Coccidioides Antibodies by Complement Fixation and Immunodiffusion, Serum
Also known as: COCC.CFIDS
Use
This test aids in the diagnosis of coccidioidomycosis, a fungal infection caused by Coccidioides species. It includes testing by complement fixation and immunodiffusion, which are used to detect antibodies in the serum. A titer of 1:2 or greater suggests past or current infection, but more than 30 percent of chronic cases may have negative results. Complement fixation serology can also be used to monitor therapy, and the presence of antibodies in cerebrospinal fluid is considered diagnostic for coccidioidal meningitis.
Special Instructions
Parallel testing is preferred. Convalescent specimens must be received within 30 days from receipt of the acute specimens. Ensure specimens are marked as 'acute' or 'convalescent'.
Limitations
Negative results do not exclude the possibility of a Coccidioides infection, especially in cases with chronic residual pulmonary disease. Titers less than 1:32 may indicate past infection or self-limited disease. Additionally, 10 percent of patients with coccidioidal meningitis may not have antibodies in CSF. Unrelated antibodies detected with immunodiffusion may suggest other systemic fungal infections.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (Qualitative Immunodiffusion)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 33380-7
- 5095-5
- 33380-7
- 5095-5
Result Turnaround Time
2-6 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
2 mL
Minimum Volume
0.8 mL
Container
ARUP standard transport tube
Collection Instructions
Separate serum from cells ASAP or within 2 hours of collection. Transfer to the transport tube.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated.
Causes for Rejection
Other body fluids. Contaminated, hemolyzed, icteric, or lipemic specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 48 hours |
| Refrigerated | 2 weeks |
| Frozen | 1 year (avoid repeated freeze/thaw cycles) |