Aspergillosis laboratory findings

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Haytham Allaham, M.D. [2]; Yazan Daaboul, M.D.; Serge Korjian M.D.

PCR is the method of choice for the diagnosis of aspergillosis. A single negative PCR result is sufficient to rule out aspergillosis, whereas two positive test results are required to confirm the diagnosis. Laboratory findings consistent with the diagnosis of aspergillosis include positive aspergillus antibody test, positive galactomannan test, elevated concentration of IgE immunoglobulin, and positive culture from sputum or bronchoalveolar lavage.^[1][2][3]

• PCR is the method of choice for the diagnosis of Aspergillosis.
• A single negative PCR result is sufficient to rule out a diagnosis of a probable invasive aspergillosis.^[4]
• While, two positive test results are required to confirm a diagnosis of aspergillosis.

• Eosinophilia

• Elevated concentration of serum immunoglobulin E (IgE)

• Positive galactomannan assay
• Positive beta-D-glucan assay

• Positive culture and staining from sputum or from bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL)
• Culture can be performed on a variety of sterile specimens. Aspergillus spp. typically appear as rapidly growing molds that are visible 1-3 days following incubation.
• Patients with invasive aspergillosis may have negative cultures.