Galactomannan (Aspergillus) - detection

Alternative Names/Synonyms	Serologic detection of the Aspergillus galactomannan antigen
Laboratory	Microbiology
Sub-section	Serology
Specimen Type	○ BAL ○ Serum

Other Information

○ BAL and serum samples must be uncontaminated with fungal spores and/or bacteria

Specimen Requirements (Tube Type)

○ BAL: sterile container
○ Serum: serum separator tube (min volume 5 mL blood)

Collection Requirements

BAL:
○ Pass bronchoscope transnasally or transorally (if patient is not intubated) or via endotracheal tube (if patient is intubated). Instill a large volume of 0.85% sterile saline (nonbacteriostatic) into the airway lumen. Discard the initial fluid recovered (likely contaminated). Collect remaining fluid in a clean, sterile container via suction.

Serum:
○ Decontaminate skin with 70% alcohol followed by iodine or chlorhexidine, collect at least 5 mL of blood if multiple tests will be ordered

Sample Stability

Refer to section Sample Processing / Delivery

Referral Laboratory

In-house

Routine Turnaround Time

○ Up to 3 days

Laboratory Contact Information

416-586-4800 extension 4503

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 transported to the UHN/SH Microbiology Laboratory ASAP.