Invicta, the new, independent veterinary pharmaceutical company, has launched ChroMyco Duo, the first duo plate dermatophtye fungal test to help veterinary professionals identify the source of skin abnormalities in-house without the delay and cost of sending samples to a laboratory.

According to the Sussex-based company, ChroMyco Duo has been designed to aid practices in the accurate identification of fungal skin infections in dogs, cats, horses and all small animal species. 

ChroMyco Duo is a dual plate test with dermatophyte test media (DTM) on one side and an Enhanced Sporulation Agar (ESA) on the other. Invicta says it's this dual test capability which greatly reduces the risk of false positive results. The test is performed by veterinary staff taking a pluck of fur or skin scrape from the lesion and innoculating both sides. After three to six days, if dermatophytes are present, the DTM will turn red and the ESA will turn blue-green.

Once a colour change is identified, a sample of the culture can be taken from the ESA, a media prolific in growing dermatophytes. Veterinary staff are then able to examine the fungus microscopically and identify the species of dermatophyte before advising on treatment.

Invicta has prepared a free fungal identification chart to assist practices with the identification of cultures and is providing free updates to subscribers, as images of new fungi are submitted by practices using the kit.

The ChroMyco Duo test is supplied in boxes of five units, each individually wrapped to allow a one year shelf life. It costs £5 per unit, which Invicta says makes it very cost-effective when compared to laboratory charges. It is incubated at room temperature so no specialist equipment is required.

Rob Watkins, Managing Director of Invicta, said: "The incidence of fungal infections in practice is significant and growing. Antifungal treatments already account for more than £1m sales in the UK veterinary sector. The problem is that dermatophyte presence is often misdiagnosed.

"Until recently vets have had to rely on either single test kit, or for a full diagnosis, by sending a sample to laboratory where tests cost up to £20 and can take 14 days to complete.

"With the launch of ChroMyco Duo, we're giving practices the capability to test reliably, simply and cost-effectively for the first time."

For further information on ChroMyco Duo or Invicta, please contact the company on 01403 791313 or email them at mail@invictavet.com.

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