Galactomannan Aspergillus Antigen Bronchoalveolar Lavage Test
Understanding Aspergillus Detection in Respiratory Health
The Galactomannan Aspergillus Antigen Bronchoalveolar Lavage Test represents a breakthrough in fungal infection diagnostics, specifically designed to detect invasive aspergillosis in patients with compromised immune systems. This sophisticated laboratory analysis provides healthcare providers with critical information for early intervention and targeted treatment strategies.
What Does This Test Measure?
This advanced diagnostic test specifically measures galactomannan antigen levels in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid samples. Galactomannan is a key component of the Aspergillus fungal cell wall that circulates in bodily fluids during active infection. The test utilizes enzyme immunoassay technology to detect even minute quantities of this biomarker, offering exceptional sensitivity and specificity for invasive pulmonary aspergillosis diagnosis.
Who Should Consider This Test?
This specialized diagnostic is particularly crucial for patients experiencing:
- Persistent respiratory symptoms despite antibiotic treatment
- Unexplained fevers in immunocompromised individuals
- Chest pain or breathing difficulties with abnormal imaging findings
- Recent organ transplantation or chemotherapy treatment
- Hematological malignancies requiring intensive immunosuppression
- Suspected fungal pneumonia with negative bacterial cultures
Clinical Indications and Risk Factors
Patients with specific risk factors should strongly consider this test, including those with neutropenia, prolonged corticosteroid use, advanced HIV/AIDS, or congenital immunodeficiency disorders. Early detection is particularly vital for stem cell transplant recipients and individuals undergoing aggressive cancer treatments where timely antifungal therapy can be life-saving.
Benefits of Galactomannan Testing
Choosing this advanced diagnostic approach offers multiple advantages:
- Early Detection: Identifies Aspergillus infection before conventional methods
- High Accuracy: Superior sensitivity compared to traditional culture methods
- Rapid Results: Same-day reporting when samples collected by 9 am
- Treatment Guidance: Enables targeted antifungal therapy selection
- Prognostic Value: Helps monitor treatment response and disease progression
- Cost-Effective: Prevents expensive complications through early intervention
Understanding Your Test Results
Test results are typically reported as an index value, with clinical interpretation provided by your healthcare provider:
- Negative Result: Indicates no detectable galactomannan antigen, suggesting low probability of invasive aspergillosis
- Positive Result: Suggests possible Aspergillus infection, requiring clinical correlation
- Borderline Result: May warrant repeat testing or additional diagnostic evaluation
Your physician will interpret results in context with your clinical presentation, imaging findings, and other laboratory parameters to determine appropriate management strategies.
Test Information and Pricing
| Test Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Test Name | Galactomannan Aspergillus Antigen Bronchoalveolar Lavage Test |
| Regular Price | $250 USD |
| Discount Price | $176 USD |
| Sample Type | 2 mL (1 mL min.) BAL fluid in sterile screw-capped container |
| Turnaround Time | Same day when sample collected Tue/Thu/Sat by 9 am |
| Testing Method | Enzyme Immunoassay |
| Specialty | Physician, Chest Physician |
Nationwide Testing Availability
GGC DNA maintains comprehensive testing facilities across the United States, with specialized collection centers in major metropolitan areas including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, Phoenix, and Philadelphia. Our network ensures convenient access to advanced fungal diagnostics regardless of your location.
Take Control of Your Respiratory Health
Early detection of invasive aspergillosis can significantly improve treatment outcomes and prevent serious complications. Don’t wait until symptoms become severe – proactive testing provides the information needed for timely medical intervention.
Ready to schedule your Galactomannan Aspergillus Antigen BAL Test? Contact our dedicated healthcare team today at +1(267) 388-9828 or book your appointment online. Our experienced staff will guide you through the testing process and ensure you receive the highest quality diagnostic care.
Take the first step toward accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Call now to schedule your test and benefit from our same-day results service available at our nationwide testing centers.
