Detection of (1,3)-β-D-glucans in situ in a Candida albicans brain granuloma

(1, 3)-β-D-glucan (BDG), a major fungal cell wall component, is a useful biomarker of invasive fungal infections (IFI), particularly candidosis, aspergillosis and pneumocystosis. The European Organization for the Research and Treatment of Cancer/Mycoses Study Group (EORTC/MSG) included this test for the diagnosis of IFI using serum samples. Nowadays, BDG is a helpful non-invasive biomarker to screen patients at high risk of IFI. Some studies have reported BDG detection in other samples: bronchoalveolar lavage, cerebrospinal and peritoneal fluid. To our knowledge, no studies have dealt directly with BDG testing in tissues.

Source: Journal of Infection - August 12, 2013 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Gautier Hoarau, Olivier Kerdraon, Marion Lagree, Matthieu Vinchon, Nadine François, François Dubos, Boualem Sendid Tags: Letters to the Editor Source Type: research