Blastomyces Antibody Immunodiffusion

• Test Information
• Specimen Requirements
• Shipping Information

• Test Code +

  322

  Clinical Significance +

  The Blastomyces Antibody Immunodiffusion test is used for the in vitro determination of precipitating antibodies to Blastomyces dermatitidis. It is also used as an aid in the diagnosis of Blastomycosis.

  Methodology +

  Fungal Immunodiffusion

  Limitations +

  The result is not intended to be used as the sole means for clinical diagnosis or patient management decisions.

  • Negative serologic tests may be observed among culturally demonstrable cases, which limits the predictive value of a negative test.
  • Negative serologic results obtained during the first month may warrant repeat testing.
  • Falsely negative results may be obtained when testing immunocompromised patients.
  • Test results cannot be used solely, to distinguish between active infection and prior exposure.

  Cross Reactivity/False Positive: Moderate to Low: Histoplasma, Coccidioides, and Aspergillus

  Turnaround Time +

  Testing is performed Tuesdays and Fridays.

  Results released: Positive: 24 hours; Negative: 72 hours

  Reference Range +

  Antibody not detected

  Interpretative Information +

  Negative: Antibody not detected
  Positive: Antibody detected

• Specimen Collection +

  Specimens:  Serum, CSF*, Plasma*
  *Uncommon specimen includes incomplete validation. A “rare specimen” note will appear on the final report.

  Container:
  Serum: Collect serum specimens in serum separator tube. Allow blood to clot for 30 minutes, then centrifuge. Send in serum separator tube or transfer tube.
  CSF, Plasma: Submit CSF and plasma in a leak-proof plastic tube.

  Volume: 0.25mL
  Stability: Room temperature = 28 days, Refrigerated = 6 months, Frozen = indefinite

  Specimen Rejection +

  Any specimen types other than serum.

• Transport Temperature +

  Refrigerated/Frozen

  Shipping +

  Ship overnight with cold pack