Understanding Your Laboratory Test: What It Is, Why Your Doctor Ordered It, and What Your Results May Mean
This blood test detects the genetic material (DNA) of Aspergillus fumigatus, a type of fungus that can cause serious infections, especially in people with weakened immune systems.
{"Detects DNA of Aspergillus fumigatus mold using advanced nucleic acid testing","Helps diagnose invasive aspergillosis, a serious fungal infection","Results are typically available within 1-3 days","Sample is collected from a blood draw (serum)","Mainly used for patients with weakened immune systems or suspected fungal infections"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 62478-3
- Short code
- A fumgtus DNA Spec Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- A fumgtus DNA Spec Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test and what does it measure in my body?
The Aspergillus fumigatus DNA test is a molecular diagnostic test that detects the presence of genetic material (DNA) from Aspergillus fumigatus, a common mold found in the environment. This test uses Nucleic Acid Amplification (NAA) with probe detection, which is a highly sensitive technique that can identify even small amounts of fungal DNA in your blood sample.
Why do I need this test and what can it tell my healthcare provider about my health?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of a fungal infection, especially if you have a weakened immune system. People at higher risk include those undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, patients with HIV/AIDS, or those taking long-term corticosteroids. Early detection of Aspergillus infection is crucial for prompt treatment.
How is the test performed and do I need to do anything special to prepare for it?
A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a laboratory where technicians use specialized equipment to extract and amplify any Aspergillus fumigatus DNA present in the serum. The probe detection method confirms the presence of the fungal genetic material.
What do the results mean and when can I expect to receive them from my doctor?
A positive result indicates that Aspergillus fumigatus DNA was detected in your blood, suggesting an active fungal infection. A negative result means no fungal DNA was detected, but it does not completely rule out infection—the fungus may be present in very low levels or limited to other parts of your body. Your healthcare provider will interpret these results in combination with your symptoms, imaging studies, and other test results.
Are there any risks, side effects, or complications I should be aware of before the test?
The risks are minimal and similar to routine blood tests. You may experience slight bruising at the puncture site, lightheadedness, or rarely, infection. These tests are generally very safe.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Aspergillus fumigatus is the most common cause of aspergillosis, a serious fungal infection that primarily affects the lungs but can spread to other organs. This test is crucial for early diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis, which has a high mortality rate if not treated promptly. Early detection allows healthcare providers to start antifungal therapy quickly, improving patient outcomes, especially in immunocompromised patients.
This test is particularly valuable because it can detect infection earlier than traditional culture methods or imaging studies. It helps differentiate between colonization (fungus present but not causing disease) and active infection, guiding treatment decisions.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Do I need to fast before this test?
What happens if my test is positive?
Can this test detect other types of fungi?
Is this test only for lung infections?
Sources
- 1
- 2CDC - AspergillosisSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy