Histoplasma complement fixation

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Histoplasma complement fixation

Definition:

Histoplasma complement fixation isone of the most commonly used methods to test for antibodies to the fungus histoplasma capsulatum (H. capsulatum). People who breath in the fungus particles may get an infection called histoplasmosis.

Alternative Names:
Histoplasma antibody test
How the test is performed:

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Antibodies defend the body against bacteria, viruses, fungus, or other foreign body (antigen). Certain cellstell the body to produce antibodies during an active infection.

In the initial stage of an illness, few antibodies may be detected. Antibody production increases during the course of an infection. For this reason, such tests are often repeated several weeks after the first test is done.

The complement fixation test looks to see ifthe body has produced antibodies to a specific antigen -- in this caseH. capsulatum.The test specifically looks for the antibodies inthe clear liquid portion of the blood, whichcalled the serum. This general term for this method is called serology.

If antibodies are present, they stick, or "fix" themselves, to the antigen.

How to prepare for the test:

There is no special preparation for the test.

How the test will feel:

You may feel a prick or stinging sensation whenthe needle is inserted. Others may have moderate pain. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.

Why the test is performed:

The test is performed to detect a fungal infection caused by histoplasma.

References:
Deepe GS. Histoplasma capsulatum. In: Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases. 5th ed. GL Mandell, JE Bennett, R Dolin, eds. New York, NY: Churchill Livingstone; 2000:2718-2731.