ABPA Panel Test
The ABPA panel test measures the levels of Aspergillus fumigatus IgE, Aspergillus fumigatus IgG, and Total IgE. Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA) is an allergic response to Aspergillus fumigatus fungus, which is widespread in nature and can develop on any organic material. ABPA can particularly affect individuals with acute asthma or cystic fibrosis. While most strains of the fungus are harmless, a few can lead to severe reactions. Those with weakened immune systems or underlying lung conditions are vulnerable to ABPA. Thus, getting this test done is recommended to detect hypersensitivity to Aspergillus fumigatus and to assess the effectiveness of ABPA treatment.
Symptoms of ABPA
A person suffering from ABPA will exhibit some or all of these symptoms:
Frequent coughing
Coughing up brown mucus plugs
Coughing blood (hemoptysis)
Wheezing
Shortness of breath
Chest pain or tightness
Recurrent fever
Fatigue
Test included under ABPA Panel
Allergy, Aspergillus Fumigatus:
-
This test is used to identify and measure the concentration of Aspergillus Fumigatus IgE antibodies in the patient's blood sample.
Aspergillosis IgG Antibodies:
-
This test is used to identify and measure the concentration of Aspergillus Fumigatus IgG antibodies in the patient's blood sample.
Immunoglobulin IgE (Total IgE):
-
This test is used to measure the levels of immunoglobulin E (IgE) in the patient's blood sample. IgE is an antibody that is naturally produced by the body. Higher levels of IgE in the blood may suggest the presence of allergens.
Who should get tested?
ABPA normally affects people who have one of the following conditions:
Asthma
Cystic fibrosis
Tuberculosis
Weakened immune system due to organ or stem cell transplant
Diabetes
Preparation for the test
>No special preparation is required for the ABPA panel test.
Interpretation of results
The relative amount of antibody that is present in the body in response to Aspergillus fumigatus allergy is indicated in the following table:
Aspergillus fumigatus IgE
Results are reported in kilounit per liter( kU/L)
|
Class |
IgE (kU/L) |
Comment |
|
0 |
<0.10 |
Negative |
|
0/1 |
0.10-0.34 |
Equivocal/Borderline |
|
1 |
0.35-0.69 |
Low Positive |
|
2 |
0.70-3.49 |
Moderate Positive |
|
3 |
3.50-17.49 |
High Positive |
|
4 |
17.50-49.99 |
Very High Positive |
|
5 |
50.00-99.99 |
Very High Positive |
|
6 |
>99.99 |
Very High |
Aspergillus fumigatus IgG
The units are micrograms/mL (mcg/mL) of specific IgG. The reference value can differ depending on the specific allergen.
|
Antibody |
Reference Range |
|
Aspergillus fumigatus IgG |
2.0-200 mcg/mL |
Total IgE
Results are reported in kilounit per liter (kU/L)
|
Age |
Reference Range (kU/L) |
|
1 – 11 months |
0 – 12 |
|
1 year |
0 – 15 |
|
2 years |
1 – 29 |
|
3 years |
4 – 35 |
|
4 years |
2 – 33 |
|
5 years |
8 – 56 |
|
6 years |
3 – 95 |
|
7 years |
2 – 88 |
|
8 years |
5 – 71 |
|
9 years |
3 – 88 |
|
10 years |
7 – 110 |
|
11 – 14 years |
7 – 111 |
|
15 – 19 years |
6 – 96 |
|
20 – 30 years |
4 – 59 |
|
31 – 50 years |
5 – 79 |
|
51 – 80 years |
3 – 48 |
Deviation from normal levels indicates the following:
- Elevated levels of Total IgE, Aspergillus fumigatus IgE, and Aspergillus fumigatus IgG might indicate a hypersensitivity to the Aspergillus fumigatus species.
FAQs
How is the sample collected for the ABPA panel test?
A healthcare provider will draw a small blood sample from a vein in your arm using a needle. The blood will be collected in a test tube or vial and sent to the lab for analysis.
What are the risks associated with the ABPA panel test?
There are no known risks associated with this test. During a blood test, one may experience minor pain or bruising where the needle was inserted, but most symptoms will subside quickly.
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for the ABPA panel test result?
The ABPA panel test result is usually available within 2 days after the sample collection. This duration may vary depending on the diagnostic clinic.
What factors can influence the levels of Aspergillus fumigatus antibodies in the blood?
The levels of antibodies can be affected by a range of factors, including recent exposure to the fungus, the usage of immunosuppressive medications, and the presence of respiratory ailments or immune system disorders.
Are there any complications linked to an allergy to Aspergillus fumigatus?
Potential complications include chronic sinusitis, exacerbation of asthma, ABPA, aspergilloma, or in critical situations, invasive aspergillosis.
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