Galactomannan antigen in serum/plasma (quantitative)
This test measures the presence of galactomannan, a fungal polysaccharide, which can help detect certain infections caused by fungi like *Aspergillus*. It is often used in high-risk patients, such as those with weakened immune systems or undergoing chemotherapy.
["Helps detect fungal infections early, especially in vulnerable groups."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 44357-2
- Short code
- Galactomannan Ag SerPl IA-aCnc
- Synonyms
- Galactomannan Ag SerPl IA-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ia
- CPT
- 86038
- 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
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have risk factors for fungal infections, such as a history of cancer, organ transplant, or severe immune suppression. It may also be used in patients with symptoms like fever, cough, or lung issues that could be linked to fungal disease.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then processed to detect the presence of galactomannan in your serum or plasma.
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
A positive result suggests the presence of *Aspergillus* or other galactomannan-producing fungi in your body. However, it does not definitively diagnose infection—additional tests, like culture or imaging, may be needed to confirm.
What Does a Negative Result Mean?
A negative result means no detectable galactomannan was found in your sample. While this may indicate no active fungal infection, it does not rule out all possibilities. Other tests may still be required for diagnosis.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: This test is primarily used as a screening or confirmatory tool for fungal infections, particularly in high-risk patients. It is not a standalone diagnostic test but can guide further investigation, such as imaging studies or fungal cultures, to confirm the presence of infection and guide treatment decisions.
Short name
Galactomannan (GM) Test
Frequently asked questions
How often will I need this test?
What are the possible side effects of the blood draw?
Can I eat or drink before the 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