Fungal Antibodies with Reflex to Blastomyces dermatitidis Antibodies by Immunodiffusion, CSF

Casandra

Casandra Test Code AR81464Version 1 (DRAFT)

Performing Lab

Lab ARUP LaboratoriesLab Test ID 3000230CPT Codes 86606, 86612, 86635, 86698

Fungal Antibodies with Reflex to Blastomyces dermatitidis Antibodies by Immunodiffusion, CSF

Also known as: FUNG R CSF

Clinical Use

Order Test

Use

This test is designed to detect antibodies to Aspergillus, Coccidioides, and Histoplasma by complement fixation and Blastomyces by immunoassay in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). It aids in the evaluation of fungal infection in the central nervous system but is not recommended as a primary diagnostic tool for such infections. The presence of antibodies is suggestive of infection or exposure, but cross-reactions may occur. If Blastomyces antibodies are equivocal or positive by immunoassay, further confirmation is done with immunodiffusion.

Special Instructions

This test requires submission of a Non-Permitted Laboratory Request Form (NPL) to the New York Department of Health (NYDOH) before collecting a specimen, as it is not New York state-approved.

Limitations

These tests are not cleared or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. Antibody detection can vary based on disease state and prior treatments. Titers in complement fixation may not correlate with active infection in all cases due to the potential for cross-reactions, especially with dimorphic fungi in the Aspergillus genus. Negative results do not necessarily rule out infection, especially in cases of chronic fungal disease or immunocompromised patients.

Test Details