Dermatest is an innovative diagnostic system designed for the detection of dermatophyte fungi, presented in a practical dip-slide format. This tool is essential for health professionals, as it allows for the integration of culture results with the patient's clinical data, facilitating an accurate diagnosis of mycoses.

General Product Description

The Dermatest system consists of three types of culture media, each specifically formulated to isolate and identify different types of fungi. These media are:

• Malt Agar (amber): Used for the isolation of opportunistic fungi, ideal for diagnosing nonspecific fungal infections.


• Corn Meal Agar (white): Perfect for the isolation and identification of Candida albicans, due to its ability to stimulate the production of chlamydospores.


• Dermatophyte Test Medium Agar (orange): Allows for selective isolation and rapid diagnosis of dermatophytes such as Microsporum spp., Trichophyton spp., and Epidermophyton spp.. Its design includes indicators that change color in the presence of alkaline metabolites produced by dermatophytes.

Method Principle

The method of using Dermatest involves inoculating the system with clinical material taken from skin lesions, hair, or nails. The Dermatophyte Test Medium Agar, prepared according to the formula of Taplin, Zaias, and Rebell, inhibits bacterial growth and reduces contamination, ensuring more reliable results. The presence of dermatophytes is indicated by the color change of phenol red, which shifts from yellow to red.

Package Contents

Dermatest is available in various variants, allowing you to choose between packages of 10 tests and 120 tests. Each package includes pre-prepared dip-slides, ready for use.

Test Procedure

1. Removal of the dip-slide from the container.


2. Labeling the sample for proper identification.


3. Inoculation of the culture media with the collected clinical material.


4. Incubation at temperatures between 25-30°C for a period of 48 hours to 7 days.

Results Interpretation

The presence of dermatophytes is confirmed by the red coloration of the colonies on the Dermatophyte Test Medium Agar. Results may vary based on the type of fungus and growth time, with a clear chromatic distinction for different fungal agents.

Quality Control

To ensure the reliability of results, dip-slides are inoculated with standardized microbial strains, allowing for verification of growth and expected color reaction.

Clinical Applications

Dermatest is essential for clinical and dermatological laboratories, offering rapid and reliable diagnosis of mycoses, particularly those caused by dermatophytes. This system supports effective clinical management of fungal infections of the skin, nails, and hair, contributing to improving patient health and well-being.

Advantages of Dermatest

• Rapid and accurate diagnosis of fungal infections.


• Ease of use thanks to the dip-slide format.


• Reduction of bacterial contamination.


• Support for clinical management of mycoses.