Fungal Antigen in Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid (Quantitative)
This test measures the presence of fungal antigens in a sample collected from your lungs via a bronchoscope. It helps identify infections caused by fungi, such as certain types of mold or yeast, that may be difficult to detect with other tests.
["Assists in diagnosing fungal lung infections that may not show up on standard blood or sputum tests."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 32809-6
- Short code
- Fungus Bronch Fungus Stn
- Synonyms
- Fungus Bronch Fungus Stn
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- fungus-stain
- 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 detects specific fungal proteins (antigens) released into your lung fluid during an infection. These antigens are unique to certain fungi and can indicate active infection, even if you don’t have visible symptoms like coughing up mucus or fever.
Why It Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like persistent cough, chest pain, or breathing difficulties, especially if you’ve been exposed to moldy environments or have a weakened immune system. It’s also used in patients with chronic lung conditions (e.g., cystic fibrosis, HIV) where fungal infections are a risk.
How the Test Works
A bronchoscope—a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera—is inserted through your nose or mouth to reach your lungs. Fluid is collected from the airways (bronchoalveolar lavage), and the sample is tested for fungal antigens using an immunoassay method. This method detects the presence of these antigens with high sensitivity.
Preparation and Procedure
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to stop certain medications (like antifungals) that could affect results. The procedure is usually done under mild sedation to keep you comfortable. You’ll likely feel some discomfort during the insertion of the bronchoscope, but it’s temporary.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is particularly useful for diagnosing fungal infections in lung tissue that aren’t visible on standard imaging or sputum cultures. Early detection is critical for treating infections like aspergillosis or candidiasis, which can cause severe lung damage if untreated. It helps guide treatment decisions, especially in patients with weakened immune systems or chronic lung diseases.
Short name
Fungal Antigen in Bronchial Lavage
Frequently asked questions
How long will I need to wait for results?
What does a positive result mean?
Can I take any medications before this test?
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