Unlike many other tests such as culture tests or test strips, ReliaHealth’s RT-PCR (Real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction) tests can find evidence of disease in the earliest stages of infection. Other tests may miss early signs of disease because there aren’t enough viruses, bacteria, or other pathogens in the sample, or your body hasn’t had enough time to develop an antibody response. Antibodies are proteins made by your immune system to attack foreign substances, such as viruses and bacteria. A PCR test is highly sensitive and can detect even a small number of DNA molecules, allowing for the identification of pathogens at the earliest stage of infection.

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technology was invented by Kary B. Mullis, an American biochemist. Mullis developed the PCR technique in 1983, and he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1993 for this groundbreaking invention. Kary B. Mullis’ development of PCR revolutionized molecular biology and diagnostics. PCR has become an essential tool in various scientific fields, including genetics, forensics, and medical diagnostics. The ability to amplify and analyze DNA rapidly and efficiently has had a profound impact on scientific research and clinical diagnostics. https://www.nobelprize.org/prizes/chemistry/1993/mullis/facts/ 

Test kits are shipped directly to your door using free overnight shipping or the fastest available shipping option based on your location. Test kits typically arrive within 1-3 business days. We also provide a prepaid shipping label on the return box so your return of the sample is seamless and arrives at the lab within a few days.

With ReliaHealth test kits your results are provided 1-2 business days after receiving your sample.

Our lab partners test for bacteria, fungi, and antibiotic resistance markers. Patients will be able to see exactly the bacteria and/or fungi found in their sample and any antibiotic resistance genes found in their sample. This allows the patient to obtain the correct antibiotic treatment (if needed) to treat their infection. 

Your sample analysis and antibiotic sensitivity results can be downloaded directly from our HIPAA Compliant, private patient portal. Simply download and/or email your results to your doctor for treatment. You can also set up a Telehealth appointment with our partner Sesame by clicking here . Use code Sesame15 to receive 15% off your appointment.

A same-day telehealth appointment is easy to set up with our partner Sesame. Click here to schedule a consultation today! Use code Sesame15 to receive 15% off your appointment.

The Commission on Office Laboratory Accreditation (COLA) is a private, non-profit accreditation organization that helps laboratories meet CLIA and other regulatory requirements. COLA Inc. accredits more than 7,400 medical laboratories and provides the clinical laboratory with a program of education and accreditation.

COLA prepares laboratories to meet both federal and state regulatory requirements. This involves recording laboratory self-assessments, performing on-site surveys, documenting corrective action plans for non-compliant incidents, and monitoring proficiency testing. COLA accreditation is renewed every 2 years. https://www.cola.org/about/

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) regulates all laboratory testing (except research) performed on humans in the U.S. through the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA). In total, CLIA covers approximately 320,000 laboratory entities. The Division of Clinical Laboratory Improvement & Quality, within the Quality, Safety & Oversight Group, under the Center for Clinical Standards and Quality (CCSQ) has the responsibility for implementing the CLIA Program. https://www.cms.gov/medicare/quality/clinical-laboratory-improvement-amendments?redirect=/CLIA/ 

Antibiotics are medicines used to fight bacterial infections. There are different types of antibiotics. Each type is only effective against certain bacteria. An antibiotic resistance test can help find out which antibiotic will be most effective in getting rid of the bacteria in your infection. The test can also be helpful in finding a treatment for antibiotic-resistant infections. Antibiotic resistance happens when standard antibiotics become less effective or ineffective against certain bacteria. Antibiotic resistance can turn once easily treatable diseases into serious, even life-threatening illnesses.

Other names: antibiotic susceptibility test, sensitivity testing, antimicrobial susceptibility test

The ReliaHealth Antibiotic Resistance test provides you with a personalized antibiotic resistance panel to assure you are prescribed the correct antibiotic that the bacteria in your infection isn’t resistant to.

No. Antibiotic resistance develops in the bacteria, not your body. Whether you’ve taken antibiotics before or not, the bacteria itself such as E.coli already have developed hundreds of resistant strains.

This is why it’s so important to not only identify a bacterial infection, but what antibiotic the bacteria is resistant to in order to treat it with the correct antibiotic. ReliaHealth’s antibiotic resistance panel is there to give you the answers so you can get the correct treatment.

Fungal nail infections are common and are caused by fungi that live in the environment. They enter through small cracks in your nail or nearby skin, causing infections. Fungal infections can affect any part of the body. Fungi are normally present in and on the body alongside various bacteria. When a fungus begins to overgrow, you can get an infection. Onychomycosis, also called tinea unguium is a fungal infection that affects either the fingernails or toenails. Fungal infections normally develop over time, so any immediate difference in the way your nail looks or feels may be too subtle to notice at first.

