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Evaluation of a chemiluminescent probe assay for identification of Histoplasma capsulatum isolates
G S Hall1, K Pratt-Rippin, J A Washington
1Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Ohio 44195.
Journal of Clinical Microbiology
|November 1, 1992
Abstract:
Fifty-three of 54 isolates of fungi were correctly identified with an acridinium ester-labelled probe for Histoplasma capsulatum (Accuprobe; Gen-Probe, San Diego, Calif.). One isolate of Aspergillus niger was incorrectly identified as H. capsulatum. Age of the culture, medium for isolation, and morphologic state did not affect the results.
Insights
A new probe accurately identified most Histoplasma capsulatum fungi. This diagnostic tool showed high accuracy, with only one Aspergillus niger misidentified, highlighting its potential in mycology.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Molecular Diagnostics
Background:
- Accurate identification of fungal pathogens is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.
- Histoplasma capsulatum is an important dimorphic fungus causing histoplasmosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of an acridinium ester-labeled probe for Histoplasma capsulatum identification.
Main Methods:
- Utilized an acridinium ester-labeled probe (Accuprobe) for the molecular identification of fungal isolates.
- Tested 54 fungal isolates, including Histoplasma capsulatum and other species.
Main Results:
- The probe correctly identified 53 out of 54 fungal isolates.
- One isolate of Aspergillus niger was misidentified as Histoplasma capsulatum.
- Culture age, isolation medium, and morphologic state did not impact probe performance.
Conclusions:
- The acridinium ester-labeled probe demonstrates high specificity and sensitivity for Histoplasma capsulatum detection.
- This molecular method offers a reliable tool for diagnosing histoplasmosis.