Modified indirect fluorescent-antibody test for aspergillosis

Abstract
Diffuse fluorescence in an indirect fluorescent-antibody test for antibody to Aspergillus fumigatus was eliminated by using germlings, rather than hyphae, as antigen. The modified method yielded diagnositic titers .gtoreq. 1:32 in 24 of 25 known [human] cases, was highly specific and showed good correlation with clinical status and results of immunodiffusion. This technique, which uses the germling antigen, inactivation of test serum at 59 .+-. 1.degree. C, and anti-immunoglobulin G conjugate, is a sensitive, specific, and reliable quantitative indicator of aspergillosis and is useful in following the course of the disease.