There are many different causes of fungal nail infections. Each cause has a treatment of its own. Although some of the causes of a fungal nail infection are preventable, some risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing an infection. You’re more likely to develop an infection if you:

• Have diabetes
• Have poor circulation
• Are over the age of 65
• Wear artificial nails
• Swim in a public swimming pool
• Have a nail injury
• Have a skin injury around the nail
• Have moist fingers or toes for an extended period of time
• Have a weakened immune system
• Wear closed-toe shoes, such as tennis shoes or boots

Fungal infections are not the only possible cause of nail problems. Other conditions can look similar to fungal nail infections. Oftentimes the nail infection is either or both bacterial and/or fungal. To confirm your diagnosis and the correct form of treatment, a laboratory test of your nail clipping is necessary. Reliahealth makes it easy to submit your nail clippings and get accurate results 24-48 hours after receiving your sample. 

Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is typically caused by various types of fungi (most commonly dermatophytes) that infect the nails. Here are some common ways that people can get nail fungus:

• Contact with Infected Surfaces: Fungi that cause nail infections are often present in warm and moist environments, such as public swimming pools, locker rooms, and showers. Walking barefoot in these areas can expose your feet to the fungus.
• Contaminated Tools: Sharing nail clippers, files, or other grooming tools with someone who has a nail fungus can contribute to its spread. It’s important to disinfect or sterilize these tools regularly.
• Trauma or Injury: A nail that has been injured or traumatized is more susceptible to fungal infections. This can include stubbing your toe, dropping something heavy on your foot, or any other type of injury that affects the nail.
• Poor Foot Hygiene: Not keeping your feet clean and dry, especially in between the toes, can create an environment where fungi thrive. Wearing damp or sweaty shoes for extended periods can also contribute to fungal growth.
• Weakened Immune System: People with weakened immune systems are more prone to fungal infections, including nail fungus. Conditions such as diabetes, HIV, and certain medications can compromise the immune system.
• Age: As people age, their nails can become more brittle and prone to cracks and breaks, providing an entry point for fungi. Additionally, blood circulation may decrease with age, making it harder for the immune system to combat infections.
• Wearing Tight Shoes or Artificial Nails: Shoes that are too tight can cause pressure and moisture buildup around the toes, creating an environment conducive to fungal growth. Similarly, artificial nails can create a barrier that traps moisture and fosters fungal infections.

A fungal nail infection occurs due to the overgrowth of fungi on the toenail, fingernail, or under the toe of the nail known as the nail bed. Fungi flourish in warm and moist temperatures. The fungal nail infection is a serious problem and may cause damage to the nails. It is highly contagious and can spread easily to a healthy individual from an infected person. 

Fungal nail infections may cause nails to become discolored, thick, fragile, or cracked. The nail may also become separated from the nail bed. People who have fungal toenail infections often have a fungal skin infection on the foot, especially between the toes (commonly called athlete’s foot, ringworm on the foot, or tinea pedis). Below is a list of common symptoms: 

• Nail color turning into pale yellow
• Broken or brittle nails
• Formations of debris under the nail
• White spots on the nail
• Damaged nail surface
• Pain in the nails
• Loss of the nail
• Odor from infected nails
• Nail separation from the nail bed

To reduce the risk of developing nail fungus, it’s essential to practice good foot hygiene, keep your feet clean and dry, wear breathable shoes, avoid walking barefoot in public places, and refrain from sharing personal grooming tools. If you suspect a nail fungus infection, order the ReliaHealth test kit and submit your nail sample to our state of the art COLA Accredited and CLIA Certified lab partners. Obtain results 24-48 hours after the sample is received. Then simply share your results with your healthcare provider to obtain the right treatment.  

Bacteria
Clostridium novyi
Clostridium perfringens
Clostridium septicum
Corynebacterium sp
Cutibacterium acnes
Enterococcus faecalis (S)
Enterococcus faecalis (VRE)
Enterococcus faecium (S)
Enterococcus faecium (VRE)
Moraxella Catarrhalis
Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA)
Staphylococcus sp. Coagulase-Negative
Staphylococcus epidermidis (MRSE)
Staphylococcus epidermidis (MSSE)
Staphylococcus haemolyticus
Staphylococcus lugdunensis
Staphylococcus saprophyticus
Strep agalactiae
Strep pneumonia
Strep pyogenes
Streptococcus dysgalactiae
Acinetobacter baumannii
Bacteroides fragilis
Citrobacter freundii
Enterobacter aerogenes
Enterobacter Cloacae
Escherichia coli (ESBL)
Escherichia coli (KPC)
Escherichia coli
Kingella kingae
Klebsiella oxytoca
Klebsiella pneumoniae
Morganella morganii
Prevotella loescheii
Proteus mirabilis
Proteus vulgaris
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Serratia marcescens

Fungi
Acremonium strictum
Aspergillus fumigatus
Aspergillus niger
Aspergillus versicolor
Candida albicans
Candida glabrata
Candida krusei
Candida lusitaniae
Candida parapsilosis
Candida tropicalis
Epidermophyton floccosum
Fusarium solani
Microsporum audouinii
Microsporum canis
Neofusicoccum mangiferae
Scopulariopsis brevicaulis
Trichophyton interdigitale
Trichophyton rubrum

The 3-in-1 Nail Bacteria & Fungus Plus Antibiotic Resistance Panel Mail-In Test Kit identifies 11 antibiotic classes that the bacteria in your nail infection may be resistant to and provides recommended antibiotics to treat the infection.

