Name of the Procedure:

Antibody; Blastomyces (Blastomyces Antibody Test)

Summary

The Blastomyces Antibody Test checks for antibodies in the blood that indicate a fungal infection caused by Blastomyces dermatitidis.

Purpose

The test is used to diagnose an infection by Blastomyces, a fungus that causes blastomycosis. The goal is to detect the infection early so that appropriate treatment can be administered to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

Indications

• Persistent cough, fever, and chills
• Chest pain and shortness of breath
• Skin lesions and sores
• Unexplained weight loss and fatigue
• Exposure to areas known for Blastomyces prevalence, such as riverbanks, forests, and soils in certain regions.

Preparation

• No specific fasting required.
• Inform your physician of any medications or supplements you are taking.
• It may be necessary to provide a detailed medical history and undergo a physical examination.

Procedure Description

1. A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm, typically using a sterile needle and a collection tube.
2. The sample will be sent to a laboratory where it will be analyzed for the presence of antibodies against Blastomyces.
3. Test results are compared against reference values to determine if you have an active or past infection.

Duration

• The blood draw takes about 5-10 minutes.
• Lab analysis can take a few days to a week.

Setting

• The blood sample is typically collected in an outpatient clinic, diagnostic laboratory, or hospital setting.

Personnel

• The procedure is performed by a phlebotomist or a nurse.
• A lab technician analyzes the blood sample.
• A physician reviews and interprets the test results.

Risks and Complications

• Minor risks include bruising or bleeding at the needle site.
• Rare complications can include infection or significant bleeding.
• Inaccurate results, though rare, can lead to misdiagnosis.

Benefits

• Early and accurate diagnosis of blastomycosis.
• Guides appropriate antifungal treatment, improving symptoms and reducing complications.
• Non-invasive and relatively quick procedure.

Recovery

• No significant recovery time is required after the blood draw.
• You may experience minor soreness or bruising at the puncture site.
• Follow-up appointments may be necessary to discuss test results and treatment plans.

Alternatives

• Direct fungal cultures from respiratory or skin samples, though these may take longer.
• Imaging studies (X-rays or CT scans) if lung involvement is suspected.
• Antigen testing for Blastomyces in urine or other body fluids, sometimes used in combination with antibody testing.

Patient Experience

• You might feel a brief sting or pinch during the blood draw.
• Minor discomfort or bruising at the injection site may occur.
• You'll receive care instructions for the needle site and information about when to expect your results.
• Pain management is typically unnecessary, as the procedure is minimally invasive.