The value of the Premier enzyme immunoassay for diagnosing Blastomyces dermatitidis infections

One hundred and three sera drawn from 20 proven and 65 suspected cases of blastomycosis were examined concurrently with the enzymes immunoassay and microimmunodiffusion tests for the 'A' antibody specific for Blastomyces dermatitidis. Results indicated that all 20 proven sera were positive by both these tests. Thirteen of the 65 sera from suspected blastomycosis cases were positive by the enzyme immunoassay only, whereas none reacted positively in the micro-immunodiffusion test. Eighteen sera from apparently normal subjects, and patients with heterologous fungal and HIV infections were also tested by both tests. The sensitivity and specificity of the enzyme immunoassay test was 100% and 85.6%, respectively. The micro- immunodiffusion test was 100% sensitive and specific. In light of the fact that the enzyme immunoassay test is not entirely specific, a positive result should be confirmed by either a positive culture, histopathology or micro-immunodiffusion test.