Quality assurance in the diagnosis of indoor fungi

In co-ordination with the Umweltbundesamt Berlin, the Landesgesundheitsamt Baden-Wurttemberg (LGA) initiated external quality assurance in the diagnosis of indoor fungi in autumn 2001. Four of six fungal strains commonly found indoors have to be fully identified (on the genus and species level). There are two distributions per year; the six distributions hitherto carried out resulted in correct identification by 46-89% of laboratories (40-71 participants, total 148). It is clear from the results that repeat participants were more successful. In addition to the pure cultures sent out we offered actual samples (two air samples, one wood material, one sample of house dust, hitherto); 43- 69% of participating laboratories also took part in this facultative investigation of actual samples and 29-62% were successful. Results that differed considerably revealed problems while treating and evaluating actual samples. Therefore, activities in this field should be enhanced. In conclusion, external quality assurance in the diagnosis of indoor fungi is a useful management aid in the maintenance and improvement of laboratory performance.