1,3-B-D-Glucan
BDG
Description
"1,3-Beta-D-Glucan Test" is a blood test used to detect fungal infections by measuring the presence of glucan, a component of fungal cell walls. It's often recommended when a fungal infection is suspected but not visibly confirmed. This test doesn't diagnose alone but supports further investigation. A positive result suggests a systemic fungal infection, prompting doctors to order more specific tests. It's a useful early screening tool, especially in patients with weakened immune systems or unexplained infections.
Category
Enzymes
Procedure
Invasive
Sample Type
Blood – Serum
Units
Picograms Per Milliliter | Nanograms Per Liter
Procedure Category
Blood Draw
Test Group
Enzyme Group
Test Group Description
Enzyme Group: Evaluates enzyme levels and activity, offering insights into enzymatic function and related health conditions.
Optimal Range
For All Individuals:
Conventional Unit: Not Available
SI Unit: Not Available
Normal Range
For All Individuals:
Conventional Unit: < 60.00 pg/mL (Negative)
SI Unit: < 60.00 ng/L (Negative)
Results That Differ From The Norm (Direct and Indirect Causes)
Increased levels may indicate:
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (lung condition)
Aspergillosis (lung infection)
Candidiasis (fungal infection)
Chemotherapy (cancer treatment)
Cirrhosis (liver disease)
Crohn's disease (bowel inflammation)
Hemodialysis (kidney treatment)
- ...
Key Reasons For Testing
Detection of Fungal Infections: Identifies fungal pathogens like Candida and Aspergillus.
Early Diagnostic Aid: Supports early diagnosis, especially in immunocompromised patients.
Monitoring Treatment Response: Tracks the effectiveness of antifungal therapy.
Differentiating from Bacterial Infections: Uses fungal-specific markers to distinguish fungal infections.
Candidemia Diagnosis: Detects Candida bloodstream infections in critically ill patients.
Invasive Aspergillosis Diagnosis: Aids in diagnosing serious fungal infections like aspergillosis.
Health Status Conditions It May Be Used To Assess
Currently, this test is not directly associated with any conditions listed on the Health Status page. However, it may be included as part of a broader set of tests linked to specific health conditions.
Some Prominent Medical Labs That May Offer This Test
Please note that this particular test has not been associated with any of the listed prominent medical labs. We recommend enquiring with your private physician or nearest hospital to determine where this specific test can be performed.
References
Important Note
Any medical procedure yielding results outside the norm may be directly or indirectly linked to the conditions outlined on this page. Various factors, including genetics, medication and supplement usage, recent illnesses, pregnancy, pre-test eating, smoking, and stress, can impact the test's outcome. Additionally, factors like false positives, false negatives, inaccurate analyses, and others can influence results.
Reference ranges, which help healthcare professionals interpret medical tests, may vary depending on age, gender, and other factors. They may also differ between laboratories due to variations in instruments and methods used. Optimal ranges are designed for preventive purposes, aiming to identify trends and potential risks early, while normal ranges reflect conventional laboratory values indicating no current disease or pathology. Your healthcare practitioner may have specific reasons for testing that deviate from the usual or may interpret results differently based on individual circumstances. Proper interpretation typically involves considering clinical findings and other diagnostic tests. Hence, it is crucial to provide your healthcare professionals with a comprehensive medical history, consult with them for result interpretation, and follow their guidance for potential re-testing or additional diagnostics.
Disclaimer
This content is provided solely for informative and educational purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice or treatment from a personal physician. Regarding the interpretation of their medical test results and/or specific health questions, it is recommended that all readers and viewers consult their physicians or other qualified health professionals. The publisher is not responsible for any adverse health effects that may result from reading or following the information in this educational content. Before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program, all viewers, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physician or health care practitioner.
Please note that while prominent lab names are included in this content, we cannot guarantee that these labs offer all the tests mentioned. For confirmation, individuals should contact the labs directly or consult their medical practitioners. The information provided reflects general knowledge at the time of publication and may not include recent updates or emerging research. Readers should verify details with qualified professionals to ensure the most up-to-date and accurate guidance.
[1] Pickering JW, Sant HW, Bowles CA, et al. Evaluation of a (1→3)-β-d-glucan assay for diagnosis of invasive fungal infections. J Clin Microbiol. 2005;43(12):5957–5962.
[2] Karageorgopoulos DE, Vouloumanou EK, Ntziora F, et al. β-D-glucan assay for the diagnosis of invasive fungal infections: a meta-analysis. Clin Infect Dis. 2011;52(6):750-770.
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[8] Lamoth F, Cruciani M, Mengoli C, et al. β-Glucan antigenemia assay for the diagnosis of invasive fungal infections in patients with hematological malignancies: a systematic review and meta-analysis of cohort studies. Clin Infect Dis. 2012;54(5):633-643.
[9] Kawazu M, Kanda Y, Nannya Y, et al. Diagnostic potential of real-time PCR, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for galactomannan, and (1→3)-β-D-glucan test in screening for invasive aspergillosis in patients with hematological disorders. J Clin Microbiol. 2004;42(6):2733–2741.
[10] Odabasi Z, Mattiuzzi G, Estey E, et al. β-D-glucan as a diagnostic adjunct for invasive fungal infections. Clin Infect Dis. 2004;39(2):199-205.
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