CSF coccidioides complement fixation Alternate Names : Coccidioides antibody test - spinal fluid Definition CSF coccidioides complement fixation looks for antibodies to the fungus Coccidioides immitis in the cerebrospinal (CSF) fluid, the fluid surrounding the brain and spine. Why is the Test Performed? Complement fixation is the most sensitive test for the fungus Coccidioides immitis. How is the Test Performed? Complement fixation is a specific laboratory technique that looks to see if the body has produced antibodies to a specific foreign substance (antigen) -- in this case Coccidioides immitis. If the antibodies are present, they stick, or "fix" themselves, to the antigen. That's why the test is called "fixation." The spinal fluid needed to perform this test is usually obtained by lumbar puncture (spinal tap). How to Prepare for the Test? A consent form must be signed. You will need to remain in the hospital for about 8 hours afterwards, and you should remain lying flat. How will the Test Feel? See: Lumbar puncture Pictures & Images Blood test               See all Pictures & Images

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• CSF coccidioides complement fixation : Definition
• CSF coccidioides complement fixation : Why is the Test Performed?
• CSF coccidioides complement fixation : How is the Test Performed?
• CSF coccidioides complement fixation : How to Prepare for the Test?
• CSF coccidioides complement fixation : How will the Test Feel?
• CSF coccidioides complement fixation : Risks
• CSF coccidioides complement fixation : Special Considerations
• CSF coccidioides complement fixation : Normal Values
• CSF coccidioides complement fixation : What do Abnormal Results Mean?
• CSF coccidioides complement fixation : References
• CSF coccidioides complement fixation : Pictures & Images
• Blood test

Review Date : 5/30/2009
Reviewed By : David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Jatin M. Vyas, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor in Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Assistant in Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.