1,3 BETA-D-GLUCAN TEST
About 1,3 BETA-D-GLUCAN test
Beta-D-Glucan (BDG) is a polysaccharide (carbohydrate) found in the cell wall of many fungi. This BDG can be detected in the serum during invasive fungal infections (IFI). 1,3 Beta-D-Glucan test is used for the detection of fungal infections, including aspergillosis and invasive candidiasis. Fungi are commonly found in our environment and are typically harmless. Nevertheless, certain strains of fungi, when they enter the body and proliferate rapidly, can lead to serious infections and potentially life-threatening complications.
To determine if an individual is having a fungal infection, it is advisable to undergo a 1,3 BETA-D-GLUCAN test
This test is also known as
Beta-D glucan, Fungitell, Glucan
Symptoms of fungal infections
Skin infections (itchy rashes or patches of raised, scaly
Oral infections (white patches on the tongue, pain while swallowing)
Vaginal infections (itching, burning, or irritation in the vaginal area)
Respiratory infections (coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath)
Systemic infections (fever, chills, muscle pains)
Why is 1,3 BETA-D-GLUCAN test done?
For early detection of fungal infections
To monitor immunocompromised patients who are at a higher risk of contracting fungal infections
To guide antifungal treatments
Test preparation
No special preparation is required for the 1,3 BETA-D-GLUCAN test
Interpretation of the Test Results
The units of measurement for the results are picograms per millilitre (pg/mL)
|
BETA-D-GLUCAN |
Interpretation |
|
Less than 60 pg/mL |
Negative |
|
60 - 79 pg/mL |
Indeterminate |
|
Greater than or equal to 80 pg/mL |
Positive |
· If the 1,3 beta-D-glucan levels are within the established normal range, it suggests the absence of significant fungal infections.
Elevated levels may indicate the presence of fungal infections, such as Candida, Aspergillus, or Pneumocystis jirovecii
FAQs
How is the sample collected for a BDG test?
A blood sample is collected from a vein in your arm using a small needle. Usually, this procedure does not take more than 5 minutes
What are the risks associated with a BDG test?
This test involves negligible risk. There might be slight soreness or tenderness around the site where the blood is drawn. Rarely, the site can become infected
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for the BDG test?
The results of a BDG test are typically available within 6 days from the time of sample collection, although it could take longer at times
What factors can influence the accuracy of the test results?
Factors like recent use of certain medications (e.g., antibiotics) and underlying medical conditions can influence BDG test results
Are there limitations to the 1,3 beta-D-glucan test?
BDG test may yield false positives or false negatives. False positives can be triggered by the presence of certain medications, while false negatives may happen during the early stages of infection
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