Wound panels work by analyzing the genetic material (DNA and RNA) of the pathogens present within a wound.
After the sample is collected, the lab performs polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing to quickly identify which pathogens are present within the wound. A PCR test works by amplifying and detecting genetic material, providing a significantly more comprehensive and accurate diagnosis.
The first step with any wound pathogen panel is for a physician to collect a sample from the wound. This sample is done with a flocked tipped specimen swab (similar to a Q-tip).
Once the sample is collected, it is sent to a laboratory where it will undergo the preparation steps necessary for a proper PCR test (this includes breaking down the sample and extracting the genetic material present).
The reason PCR testing is chosen as the new standard for a wound pathogen panel is the accuracy, reliability, and speed provided. PCR tests are incredibly sensitive with the unique ability to detect the presence, or absence of a pathogen even with a smaller sample size. It’s far more precise compared to traditional culture tests which have historically been used.