Fungal Antibodies Blood Test, Quantitative Double Immunodiffusion

Fungal Antibodies, Quantitative

Fungal infections occur when an invading fungus from the environment takes over an area of the body and the immune system is unable to fight it. Most fungi are harmless to humans, but some are capable of causing diseases under specific conditions. Fungi can cause infections of the skin, affect your organs, or cause body-wide systemic infections.

A fungal antibody test is used to detect and identify fungi to assist your healthcare provider in diagnosing infections and determining the appropriate treatment.

What are the symptoms of fungal infections?

Fungal infections can range from infections of the skin and superficial tissues to serious infections of deeper tissues and body organs. Symptoms of superficial infections may include itchy, red, scaly areas of the skin, white patches in the mouth, thick and brittle nails, and vaginal itching and discharge. Systemic fungal infections may include symptoms of lung infections (coughing, fever, headaches), blood infections (chills, fever, elevated heart rate), and central nervous system infections (persistent headache, sensitivity to light, neck stiffness).

Who should get tested?

This test may be helpful if:

• Your healthcare provider suspects your signs and symptoms are related to a fungal infection.
• Your healthcare provider is evaluating treatment effectiveness. 

What will my test results tell me?

Fungal antibody testing can help to diagnose current or recent infections and identify the specific fungus. Fungal antibody testing may also be used to monitor the effectiveness of therapies used to treat fungal infections. 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.