Fungal Pathogen Detection Panel by Whole Blood Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
This test checks for genetic material from certain fungi in your blood, helping identify infections caused by organisms like *Candida* or *Aspergillus*. It’s used when symptoms suggest a fungal infection but traditional blood cultures haven’t confirmed it.
["This test helps diagnose fungal bloodstream infections quickly, especially in high-risk patients."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 92805-1
- Short code
- BFUNPNL
- Synonyms
- Bld fungal path panel Bld Pos NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Positive blood culture bottle (aerobic or anaerobic) or sterile transport tube containing blood culture broth
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 44
- Ref high
- 147
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- CPT
- 87481
- SNOMED
- 418820008
- Specimen volume
- Positive blood culture broth aliquot (typically 1-2 mL)
- Stability
- Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-70°C or below): 30 days
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, chills, or fatigue combined with signs of an infection (e.g., organ dysfunction). It’s particularly useful for patients with weakened immune systems, recent surgeries, or prolonged hospital stays. The test looks for DNA from fungi that can cause serious infections.
How the Test Works
Blood is collected and analyzed using PCR technology. This method detects tiny amounts of fungal DNA even if the organism isn’t yet growing in your blood. The test is highly sensitive and can provide results in days, unlike traditional blood cultures that may take weeks.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted to draw blood from a vein in your arm. If you’re on blood thinners or have a history of bleeding, let your provider know.
What to Expect After the Test
After the blood draw, you’ll likely feel minor discomfort or bruising at the site. Apply pressure to stop any bleeding. You can resume normal activities immediately. Results may take several days to arrive.
Reference range
Adult: 44-147 U/LN/A
No special patient preparation required. Specimen should be collected prior to initiation of antifungal therapy when clinically feasible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is critical for diagnosing fungal infections that can be life-threatening, especially in immunocompromised patients. Early detection allows for prompt treatment with antifungal medications, which can improve outcomes. It’s particularly useful for ruling out fungal infections in patients with unexplained fevers or organ failures.
Short name
PCR Blood Fungal Screen
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Is there any risk or side effect from this blood draw?
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