Mycology resources and training

The UKCMN produces various resources which laboratories may find useful. Descriptions and links to these resources are provided below.

In addition there are several Mycology qualifications currently available which the UKCMN supports. Please find links for more information below.

Resources

Algorithm for reporting fungal culture and microscopy results from superficial samples. The UKCMN has produced an algorithm to aid in the reporting of fungal cultures. This algorithm is currently in trial, therefore please feel free to use it and return comments to Dr Richard Hobson (Richard.hobson@leedsth.nhs.uk) with 'UKCMN algorithm' in the subject line.

UKCMN fungal culture and microscopy algorithm (ZIP Archive, 371 KB)

You need MS Access and WinZip installed on your computer to run the database.

Save the file above to a suitable location, then right click on the file and select rename. Add the extension .zip to the name (should look as follows: UKCMN.zip) and press enter.

Then double click on the file and it should open an unzip program such as WinZip:

• Click on the zipped file called “UKCMN algorithm_v5.0_working_version.mdb”
• Click 'no' when the prompt box appears
• Click ‘open’ on the second prompt box
• The algorithm should then be ready to use

Please contact the chris.lucas@hpa.org.uk if you have any trouble.

Fungal Diseases in the UK 2006  - Report by the Working Group of the Advisory Committee for Fungal Infection and Superficial Parasites on how the provision of support services for fungal diseases in the UK can be improved.

Tinea capitis in the United Kingdom: A report on its diagnosis, management and prevention.

Factsheets for schools also have information on athlete's foot and headlice.

Training

Diploma in Medical Mycology

A diploma in medical mycology utilising DVD and web-based distance learning was launched at UCL in 2004 with support from the BSMM. The aim of this programme is to enhance the knowledge, skills and experience of individuals working in the field of medical mycology via distance and reflective learning, a series of practical classes and a research project.

MSc in Medical Mycology

From 2006 the BSMM/UCL course in medical mycology was enhanced to allow the award of MSc. This course aims to provide systematic training in the subject of medically important fungi, the diseases they cause and their diagnosis and treatment and to enable the individuals completing the course to provide and take responsibility for a broad-based routine mycology service.