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ASPERGILLUS FUMIGATU IgE Blood Test
I’ve started with a new pulmonologist and he ordered some bloodwork . The results are showing Aspergillus Fumigatu IgE “ abnormal , class2”. I also had a new chest CT, and waiting for those results .
Anyone have any experience with this blood test, or diagnosis ? Does it indicate an ABPA diagnosis ?
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@cholash Here is what Mayo Clinic has to say:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/aspergillosis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20369623
According to my earlier pulmonologist when I had a positive blood test, they look for scan evidence plus a positive culture. The blood test may be used in combination with a scan showing a fungal mass.
@sueinmn thank you . Did you ultimately test out negative , even though your blood test was positive ? This one is new to me , so I’m trying to understand it all.
@cholash Yes, sputum culture was negative, and no fungal evidence in my lungs per CT scan. But it worried me for a few weeks.
@sueinmn thank you. Yes…very worrisome . I’ll look forward to the CT.
@sueinmn why do some drs only Rx Abx for 12 months? My ID wanted to start me on 24 months ABx Rx. (You seem to be a RN.) But I have MG and it is triggered by Abx, generally. So we are in a wait and see place. My MG is stable w/o meds but is easily triggered now by any type of extra meds not currently on my list. Seems like people start and stop ABx, which I thought was probably not good for this diagnosis.
Here's my story. Looking forward to learning from each other.
Around 2007, I developed a persistent cough accompanied by a large amount of sputum. I was misdiagnosed for about two years until a doctor decided to check my IgE levels, which were off the charts. This was followed by a bronchoscopy, which confirmed a diagnosis of Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA).
Since then, I have experienced several years of relative calm, punctuated by occasional flare-ups. These flare-ups are typically treated with a round of steroids, antibiotics, and sometimes antifungal medication. One exacerbation around 2017 was severe enough to require another bronchoscopy, which reconfirmed the ABPA.
We monitor my IgE levels several times a year. While my IgE is still considered very high by medical standards, it is relatively low for me. In recent years, I have become more concerned with my associated bronchiectasis and occasional hemoptysis events. I am currently in the application process for NJH to determine how to best manage my condition. My major concern is the hemoptysis episodes. It makes daily life much more difficult when you never know if you will suddenly need an emergency room nearby.