Test Detail

Blastomyces Antibody, Immunodiffusion

Panel Components
Test Description		Contact: Serology (319) 335-4291 Test Request Form: Serology/Immunology SHL OpenELIS Code: 599
Detection of Blastomyces-specific antibodies to determine recent/active infection

Reflex Test(s)
Samples with positive identification for Blastomyces specific antibodies will be forwarded to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for complement fixation testing. The test will be listed as "Miscellaneous, Miscellaneous".
Performed	Avg. Turnaround Time	Method
Coralville, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., M-F	5 - 7 business days	Immunodiffusion
Fee	CPT Code(s)
$25.74	86612
Specimen Requirements
Specimen Type:	Minimum 1 mL Serum
Patient Preparation:
Collection Instructions:	Allow blood samples to clot at room temperature prior to centrifugation. Aseptically transfer serum to a tightly closing sterile container for storage. Red Top Tube: centrifuge and transfer serum to a secondary tube Serum Separator Tube: collect 4 - 6 mL and centrifuge
Temperature and Stability:	Refrigerate (2-8 degrees C); stable for up to 72 hours. Freeze (-20 degrees C); stable for more than 72 hours.
Unacceptable Conditions:	Plasma, CSF. Grossly hemolyzed or lipemic samples as well as samples containing particulate matter or exhibiting obvious microbial contamination should not be tested.
Expected Results:
Negative, A band
Shipping:
Wrap specimen container in absorbent material and place inside a biohazard bag. Transport specimen with cold pack. Ship to the Coralville location.
Comments
A positive result may suggest active or recent infection. The test is positive in about 80% of cases. Cross-reactions occur, especially with histoplasmosis. A negative test does not exclude blastomycosis. This is the screening assay. Positive results are confirmed by complement fixation.
Alternate Names
Fungal serology; Blastomyces dermatitidis Antibodies, Precipitin