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Author Spotlight: Expanding the Scope of Multiplex Immunoassays for Lyme Borreliosis Diagnostics and Pathogen Research
Published on: July 14, 2023
Serological Approaches
Barbora Weinbergerova1, Iva Kocmanova2,3, Zdenek Racil2,4
1Department of Internal Medicine-Hematology and Oncology, Masaryk University and University Hospital Brno, Jihlavska 20, Brno, 62500, Czech Republic. weinbergerova.barbora@fnbrno.cz.
Abstract:
The diagnosis of invasive fungal diseases (IFD) based on clinical, radiological, and conventional microbiological findings is not reliable and is often delayed. Non-culture-based methods with higher sensitivity and specificity may reduce diagnostic time and result in decreased IFD morbidity and mortality. These methods are now increasingly used to manage patients at risk of IFD. Among available biomarkers, fungal antigens have been investigated as an aid to early diagnosis and are predominantly used as screening tests to prompt antifungal treatment mainly in patients with hematological malignancies. The revised version of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer/Mycoses Study Group (EORTC/MSG) consensus definitions includes some of these biological markers (galactomannan, 1,3-beta-D-glucan, cryptococcus antigen).
Insights
Diagnosing invasive fungal diseases (IFD) is challenging. Non-culture biomarkers like fungal antigens offer improved sensitivity and specificity for earlier detection and treatment, reducing patient mortality.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Biomarker Discovery
Background:
- Conventional diagnosis of invasive fungal diseases (IFD) relies on clinical, radiological, and microbiological data, often leading to delayed and unreliable results.
- Early and accurate diagnosis of IFD is crucial for timely antifungal treatment, especially in immunocompromised patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the role of non-culture-based diagnostic methods, particularly fungal biomarkers, in improving the early detection of IFD.
- To highlight the integration of biomarkers into updated consensus definitions for IFD diagnosis.
Main Methods:
- Review of non-culture-based diagnostic methods for IFD.
- Analysis of fungal antigen biomarkers such as galactomannan, 1,3-beta-D-glucan, and cryptococcus antigen.
- Examination of their use in patients at risk of IFD, particularly those with hematological malignancies.
Main Results:
- Non-culture-based methods demonstrate higher sensitivity and specificity compared to conventional diagnostics.
- Fungal antigen biomarkers aid in early screening and prompt antifungal therapy initiation.
- Inclusion of biomarkers in revised European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer/Mycoses Study Group (EORTC/MSG) criteria signifies their growing importance.
Conclusions:
- Non-culture-based biomarkers significantly enhance the early diagnosis of invasive fungal diseases.
- These biomarkers are vital for reducing IFD-related morbidity and mortality, especially in high-risk patient groups.
- The updated EORTC/MSG consensus definitions reflect the clinical utility of these advanced diagnostic tools.
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