Test Overview
The assay is based upon a modification of the Limulus Amebocyte Lysate (LAL) pathway. The key assay reagent is modified to eliminate Factor C, and is therefore specific for (1,3)-beta-D-glucan.
The Fungitell beta-D Glucan assay is indicated for the presumptive diagnosis of invasive fungal disease through detection of elevated levels of (1,3)-beta-D glucan in serum. The Fungitell assay detects (1,3)-beta-Dglucan from the following pathogens: Candida spp., Acremonium, Aspergillus spp., Coccidioides immitis, Fusarium spp., Histoplasma capsulatum, Trichosporon spp., Sporothrix schenckii, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and Pneumocystis jiroveci.
Negative: Less than 60 pg/mL. Indeterminate: 60 - 79 pg/mL. Positive: Greater than or equal to 80 pg/mL.
* Reference ranges may change over time. Please refer to the original patient report when evaluating results.
The Fungitell assay does not detect certain fungal species such as the genus Cryptococcus, which produces very low levels of (1,3)-beta-D glucan, nor the Zygomycetes, such as Absidia, Mucor, and Rhizopus, which are not known to produce (1,3)-beta-D glucan. Studies indicate Blastomyces dermatitidis is usually not detected due to little (1,3)-beta-D glucan produced in the yeast phase.
Test Details
2 - 4 days
- 1,3 beta D glucan
- Fungitell beta-D Glucan assay
- Limulus Amebocyte Lysate (LAL) Pathway
Specimen Requirements
Collect specimen in an SST tube and centrifuge within 2 hours of collection to pellet cells below the gel. Store and send intact SST tube at room temperature (preferred) or refrigerated. Freezing serum in SST tubes can lead to hemolysis and is not recommended. Aliquoting of the specimen is not recommended due to the potential for environmental contamination of the sample that can lead to false positive results. Specimens may be stored at room temperature for up to 30 days.
Do not open or aliquot.
Additional Information
If the test result is greater than 500 pg/mL, a titer (VRFNG) will be performed at an additional charge. By ordering this test the clinician acknowledges that additional reflex testing will be performed and billed at a separate additional charge if indicated. Test sent to Viracor Eurofins.