Description
Why It’s Done:
This test is performed to:
• Diagnose histoplasmosis, particularly in disseminated or CNS involvement.
• Investigate symptoms such as:
o Fever, cough, chest pain
o Headache, neck stiffness (if CNS is involved)
o Shortness of breath
o Fatigue or weight loss
• Support diagnosis in immunocompromised patients (e.g., HIV/AIDS, organ transplant recipients) who are more prone to systemic fungal infections.
• Monitor response to treatment or evaluate disease progression.
Preparation:
• No specific preparation is required from the patient.
• The sample is usually collected from the relevant body fluid (e.g., CSF via lumbar puncture, pleural fluid via thoracentesis, or bronchoalveolar lavage).
• Inform your doctor if you have:
o A history of exposure to bird/bat droppings or caves (common sources of Histoplasma).
o Any immune system conditions or are taking immunosuppressive medications
