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Dermatophyte IgM Antibody, Serum — Qualitative

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This blood test checks for IgM antibodies to dermatophytes, a group of fungi that can cause skin, hair, and nail infections.

Quick summary

["A positive result may suggest a recent dermatophyte fungal infection, but it must be interpreted with symptoms and other tests."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
18200-6
Short code
B dermat IgM Ser Ql
Synonyms
B dermat IgM Ser Ql
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82784
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?

This test examines serum for IgM antibodies against dermatophytes, fungi that commonly cause ringworm and other skin, hair, or nail infections. It is reported as positive, negative, or sometimes indeterminate.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test when a fungal skin infection is suspected but the diagnosis is unclear. It may also be used to help evaluate suspected exposure or infection, particularly when the affected area is persistent or has an atypical appearance.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, and the serum is tested for dermatophyte-specific IgM antibodies using a laboratory method. The laboratory may use an immunoassay or another antibody-detection method.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually needed. Tell your clinician if you have a known fungal infection, recently used antifungal medicine, or have a condition that affects your immune system, as these factors may affect the results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A positive result can indicate a recent or ongoing immune response to dermatophyte fungi. However, antibodies may remain detectable after an infection has resolved, so a positive result does not by itself confirm active disease. Results should be interpreted with your symptoms, examination findings, and other fungal tests when needed.

Short name

Dermatophyte IgM Antibody

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive dermatophyte IgM result mean?
It suggests that your immune system has produced IgM antibodies in response to a dermatophyte fungus. Your clinician will consider whether this fits your symptoms and examination.
Can a negative result rule out a fungal infection?
No. A negative result does not completely exclude dermatophyte infection, especially early in the illness or when the immune response is weak.
Is this the same as a skin scraping or fungal culture?
No. This test detects antibodies in blood, while a skin scraping and fungal culture examine or grow fungus from the affected area. They may be used together.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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