Blood Test

Blood is drawn from a vein (venipuncture), usually from the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. A needle is inserted into the vein, and the blood is collected in an air-tight vial or a syringe. Preparation may vary depending on the specific test.

Legionnaires' Disease Organism, Legionella

Legionnaires disease was first described in 1976 after and outbreak of fatal pneumonia at a Legionnaires convention. The newly described organism which caused the disease was named Legionella pneumophila, shown in this picture. (Courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control.)

Candida, Flourescent Stain

This microscopic film shows a fluorescent stain of Candida. Candida is a yeast (fungus) that causes mild disease, but in immunocompromised individuals it may cause life-threatening illness. (Courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control.)

Candidiasis, Cutaneous - Around the Mouth

This child has a large rash caused by Candidiasis, affecting the skin around the mouth. There are also other lesions that aren't connected to the large lesion, called "satellite lesions".

Nail Infection, Candidal

A paronychia is an infection around the nail. Many organisms can cause a paronychia. This particular case is caused by the yeast-like organism Candida. Note the inflammation (red, swollen area) at the base of the nail and the changes that are apparent in the nail itself.