PNEUMOCYSTIS – IFA – ES129
🍄 Fungal Pneumonia & HIV Care📋 Test Details
- Report Time: 4th Working Day.
- Method: Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA) - High Sensitivity.
- Sample Type: Induced Sputum or Bronchoalveolar Lavage (BAL).
- Test Code: ES129
What is the Pneumocystis IFA Test?
This test detects the presence of the fungus Pneumocystis jirovecii. While this fungus is common in the environment and rarely affects healthy people, it causes a severe, life-threatening lung infection called Pneumocystis Pneumonia (PCP) in people with weakened immune systems.
The IFA (Immunofluorescence Assay) method uses fluorescent antibodies to light up the fungus under a microscope. It is considered more sensitive and accurate than standard staining methods.
Why is this Test Critical?
This test is primarily ordered for patients with symptoms of pneumonia (dry cough, fever, shortness of breath) who fall into high-risk categories:
PCP is the most common opportunistic infection in people with HIV (especially when CD4 counts drop below 200). Early detection is vital for survival.
People taking immunosuppressive drugs (after organ transplant) or chemotherapy are highly susceptible to this fungal infection.
Sample Collection Note
This is typically not a blood test. The sample required is usually Induced Sputum (phlegm coughed up from deep in the lungs) or Bronchoalveolar Lavage (BAL) fluid collected by a doctor in a hospital setting. Ensure you have the correct sample before booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Symptoms include a non-productive (dry) cough, fever, trouble breathing (especially with activity), and chest tightness. It usually develops slowly over weeks.
IFA is significantly more sensitive than traditional stains (like Silver or Giemsa). It can detect the fungus even when the organism count is low, which reduces the chance of a false negative.
Pneumocystis can spread through the air, but it usually only causes illness in people with weak immune systems. Healthy family members are generally not at risk.
Disclaimer: This is a specialized diagnostic test. Results should be interpreted by a Pulmonologist or Infectious Disease Specialist.