| Web: | mayocliniclabs.com |
|---|---|
| Email: | mcl@mayo.edu |
| Telephone: | 800-533-1710 |
| International: | +1 855-379-3115 |
| Values are valid only on day of printing | |
| Web: | mayocliniclabs.com |
|---|---|
| Email: | mcl@mayo.edu |
| Telephone: | 800-533-1710 |
| International: | +1 855-379-3115 |
| Values are valid only on day of printing | |
Present in moist and fecund soils, Histoplasma species and Blastomyces species are among the most prevalent fungal pathogens in the United States1 and are also present in locations around the world. When soil contaminated with these organisms is disturbed, fungal spores are released, which can cause respiratory infection when inhaled.
Mayo Clinic Laboratories offers direct (fungal culture, molecular, and antigen) testing or indirect (antibody) testing to diagnose histoplasmosisor blastomycosis.
Histoplasma/Blastomyces Test menu
Antigen testing can quickly detect a Histoplasma or Blastomyces infection and is an effective alternative to other direct detection techniques that are associated with longer turnaround time and/or lower sensitivity.
To reduce the time and cost associated with processing multiple lab tests, Mayo Clinic Laboratories has developed an innovative assay that detects antigens from both fungi. The similarity of these organisms’ antigens frequently leads to cross-reactivity on their respective assays, with Histoplasma antigens triggering positive results on Blastomyces testing and vice versa. Our combined antigen detection approach capitalizes on that similarity, indicating infection with one of these two pathogens and facilitating early initiation of antifungal therapy. A positive result by this assay indicates infection with Histoplasma or Blastomyces without differentiation between the two agents. For definitive identification, serology, fungal culture, or molecular testing should be performed.
Key testing
Advantages
Note: This evaluation does not differentiate between Histoplasma and Blastomyces species. Culture, molecular testing, or serologic assessment are recommended for genus-specific identification.
Highlights
Elitza Theel, Ph.D., explains how Mayo Clinic Laboratories' unique Histoplasma/Blastomyces test provides cost-effective evaluation for fungal infections that cause pulmonary illness. The assay reliably detects both Histoplasma and Blastomyces pathogens in a single test.
Key testing
Key testing
Key testing
Key testing