Test ID CHIST Histoplasma Antibody, Spinal Fluid
Specimen Required
Container/Tube: Sterile vial
Specimen Volume: 1 mL
Collection Instructions: Submit specimen from collection vial 2.
Forms
If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send Infectious Disease Serology Test Request (T916) with the specimen.
Useful For
Aiding in the diagnosis of Histoplasma meningitis using spinal fluid specimens
Method Name
Complement Fixation (CF)/Immunodiffusion
Reporting Name
Histoplasma Ab, CSFSpecimen Type
CSFSpecimen Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Specimen Stability Information
Specimen Type | Temperature | Time | |
---|---|---|---|
CSF | Refrigerated (preferred) | 14 days | |
Frozen | 14 days |
Clinical Information
Histoplasma capsulatum is a soil saprophyte that grows well in soil enriched with bird droppings. The usual disease is self-limited, asymptomatic, and affects the lungs. Chronic cavitary pulmonary disease, disseminated disease, and meningitis may occur and can be fatal, especially in young children and immunosuppressed patients.
Reference Values
MYCELIAL BY COMPLEMENT FIXATION (CF)
Negative (positives reported as titer)
YEAST BY CF
Negative (positives reported as titer)
ANTIBODY BY IMMUNODIFFUSION
Negative (positives reported as band present)
Cautions
Antibody levels may be low in spinal fluid in cases of Histoplasma meningitis.
Histoplasmin skin tests yield specific antibodies in titratable quantity and may cause difficulties in interpretation.
Cross-reacting antibodies with coccidioidomycosis or blastomycosis may cause false-positive results for Histoplasmosis.
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Friday
Report Available
3 to 7 daysPerforming Laboratory

Test Classification
This test has been cleared, approved, or is exempt by the US Food and Drug Administration and is used per manufacturer's instructions. Performance characteristics were verified by Mayo Clinic in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements.CPT Code Information
86698 x 3