Aspergillosis (Aspergillus) IgG antibodies
Detects IgG antibodies to Aspergillus — fungi whose spores are constantly present in the air (dust, soil, dampness, mold). In most healthy persons Aspergillus does not cause disease, but under certain conditions may lead to respiratory tract and lung damage.
Used for:
- chronic pulmonary aspergillosis diagnosis;
- fungal respiratory tract inflammation;
- post-lung-disease complications.
IgG shows:
- organism's immune response to Aspergillus;
- probability of chronic pulmonary fungal infection;
- helps distinguish chronic aspergillosis from other causes of prolonged cough.
Note:
- IgG does not always indicate disease — may be positive with simple fungal contact;
- diagnosis is established only comprehensively: symptoms + CT/X-ray + additional tests.
Recommended for:
- chronic lung disease patients (asthma, COPD, bronchiectasis);
- immunocompromised patients;
- prolonged cough with CT changes;
- recurrent pneumonia/bronchitis.
Aspergillosis is not person-to-person transmitted. Disease occurs when spores are inhaled from the environment:
- damp/moldy rooms;
- construction/household dust;
- basements, warehouses, humid rooms.
Biomaterial: Venous blood
- Draw blood fasting (8-12 hours without food)
- Water is permitted
- Exclude fatty food and alcohol 24 hours before
- No smoking 30 minutes before
Medications:
- If taking antiparasitic drugs, hormonal drugs, or immunosuppressants — inform physician;
- dose adjustment is usually not required unless directed by physician
- Prolonged cough (especially more than 3-4 weeks);
- sputum, dyspnea;
- periodic low-grade temperature 37-37.5°C;
- frequent bronchitis/pneumonia;
- worsening after lung diseases;
- suspected fungal involvement on CT/X-ray;
- reduced immunity;
- asthma, COPD, bronchiectasis (by physician prescription).
Note: Positive IgG may indicate both chronic process and contact. Diagnosis is confirmed comprehensively.
Negative IgG — antibodies not detected (chronic or past aspergillosis probability is low).
Positive IgG — organism contacted Aspergillus; may be: chronic aspergillosis, carriage/contact without disease.
At positive result: pulmonologist consultation. At confirmed fungal infection: infectious disease specialist may be needed.
Self-treatment with antifungal drugs is dangerous.
