Broncho Alveolar Lavage for Galactomannan (AKU)

Specimen Required

Fasting Required

Purpose of the Broncho Alveolar Lavage for Galactomannan (AKU) Test

Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) for Aspergillus galactomannan antigen testing is performed to diagnose invasive aspergillosis, a serious fungal infection that can affect the lungs or other organs in individuals with weakened immune systems.

When this Broncho Alveolar Lavage for Galactomannan (AKU) test is required

The test may be requested when an individual is suspected to have an invasive aspergillosis infection.

What the Broncho Alveolar Lavage for Galactomannan (AKU) Test Detects

The test detects the presence of galactomannan, a cell wall component of Aspergillus fungi, in the BAL fluid sample.

Preparation for the Broncho Alveolar Lavage for Galactomannan (AKU) Test

There may be certain dietary or medication restrictions before the procedure, as well as the need for a local anesthetic to numb the throat.

Sample Requirements

This test requires a bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) sample, which is obtained by inserting a bronchoscope into the patient’s airway to collect fluid and cells from the lower respiratory tract.

Additional Notes

It is important to note that other factors, such as clinical signs and symptoms, imaging studies, and microbiological cultures, are typically considered along with the test results to make a definitive diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis. Additionally, a negative test result does not necessarily rule out the presence of an infection.

Selected Tests