Antibiotic Classes
AmpC
Carbapenems
ESBL
Fosfomycin
Macrolide
Methicillin
Quinolone & Flouroquinolone
Tetracycline
Sulfonamide
Vancomycin
VIM/IMP-7

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common infections that affect the bladder, the kidneys and the tubes connected to them. Anyone can get them, but they’re particularly common in women. Some women experience them regularly (called recurrent UTIs). UTIs can be painful and uncomfortable, but can be treated with antibiotics.

Bacteria are the most common cause of UTIs, although fungi can also infect the urinary tract. The most common causative agent for both uncomplicated and complicated UTIs is uropathogenic. Escherichia coli, which live in the bowel. Other common species include Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, Enterococcus faecalis, and Staphylococcus saprophyticus.

Symptoms vary greatly depending on the severity of your urinary tract infection (UTI). Both women and men can get a UTI; however, Women are at a greater risk of developing more severe forms of a UTI than men. UTIs don’t always cause symptoms, but here is a list of symptoms those infected often experience:

• A burning sensation when urinating
• A frequent urge to urinate
• Passing small amounts of urine
• Strong smelling urine
• Cloudy urine
• Discolored urine that can be red, bright pink, or dark.
• Women may experience pelvic pain.

UTIs are often overlooked or misdiagnosed. Getting tested is critical to pinpoint the cause of your condition.

Leaving a urinary tract infection untreated can spread the bacteria to other parts of your body and pose more dangerous health risks. An untreated UTI can travel to your kidneys. Kidney infection can cause permanent kidney damage or lead to sepsis, which is a life-threatening complication.

1. Low Bacterial Count: In some cases, the bacterial count in the urine may be too low to form visible colonies on the culture medium. This is particularly true in the early stages of infection or in cases of low-grade or chronic UTIs.
2. Presence of Fastidious Organisms: Some bacteria have specific growth requirements and may be challenging to culture using standard media. Fastidious organisms may not thrive in the typical culture conditions, leading to false-negative results.
3. Prior Antibiotic Use: If the patient has taken antibiotics before providing the urine sample, it may inhibit bacterial growth, making it difficult for the culture to detect the presence of bacteria. Antibiotics can suppress bacterial replication, affecting the ability to form colonies.
4. Sampling Technique: Improper sampling techniques, such as contamination from the genital area during collection, can introduce non-pathogenic bacteria into the sample, potentially overshadowing the presence of true pathogens.
5. Intermittent Shedding of Bacteria:Some infections may involve intermittent shedding of bacteria, meaning that bacteria are not consistently present in the urine. This intermittent shedding can result in negative culture results during periods when the bacteria are not actively being excreted.
6. Viral or Fungal Infections: Standard urine culture tests primarily target bacteria, and they may not detect viral or fungal infections. In some cases, UTIs can be caused by viruses or fungi, and these may require more specific tests for detection such as the ReliaHealth UTI Mail-In Test.
7. Biofilm Formation:Some bacteria can form biofilms, which are communities of microorganisms embedded in a protective matrix. Biofilms can make it challenging for standard culture methods to isolate and identify the bacteria, as they may not be readily released into the urine.
8. Atypical Pathogens: Not all UTIs are caused by typical bacteria that are easily cultured. Uncommon or atypical pathogens may require specialized culture conditions or alternative diagnostic methods for detection.

The ReliaHealth UTI 2 in 1 Mail-In Test Kit addresses these common causes of misdiagnosis by utilizing RT-PCR (Real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction) testing which uses DNA amplification technology to detect the smallest trace of a bacteria or fungal gene.

We test for 25 types of bacteria that can be the cause of a UTI.

Bacteria
Acinetobacter baumannii
Aerococcus urinae
Cirtrobacter freundii
Citrobacter koseri
Corynebacterium riegelii
Corynebacterium urealyticum
Enterobacter aerogenes
Enterobacter clocae
Enterobacter faecalis
Enterobacter faecium
Enterococcus faecium
Escherichia coli
Klebsiella oxytoca
Klebsiella pneumoniae
Morganella morganii
Mycoplasma genitalium
Proteus mirabilis
Proteus vulgaris
Providencia stuartii
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Serratia marcescens
Staphylococcus aureus
Staphylococcus saprophyticus
Streptococcus agalactiae (group B)
Ureaplasma urealyticum

The ReliaHealth Mail-In Test looks at 5 types of Candida.

Fungus
Candida dubliniensis
Candida albicans
Candida glabrata
Candida parapsilosis
Candida tropicalis

The ReliaHealth 2-in-1 UTI Mail-In Test Kit includes an antibiotic resistance panel that looks at 18 resistance genes in the following classes:

Methicillin
Vancomycin
Carbapenemase
MRSA
Sulphonamide
Beta-lactamase C
Trimethoprim
Quinolones
Beta-lactamase A