Beta Glucan

Microbiology

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Test Usage

Diagnosis of invasive fungal infection

Specimen

Clotted blood – dedicated sample only for Beta glucan testing.

We will NOT accept any other investigations requested on a patient sample sent for this test.

Specimen container

Gold top tube

How To Request On EPIC

For electronic requesting using EPIC (RDUH ONLY):

Please search for: ‘Fungal Serology‘ or test code’LAB9315‘

Special Instructions

Usually only relevant in immunocompromised patients. Only sent after discussion with consultant microbiologist.

High Risk Specimens

Requests must indicate if a specimen is high risk. Please indicate details of the risk e.g. TB, MPox, Viral Haemorrhagic Fever.

For more details please see our guidance on high risk specimens.

Availability

Sent to UKHSA Mycology Reference Laboratory, UKHSA South West, Bristol

Turnaround Time

2 – 5 days

Urgent Specimen Instructions

Please contact the laboratory if you wish to discuss urgent processing of this test

Useful Links

For Patients:

Fungal Tests (labtestsonline.org.uk)

For Healthcare Professionals:

Mycology reference laboratory: service user handbook – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Specimen Labelling Procedure