Test Directory

Diagnosis of histoplasmosis based upon detection of antigen.

Antigen detection may be useful in acute disease, especially in individuals also infected with HIV, who frequently have the disseminated form of histoplasmosis without detectable antibodies to the fungus. In chronic disease, antigen may not be detected due to the low fungal burden. The highest sensitivity for rapidly and accurately diagnosing histoplasmosis in patients with acute pulmonary or disseminated infection can be obtained by testing both urine and serum.

Specimen Type: Urine (unpreserved)

Collection Container: Plastic Urine Container (Preservative Free)     

Desired Specimen Volume: 5 mL

1. Collect urine aseptically in a plastic urine container (preservative free). 

1. Transfer 5 mL of urine into a clear aliquot tube(s) (screw cap).

Transport to the laboratory refrigerated. 

• Specimen not refrigerated or frozen
• Insufficient specimen volume
• Inappropriate specimen source
• Inappropriate specimen collection device (ie, urine collected/submitted in a maintenance fluid or a preservative such as boric acid)
• Specimen stability exceeded

See patient report.

A negative result does not preclude a diagnosis of histoplasmosis. This assay has been documented to cross-react with Blastomyces dermatitidis, Coccidioides immitis, Paracoccidioides brasiliensis and Penicillium marneffei. Positive tests should be confirmed in areas or patient groups where these organisms are endemic or a risk. The following substances may interfere with the assay results: foods that produce color in urine, vaginal cream, caffeine, ascorbic acid, itraconazole, amphotericin B, acetaminophen and acetylsalicylic acid.

• Histoplasma Galactomannan Antigen EIA
• Histoplasma Urinary Antigen