Fungal serology

Alternative Names/Synonyms	Detection of antibodies to some fungal species
Laboratory	Microbiology
Sub-section	Serology
Specimen Type	○ Whole blood ○ Serum

Other Information

○ Indicate travel history is Coccidioides serology is requested.
○ An acute and a convalescent may be required for laboratory diagnosis.

Specimen Requirements (Tube Type)

○ Whole blood/serum: serum separator tube (min volume 5mL)

Collection Requirements

Whole blood/serum:
○ Decontaminate skin with 70% alcohol followed by iodine or chlorhexidine, collect at least 5 mL of blood.

Sample Stability

Refer to section Sample Processing / Delivery

Referral Laboratory

PHOL

Routine Turnaround Time

○ Aspergillus: Up to 14 days
○ Histoplasma, Blastomyces, Coccidioides: Up to 10 days

Laboratory Contact Information

416-586-4800 extension 4502

Approval Required

Sample Processing / Delivery

○ Label specimen container. Place specimens in biohazard bag and seal..

○ Specimens should be stored at room temperature (20-25˚C) after collection and submitted to the UHN/SH Microbiology Laboratory ASAP

○ The specimen will be referred to the Public Health Ontario Laboratory for testing.