Fungal Antibody Tests

Fungal Antibody Tests- Why am I having this test?

Fungal antibody tests are used to determine if you have, or have had, an infection caused by a fungus. Fungal infections can affect the skin, bones, tissues, organs, and blood.

The most serious fungal infections usually begin as an infection in the lungs and may spread to other parts of the body. If your body’s disease-fighting system (immune system) is weakened, you may be at higher risk for serious fungal infections.

What is being tested?

This test checks for antibodies in your blood or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Antibodies are proteins made by your immune system to fight germs and infection. Some antibodies are created right when an infection begins. Others are created later on, or even after the infection has gone away.

What kind of sample is taken?

This test may require:

  • A blood sample. This is usually collected by inserting a needle into a blood vessel.
  • A sample of CSF. This is usually collected from a lumbar puncture, also known as a spinal tap. This procedure involves inserting a long, thin needle through the skin and between the bones (vertebrae) in the lower back until the needle reaches the CSF space.

How are the results reported?

Your test results will be reported as either positive or negative for fungal antibodies.

A false-positive result can occur. A false positive is incorrect because it means that a condition is present when it is not.

A false-negative result can occur. A false negative is incorrect because it means that a condition is not present when it is.

What do the results mean?

A negative test result means that no fungal antibodies are detectable. This means that it is unlikely that you have, or recently had, a fungal infection. However, because these tests may sometimes be negative even when an infection is present, they are not always reliable.

A positive test result means that you have likely had, or currently have, a fungal infection. If your test is positive, further tests may be done to determine the exact type of antibodies you have, as well as the exact type of fungal infection.

Talk with your health care provider about what your results mean.

Questions to ask your health care provider

Ask your health care provider, or the department that is doing the test:

  • When will my results be ready?
  • How will I get my results?
  • What are my treatment options?
  • What other tests do I need?
  • What are my next steps?

Summary

  • Fungal antibody tests are used to determine if you have, or have had, an infection caused by a fungus.
  • This test checks for antibodies in your blood or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) that are produced in response to a fungus.
  • A negative test result means that no fungal antibodies are detected. This means that it is unlikely that you have, or recently had, a fungal infection.
  • A positive test result means that you have likely had, or currently have, a fungal infection. Additional tests may be done.
  • Talk with your health care provider about what your results may mean.
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