: Aspergillus Niger Antibody, Cerebrospinal Fluid, Qualitative
: This test looks for antibodies against the mold Aspergillus niger in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), the fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. It is used to help evaluate whether a fungal infection involving the central nervous system may be present.
[": A positive result suggests exposure to Aspergillus niger and is interpreted together with symptoms, imaging, and other lab tests."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 18395-4
- Short code
- ASPNGAB
- Synonyms
- A niger Ab CSF Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile, leak-proof CSF collection tube (polypropylene screw-cap tube), tube #4 recommended for microbiology/serology
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA) / Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA) for detection of Aspergillus niger antibodies
- CPT
- 86606
- SNOMED
- 122328003
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of cerebrospinal fluid
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 24 hours; Frozen (-20°C or below): up to 2 weeks for antibody testing
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 48–168 hours
- Order
- routine
: What Is Being Tested
: The test detects antibodies your immune system makes against Aspergillus niger, a common environmental mold. The sample tested is cerebrospinal fluid, which is usually collected by a lumbar puncture (spinal tap).
: Why This Test Is Done
: It may be ordered when a fungal infection of the brain or spinal cord is suspected, especially in people with weakened immune systems or after certain neurosurgical procedures. CSF testing can help support or rule out a central nervous system fungal process.
: How to Prepare
: No special fasting or preparation is usually needed for the CSF collection itself. Tell your care team about any medications, especially blood thinners, and about allergies before a spinal tap.
: How the Sample Is Collected
: A clinician collects a small amount of cerebrospinal fluid through a lumbar puncture, typically from the lower back. The sample is sent to the laboratory for antibody testing.
Reference range
Negative (No Aspergillus niger antibodies detected). Positive results indicate exposure or infection with Aspergillus niger and require clinical correlation.N/A
No special preparation required. CSF collection is performed via lumbar puncture by a qualified healthcare provider under sterile conditions.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
: Clinical Significance: Antibodies to Aspergillus niger in CSF can indicate immune exposure to this mold, but a positive result alone does not prove active infection. Results are interpreted with symptoms, imaging, CSF cell counts and chemistry, cultures, and other fungal markers. A negative result does not fully exclude infection, and testing may be repeated or supplemented with other methods.
Short name
: Aspergillus niger Ab (CSF)
Frequently asked questions
: Does a positive result mean I have a fungal brain infection?
: Is a spinal tap required for this test?
: Can medications affect the result?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 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