Histoplasma capsulatum/Blastomyces species, Molecular Detection, PCR, Varies
Use
Rapid detection of Histoplasma capsulatum and Blastomyces dermatitidis DNA is crucial for aiding in the rapid diagnosis of histoplasmosis and blastomycosis. These infections can cause a variety of clinical manifestations ranging from self-limited, mild pulmonary illness to potentially life-threatening, disseminated disease. This PCR assay provides specific detection and differentiation of B dermatitidis/gilchristii and H capsulatum directly from clinical specimens, offering a faster alternative to traditional culture methods which can take days to weeks.
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
The PCR assay detects nucleic acid and does not distinguish between viable organisms and those persisting from previous disease. Test results should be correlated with patient symptoms. Fungal culture has increased sensitivity over PCR and should be performed when PCR is negative. Sensitivity from bronchoalveolar lavage fluid is low, and negative results do not rule out infection. The assay does not detect presence of viable organisms, only the presence of DNA.
New York Approved
Methodology
PCR-based (Real-Time PCR)
Biomarkers
Blastomyces dermatitidis/gilchristii
MicroorganismHistoplasma capsulatum
Microorganism
LOINC Codes
- 81653-8 - B derm drk1 + H caps gapdh Spec NAA+pr
- 31208-2 - Specimen source
- 81653-8 - B derm drk1 + H caps gapdh Spec NAA+pr
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Body Fluid
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Sterile container
Causes for Rejection
Specimen in anaerobe vial or viral transport medium; feces; swab; tissue in formalin fluid; urine
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 7 days |
| Refrigerated | 7 days |
| Frozen | 7 days |