Easy, in-office web space procedure with fast PCR results

While interdigital infectious dermatitis may be due to a variety of organisms that cause similar presentations, we know their treatment differs.

BakoDx developed a highly sensitive and highly specific PCR test to identify the exact infectious agents involved in web space dermatitis. The simple skin scrape test is performed in-office, providing podiatric clinicians with ease of use, rapid results and the most accurate diagnostic method available – allowing for optimal patient satisfaction.

The BakoDx Web Space PCR assay identifies the fungal and/or bacterial causative agent within the web space keratin, when present, resulting in the clinically identified dermatitis.

  • Dermatophytes
  • Candida spp
  • Corynebacterium minutissimum
  • Pseudomonas aeruginosa
  • Staphylococcus aureus*

*If positive, reflex test is performed for the mecA gene of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).

“This test is designed for those patients with web space dermatitis, where an infectious etiology may be included in the differential diagnosis,” said Dr. Wayne L. Bakotic, Chief Medical Officer at BakoDx. “PCR analysis allows us to identify the infectious agent in the most accurate, efficient and rapid manner.”

Differential diagnosis for interdigital dermatitis may include Corynebacterium minutissimum in erythrasma, tinea pedis, candidal intertrigo and/or primary or secondary bacterial infections. There is also a growing awareness of gram-negative bacterial web space infections. The differential diagnosis of web space dermatitis would also include non-infectious etiologies such as web space eczema or psoriasis.[1],[2]

The BakoDx Web Space panel identifies the causative agent of interdigital skin infections with the highest sensitivity and specificity available, compared to conventional diagnostic methods. Results are available within 1-2 days, giving clinicians the advantage of rapid, targeted patient treatment plans. The comprehensive molecular analysis report provides a clear and detailed explanation of the test results and therapeutic options, with literary references.

[1] Hainer BL. Dermatophyte infections. Am Fam Physician. 2003; 67(1):101-8.
[2] Bristow I. Non-ulcerative skin pathologies of the diabetic foot. Diabetes Metab Res Rev. 2008;24(Suppl1):S84-89.

Web Space
PCR Test
Culture Histopathology KOH
(fungal)
Turnaround Time 1-2 days 2-28 days 2-3 days Same day
Sensitivity 94-100%3 50-75% 85-90%1 73-91%2
Specificity 97-100%3 100% 72%1 42-91%2

[1] Internal validation study with clinical samples, ranges based on entire panel of target organisms. [2] J Am Acad Dermatol. 2003 Aug;49(2):193-7. [3] Jacob Oren Levitt, Barrie H. Levitt, Arash Akhavan, and Howard Yanofsky, “The Sensitivity and Specificity of Potassium Hydroxide Smear and Fungal Culture Relative to Clinical Assessment in the Evaluation of Tinea Pedis: A Pooled Analysis,” Dermatology Research and Practice, vol. 2010, Article ID 764843, 8 pages, 2010; Journal of Basic & Clinical Medicine 2016; 5(2):4-6

“The identification of pathogens present in web space infections is critically important for prompt and effective therapy,” said Dr. William P. Scherer, Senior Podiatric Medical Advisor for BakoDx. “Providing the appropriate therapy reduces treatment failures and repeat patient visits. In addition, early and accurate diagnosis may also prevent secondary infections compounding the clinical presentation and adding complexity to the treatment regimen.”

While a skin biopsy is recommended for a histopathologic evaluation when neoplastic processes and non-infectious dermatitis are suspected, the web space PCR test is intended to be the first line diagnostic option for patients with superficial web space dermatitis to diagnose or rule out infectious etiologies.

LESS INVASIVE SKIN SCRAPE SAMPLE COLLECTION

The collection method for a patient’s specimen is a superficial skin scraping performed in-office with the debris collected in a Dermapak®.

When it comes to proper web space specimen collection technique and obtaining adequate tissue, Dr. Scherer states, “the best method is to scrape exfoliated surface keratin directly into the Dermapak®, followed by wiping the instrument on the inner surface of the collection pack to ensure optimal acquisition. If visible tissue is procured from the scraping, then you likely have adequate sample for testing.”

This collection method is time saving and by far a less invasive sampling method with little to no post procedure wound care.

“With the definitive identification of the infectious agent through the use of PCR testing, physicians can rest assured their first therapeutic choice is the best option,” said Dr. Bakotic.

To begin ordering the BakoDx’s Web Space PCR test as the first option in your patient care algorithm for patients with suspected infectious dermatitis, call 855-422-5628 or visit bakodx.com/webspace.

[1] Internal validation study with clinical samples, ranges based on entire panel of target organisms.

[1] J Am Acad Dermatol. 2003 Aug;49(2):193-7.

[1] Jacob Oren Levitt, Barrie H. Levitt, Arash Akhavan, and Howard Yanofsky, “The Sensitivity and Specificity of Potassium Hydroxide Smear and Fungal Culture Relative to Clinical Assessment in the Evaluation of Tinea Pedis: A Pooled Analysis,” Dermatology Research and Practice, vol. 2010, Article ID 764843, 8 pages, 2010; Journal of Basic & Clinical Medicine 2016; 5(2):4-6