Aspergillus antigen skin test

Injury	Disease	Nutrition	Poison

Symptoms	Surgery	Test	Special Topic

Overview

Risks

Results

Aspergillus antigen skin test

Definition:

Aspergillus is a mold. An antigen is a substance that stimulates the immune system to eliminate or fight foreign substances in the body. This skin test detects hypersensitivity to aspergillus.

Alternative Names:

Immediate Aspergillus skin test

How the test is performed:

The test site (an area with hair, usually the forearm) is cleansed. The antigen is then injected into the area. If there is a positive reaction, the area should turn red and develop a lump (similar to a mosquito bite) within ten minutes of injection. The lump should be at least 3 millimeters in diameter to be considered positive.

How to prepare for the test:

There is no special preparation necessary.

How the test will feel:

There will be a brief sting as a needle is inserted just below the skin surface.

Why the test is performed:

The test is to detect hypersensitivity to the mold aspergillus.

Review Date: 2/10/2006
Reviewed By: Kenneth Wener, M.D., Division of Infectious Diseases, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.