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Updated: Jul 17, 2026
Detection of Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis in Haematological Malignancy Patients by using Lateral-flow Technology
Published on: March 22, 2012
[Serological diagnostic options in invasive fungal infections]
András Zóka1, Márton Gönczi1, Róbert Steinhauser1
11 Dél-pesti Centrumkórház, Országos Hematológiai és Infektológiai Intézet, Központi Laboratórium, Mikrobiológiai Profil Budapest, Albert Flórián út 5-7., 1097 Magyarország.
Abstract:
The early diagnosis of invasive fungal infections (including Candida spp., Aspergillus spp., Pneumocystis jirovecii, Cryptococcus spp.) and their differentiation from non-invasive colonization is an important but seldom easy task. The measurement of fungal cell wall compounds (glucans and mannans) in body fluids (primarily sera) can provide us with useful information without putting more invasive burden on the patient. Galactomannan antigens of the Aspergillus cell wall are detected by classical serological methods. 1,3-β-D-glucans are fundamental compounds of the cell walls of almost all fungi with the exceptions of Zygomycetes and Cryptococcus spp. The coagulation or modified, but principally similar biochemical cascade of the Atlantic horseshoe crab lyzed amoebocytes became the standard method for their detection, that is a process beyond classical serology (as it lacks an antigen-antibody bond). Numerous new or improved methods and test kits have become available in the market for the measurement of both galactomannan and 1,3-β-D-glucans since the latest updates of the European and American diagnostic guidelines. We believe that summarizing the recent changes in diagnostic utilities for the Hungarian medical community might prove helpful in making a more informed and conscious diagnostic choice. In our work, we also aim to cover the possible additional antigen- and antibody-based test options that may be relevant in temperate climates. Orv Hetil. 2024; 166(7): 243–252.
Insights
Accurate diagnosis of invasive fungal infections is challenging. Measuring fungal cell wall compounds like galactomannan and 1,3-β-D-glucans in serum offers a less invasive diagnostic approach for improved patient care.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Clinical Diagnostics
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Early and accurate diagnosis of invasive fungal infections is critical but difficult.
- Fungal cell wall components (glucans, mannans) in body fluids offer non-invasive diagnostic markers.
- Distinguishing invasive fungal infections from colonization requires reliable diagnostic tools.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize recent advancements in diagnostic methods for fungal infections.
- To provide an overview of galactomannan and 1,3-β-D-glucan detection methods.
- To aid the Hungarian medical community in making informed diagnostic choices.
Main Methods:
- Review of classical serological methods for galactomannan detection.
- Description of horseshoe crab amoebocyte lysate assay for 1,3-β-D-glucans.
- Inclusion of newer and improved commercial test kits for fungal biomarker measurement.
Main Results:
- Galactomannan detection targets Aspergillus species.
- 1,3-β-D-glucans are broadly detected in most fungal cell walls.
- Recent guideline updates highlight improved diagnostic utilities for these biomarkers.
Conclusions:
- Measurement of fungal cell wall compounds provides valuable diagnostic information.
- Newer methods enhance the accuracy and accessibility of fungal infection diagnostics.
- Consideration of antigen- and antibody-based tests is relevant for clinical practice.
