Coccidioides Antibodies, IgM and IgG by Immunoassay, Serum

Casandra

Casandra Test Code AR90106Version 1 (DRAFT)

Performing Lab

Lab ARUP LaboratoriesLab Test ID 0050137CPT Code 86635

Coccidioides Antibodies, IgM and IgG by Immunoassay, Serum

Also known as: COCCI G/M

Clinical Use

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Use

This test is designed to screen for the presence of coccidioidal IgM and IgG antibodies in serum, aiding in the diagnosis of Valley Fever (Coccidioidomycosis). Coccidioidomycosis is an infectious disease caused by inhaling the spores of the fungus Coccidioides. IgM and IgG antibodies serve as biomarkers for detecting current or past infections. IgG antibody typically appears by the third week of infection and may persist for years, whereas IgM antibody usually appears by the second week and disappears by the fourth month. This test is not recommended as a standalone diagnostic tool and should be part of a comprehensive panel for accurate diagnosis.

Special Instructions

Parallel testing is preferred, and convalescent specimens must be received within 30 days from receipt of the acute specimens. Mark specimens as "acute" or "convalescent" and separate serum promptly from cells within 2 hours of collection.

Limitations

This test uses recombinant and native Coccidioides antigens, including CF and TP antigens. False negatives may occur if antibodies are present at levels below the detection limit, or if the infection has only recently been contracted, as antibody production may not be sufficient. False positives may also occur due to cross-reactivity with other fungal infections or due to technical errors in sample handling or processing. The test should not be the sole basis for diagnosis and must be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and other diagnostic procedures.

Test Details

New York Approved