NYMC Faculty Publications

Microbiological Laboratory Testing in the Diagnosis of Fungal Infections in Pulmonary and Critical Care Practice. An Official American Thoracic Society Clinical Practice Guideline

DOI

10.1164/rccm.201906-1185ST

Journal Title

American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine

First Page

535

Last Page

550

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

September 2019

Department

Medicine

Abstract

Background: Fungal infections are of increasing incidence and importance in immunocompromised and immunocompetent patients. Timely diagnosis relies on appropriate use of laboratory testing in susceptible patients.Methods: The relevant literature related to diagnosis of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis, invasive candidiasis, and the common endemic mycoses was systematically reviewed. Meta-analysis was performed when appropriate. Recommendations were developed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach.Results: This guideline includes specific recommendations on the use of galactomannan testing in serum and BAL and for the diagnosis of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis, the role of PCR in the diagnosis of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis, the role of beta-d-glucan assays in the diagnosis of invasive candidiasis, and the application of serology and antigen testing in the diagnosis of the endemic mycoses.Conclusions: Rapid, accurate diagnosis of fungal infections relies on appropriate application of laboratory testing, including antigen testing, serological testing, and PCR-based assays.

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