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Fungal Pathogen Detection Panel (Lower Respiratory Tract) – Probe-Based Assay

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

This test detects specific fungal organisms in your respiratory secretions, helping identify infections like histoplasmosis, coccidioidomycosis, or other fungal pathogens in the lower respiratory tract.

Quick summary

["This test helps diagnose fungal infections in your lungs or airways."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
95919-7
Short code
Fungal path panel Lower resp NAA+probe
Synonyms
Fungal path panel Lower resp NAA+probe
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
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
84075
SNOMED
27550007
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 This Test Measures

The test uses a molecular probe to identify genetic material from common fungal pathogens present in your respiratory secretions. It detects specific DNA sequences linked to fungi such as *Histoplasma*, *Coccidioides*, or others, depending on the clinical suspicion.

Why It’s Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like persistent cough, chest pain, or fever, especially in areas where certain fungal infections are common. It’s also used in patients with weakened immune systems or those at higher risk for fungal infections.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A sterile swab or sample of your respiratory secretions (e.g., sputum or bronchoalveolar lavage fluid) is collected. The sample is then processed in the lab to extract and analyze fungal DNA using a probe-based method.

How Results Are Interpreted

Results are qualitative (positive or negative) for the presence of fungal DNA. A positive result indicates likely fungal infection, while a negative result means no detectable fungal DNA was found in the sample.

Reference range

Adult: 44-147 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Frequently asked questions

A positive test result supports a diagnosis of fungal pneumonia or other respiratory fungal infections, guiding treatment decisions such as antifungal medications. It helps differentiate fungal infections from bacterial or viral causes, ensuring targeted therapy.
This test is not used to measure fungal counts or quantify infection severity. It focuses solely on detecting the presence of fungal DNA in your respiratory tract.
The test results are typically available within 2–5 business days, depending on lab processing times.
If you have a history of fungal infections or live in an area with endemic fungal diseases, your provider may order this test more frequently.
The sample must be collected properly to ensure accurate results. If you’re taking antifungal medications, inform your provider before testing, as this may affect results.
No special preparation is needed for this test, but avoid smoking or inhaling irritants before sample collection to reduce contamination.
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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