Histoplasma complement fixation is a blood test that checks for signs of infection due to a fungus called Histoplasma capsulatum (H. capsulatum). Some people who breathe in particles of this fungus may get an infection called histoplasmosis.

See also:

• Histoplasmosis - chronic pulmonary
• Histoplasmosis - disseminated
• Histoplasmosis - acute (primary) pulmonary
• Histoplasmosis - skin lesion

Histoplasma complement fixation is one of the most commonly used methods to test for a fungal infection caused by H. capsulatum.

You will need to give a blood sample.

The complement fixation test checks the blood for antibodies to H. capsulatum. Antibodies defend the body against bacteria, viruses, fungus, or other foreign body (antigen). Certain cells tell the body to produce antibodies during an active infection. If the antibodies are present, they stick, or "fix" themselves, to the antigen. That is why the test is called "fixation."

The test specifically looks for the antibodies in the clear liquid portion of the blood (serum). This general term for this method is called serology.

There is no special preparation for the test.

You may feel a prick or stinging sensation when the needle is inserted to draw your blood. Some people may have moderate pain. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.