Blastomycosis laboratory findings
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
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Overview
Once suspected, the diagnosis of blastomycosis can usually be confirmed by demonstration of the characteristic broad based budding organisms in sputum or tissues by KOH prep, cytology, or histology.
Laboratory Findings
Commonly performed tests include:
- KOH preparation
- Tissue biopsy of skin or other organs may be required in order to diagnose extra-pulmonary disease.
- Commercially available urine antigen testing appears to be quite sensitive in suggesting the diagnosis in cases where the organism is not readily detected.
- While culture of the organism remains the definitive diagnostic standard, its slow growing nature can lead to delays in treatment of up to several weeks.
However, sometimes blood and sputum cultures may not detect blastomycosis; lung biopsy is another option, and results will be shown promptly.