratories be resourced adequately for these functions and we believe there is scope to form an officially recognised network of mycology centres in Australia.