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NetWellness provides the highest quality health information and education services created and evaluated by faculty of our partner universities.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
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NetWellness provides the highest quality health information and education services created and evaluated by faculty of our partner universities.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
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Histoplasma skin testDefinitionHistoplasma skin test is a method to check if you have been exposed to a fungus called Histoplasma capsulatum. The fungus causes an infection called histoplasmosis. Why the Test is PerformedThis test is used to determine if a person has been exposed to the fungus that causes histoplasmosis. How the Test is PerformedThe health care provider will clean an area with hair, usually the forearm. An allergen is injected just below the cleaned skin surface. The injection site is checked at 24 hours and at 48 hours for signs of a reaction. Occasionally, the reaction may not appear until the fourth day. How to Prepare for the TestNo special preparation is necessary for this test. How the Test Will FeelThere will be a brief sting as a needle is inserted just below the skin surface. RisksThere is a slight risk of anaphylactic shock (a severe reaction). ConsiderationsThis test is rarely used today. It has been replaced by a variety of blood tests. Normal ResultsNo reaction (inflammation) at the site of the test is normal. Of note, the skin test can sometimes make histoplasmosis antibody tests turn positive. What Abnormal Results MeanA reaction means the person has been exposed to the histoplasmosis fungus.
Review Date: 8/16/2007 Reviewed By: Arnold L. Lentnek, MD, Division of Infectious Disease, Kennestone Hospital, Marietta, GA. 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 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.  |
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Please note: only your personal physician or other health professional you consult can best advise you on matters of your health based on your medical history, your family medical history, your medication history, and how information from any of these databases may apply to you. Neither University of Cincinnati (NetWellness) nor any party involved in creating, producing or delivering this web site shall be liable for any damages arising out of access to or use of this web site, or any errors or omissions in the content thereof. (More) |
