Description of the test
DNA extraction via NucliSens easyMAG/eMAG (BioMérieux) (semi-automated method.
- AsperGenius (Pathonostics) analysis via LightCycler 480II (Roche) (real-time PCR and melting curves)
- Additional info : https://w1.uzleuven.be/labo/LAG/LAG_Labogids/CMOL/LABA-AL041-AN54.pdf
Purpose of the test
Besides the detection of Aspergillus species, additional specific typing of Aspergillus fumigatus and Aspergillus terreus is done. In addition, the two most common triazole resistance mechanisms in the cyp51A gene of A. fumigatus are also detected, namely TR34/L98H and TR46/Y121F/T289A.
Criteria for performing this test in the context of reference activities
Suspicion of fungal infection in a patient at risk for fungal infections where a normal sterile sample (biopsy or puncture fluid) is collected.
Presence of fungal threads in the direct microscopic examination of a normal sterile sample.
Patient with probable invasive pulmonary aspergillosis in which the galactomannan determination in the BAL fluid is positive and the culture is negative (a supplemental request on the BAL fluid is possible in that context and offers the advantage that any resistance can be detected despite the negative culture).
Instructions for samples
- Sample: biopsy, bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) or normal sterile body fluid (various fluids)
- Storage at 2-8°C
- Longer than 10 days: freeze at -20°C / -70°C
Instructions for transportation
Transport at room temperature if less than 2 days, otherwise refrigerated transport
Unacceptable requests
Application form not fully completed, criteria not met
Turn around time (and frequency of analysis)
- 1-2 working days
- Output frequency: every working day (not weekends), during duty hours (batch)
Reporting of test results
Email and/or fax as designated by customer
Funding
Billing (€70)