ABPA (Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis) Panel

ABPA (Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis) Panel: Test Details, Purpose & Precautions

The ABPA Panel is a set of blood tests used to diagnose Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA), a lung condition caused by an allergic reaction to Aspergillus fumigatus, a type of fungus. This condition is most common in individuals with asthma or cystic fibrosis.

1. Tests Included in the ABPA Panel

🔹 Serum Total IgE (Immunoglobulin E)

• Measures overall IgE levels in the blood.
• Elevated (>1000 IU/mL) suggests ABPA (higher in severe cases).
• Helps differentiate ABPA from asthma and other lung conditions.

🔹 Aspergillus fumigatus-Specific IgE

• Detects IgE antibodies against Aspergillus fumigatus.
• Positive result confirms allergic sensitization to Aspergillus.
• A key marker for diagnosing ABPA.

🔹 Aspergillus fumigatus-Specific IgG

• Measures IgG antibodies against Aspergillus.
• Helps differentiate ABPA from invasive Aspergillosis.
• Elevated in ABPA but much higher in chronic Aspergillosis.

🔹 Serum Galactomannan Test

• Detects Galactomannan, a fungal antigen released by Aspergillus.
• More useful for diagnosing invasive Aspergillosis rather than ABPA.
• Can help rule out invasive fungal infections in immunocompromised patients.

2. Purpose of ABPA Panel

✔ Diagnoses ABPA in patients with asthma or cystic fibrosis.
✔ Differentiates ABPA from simple Aspergillus sensitization.
✔ Monitors ABPA disease progression and response to treatment.
✔ Rules out invasive Aspergillosis in immunocompromised patients.

3. Interpretation of ABPA Panel

✅ If Serum IgE is very high & Aspergillus fumigatus-Specific IgE is positive → ABPA suspected.
✅ If Galactomannan is positive → Consider Invasive Aspergillosis, especially in immunocompromised patients.

4. Precautions & Preparation for ABPA Panel

✔ No fasting required.
✔ Inform your doctor if you have asthma or cystic fibrosis, as these conditions increase the risk of ABPA.
✔ Avoid taking antifungal medications before testing unless advised, as they may affect results.
✔ Lung function tests (PFTs) and Chest CT may be recommended for ABPA confirmation.