Pneumocystis jiroveci i DFA
Also known as: PNEUMST
Use
The Pneumocystis jiroveci i DFA test is used for the rapid identification of P. jirovecii. This is significant in clinical settings where early detection of the organism can influence treatment decisions. The sensitivity of this test is dependent on the patient population and the type of specimen collected, with molecular testing generally preferred for more definitive results. This test is useful as part of a diagnostic approach for patients where infection with P. jirovecii is suspected, and it provides results with a quick turnaround time, which aids in timely management and control of potential outbreaks.
Special Instructions
Specimens should be transferred to a sterile container and placed in individually sealed bags for transport. It is important to collect respiratory specimens such as bronchial washing, bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), or induced sputum as tissues, specimens in formalin, slides, or swabs are not acceptable. Specimen source information is preferred to help with accurate interpretation of results.
Limitations
A negative stain result from the DFA test does not exclude the possibility of infection with P. jirovecii. The test may yield false-negative results due to sampling errors or a low number of organisms in the specimen. It does not detect the organism if present in tissues or other specimen types that are inappropriate for DFA testing.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (Direct Fluorescent Antibody (DFA))
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 700-5
- 31208-2
Result Turnaround Time
1-2 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Bronchoalveolar Lavage
Volume
5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Sterile container
Collection Instructions
Transfer 5 mL respiratory specimen to a sterile container. Place each specimen in an individually sealed bag.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated storage recommended.
Causes for Rejection
Tissues, specimens in formalin, slides or swabs.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 2 hours |
| Refrigerated | 1 week |
| Frozen | Unacceptable |
Other tests from different labs that may be relevant