Galactomannan, Aspergillus Antigen test

Galactomannan is a component of the cell wall of the mold Aspergillus and is released during growth. Detection of galactomannan in blood is used to diagnose invasive aspergillosis infections in humans. This is performed with monoclonal antibodies in a double-sandwich ELISA; this assay from Bio-Rad Laboratories was approved by the FDA in 2003 and is of moderate accuracy. The assay is most useful in patients who have had hematopoietic cell transplants (stem cell transplants). False positive Aspergillus Galactomannan test have been found in patients on intravenous treatment with some antibiotics or fluids containing gluconate or citric acid such as some transfusion platelets, parenteral nutrition or PlasmaLyte.

No special preparation is needed for Milk allergy. Inform your doctor if you are on any medications or have any underlying medical conditions or allergies before undergoing Milk allergy. It’s a simple blood test so, it’s better not to eat past hour to get best results. Your doctor depending on your condition will give specific instructions.

An aid in the diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis and assessing response to therapy. Prevention of aspergillosis involves a reduction of mold exposure via environmental infection-control. Antifungal prophylaxis can be given to high-risk patients. Posaconazole is often given as prophylaxis in severely immunocompromised patients.

Process of obtaining blood sample in adults: A band is wrapped around the arm, 3-4 inches above the collection site (superficial vein that lies within the elbow pit) The needle cap is removed and is held in line with the vein, pulling the skin tight The required amount of blood sample is collected by pulling the plunger of the syringe out slowly The wrap band is removed, gauze is placed on the collection site, and the needle is removed The blood is immediately transferred into the blood container, which has the appropriate preservative/clot activator/anti-coagulant

The syringe and the needle are disposed into the appropriate “sharp container” for safe and hygienic disposal. Avoid exposure of specimen to atmosphere. Send specimen in original tube. Do not aliquot.