(1,3)-Beta-D-Glucan (Fungitell)

Casandra

Casandra Test Code AR88649Version 1 (DRAFT)

Performing Lab

Lab ARUP LaboratoriesLab Test ID 2002434CPT Code 87449

(1,3)-Beta-D-Glucan (Fungitell)

Also known as: BDGLUCAN

Clinical Use

Order Test

Use

The Fungitell test aids in the presumptive diagnosis of invasive or disseminated fungal infections, particularly those caused by P. jirovecii, Aspergillus, or Candida. It should be utilized in conjunction with other diagnostic procedures due to limitations in its detection capabilities. The test does not detect certain fungi such as Cryptococcus, which produce very low levels of (1,3)-beta-D-glucan, and will not detect zygomycetes like Absidia, Mucor, and Rhizopus, which do not produce (1,3)-beta-D-glucan.

Special Instructions

Reference ranges for pediatric patients (under 18 years old) have not been established, and assay ranges were validated in adult subjects. Ensure specimen separation from cells as soon as possible or within 2 hours of collection. Transfer serum to an ARUP Sterile Transport Tube for transport.

Limitations

The test may not detect the yeast phase of Blastomyces dermatitidis due to low production of (1,3)-beta-D-glucan. Additionally, it does not detect Cryptococcus or zygomycetes such as Absidia, Mucor, and Rhizopus, due to their lack of (1,3)-beta-D-glucan production. It is crucial to use this test in combination with other diagnostic methods to confirm fungal infection.

Test Details

FDA Approved