Coccidioides Serology Blood Test Panel
The coccidioides serology blood test panel (also called valley fever) looks for antibodies to coccidioides which is the fungus that causes coccidioidomycosis.
Methodology:
Complement Fixation (CF) • Immunodiffusion (ID)
Preparation:
No special preparation required.
Test Results:
2-3 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday or lab delays.
Walk-In Lab is prohibited from selling Quest tests to residents in the following states:AZ, NY, NJ, RI
Coccidioides Serology Blood Test Panel
Valley fever (also called coccidioidomycosis) is an infection caused by the coccidioides fungus. This fungus lives in soil and can travel through dust. Valley fever can be found primarily in the southwestern United States, eastern Washington state, and parts of Mexico and Central and South America.
The complement-fixation test detects IgG antibodies. Precipitating antibodies (IgM and IgG) are detected by immunodiffusion.
Complement Fixation:
Titers of 1:2 or higher may indicate active disease, and the titers may persist for months after infection has resolved. Increasing complement fixation (CF) titers in serial specimens are considered an active disease.
Immunodiffusion:
The presence of IgM antibodies may be detectable within 2 weeks after the start of symptoms, and antibodies may be detected longer than 6 months after infection.
Valley fever often has mild symptoms, so many people never realize they have it. In most cases, it goes away without treatment. However, people with HIV, certain types of cancer, or weakened immune systems can get very sick from this infection.
What are the symptoms of valley fever?
Symptoms of valley fever may include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Chest pain when taking a deep breath
- Fatigue
- Aching joints
- Rash
These symptoms can be mild or last for a few weeks or months.
Who should get tested?
This test may be helpful if you live in or have visited an area where valley fever occurs and you:
- Have spoken with your healthcare provider and have decided screening is right for you
- Have signs or symptoms of valley fever, and you and your healthcare provider have discussed screening
What will my test results tell me?
A positive test result may show that you have an immune response to valley fever because of a current or past infection. Some people with a positive test result may have symptoms of valley fever infection, but many people do not have any symptoms from the infection. Be sure to share your results with your healthcare provider so they can help you determine the next steps in your care.
Are there any risks involved in getting this test?
There is no risk involved in getting this test. You will be asked to give a blood sample at the lab.
