ABPA SCREEN (TOTAL IGE, SPECIFIC IGE AF) in Btm-layout, Bangalore

ABPA Screen (Total IgE and Specific IgE AF): Price, Purpose, Range & Reports

Test Overview

The ABPA Screen is a critical, combined blood test designed to aid in the diagnosis and management of Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA). This complex allergic reaction primarily affects individuals with pre-existing lung conditions, most notably severe asthma and cystic fibrosis. ABPA is an allergic and immunological response to the common airborne fungus, Aspergillus fumigatus (AF). Instead of clearing the fungus, the immune system overreacts, leading to chronic inflammation, mucus plugging, and progressive damage to the airways.

This specialised screen measures two essential immune markers, both involving Immunoglobulin E (IgE), the antibody class central to all allergic reactions:

• IMMUNOGLOBULIN E (IgE) TOTAL: Measures the overall level of IgE antibodies in the bloodstream.
• Aspergillus Fumigatus IgE (Specific IgE AF): Measures the level of IgE antibodies specifically targeting the Aspergillus fumigatus fungus.

By combining these two measurements, the ABPA Screen provides powerful serological evidence crucial for confirming a diagnosis of ABPA, allowing for prompt initiation of anti-fungal and steroid treatments to protect lung function.

Understanding ABPA and the Role of IgE

Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA) is not a fungal infection, but a heightened allergic state. The body's immune system, particularly in the lungs, becomes hypersensitised to the presence of A. fumigatus spores, which are inhaled daily. Prevalence of ABPA is alarmingly high within specific patient populations who possess underlying chronic lung conditions or genetic predisposition. Recognising the at-risk patient is the first step toward effective screening.

High-Risk Patient Populations

• Cystic Fibrosis (CF): ABPA represents one of the most serious complications of cystic fibrosis. Research findings suggest that anywhere between 2% to 15% of people who have cystic fibrosis (CF) may develop a lung condition called allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) at some point in their life. The thick, stagnant mucus characteristic of CF airways provides an ideal environment for A. fumigatus spores to colonise and proliferate, constantly stimulating the immune system.
• Asthma: ABPA is a significant cause of severe or "difficult-to-treat" asthma. It is estimated that approximately $1\%$ to $2.5\%$ of all asthmatic patients have ABPA, rising to over $10\%$ in cohorts with severe, steroid-dependent asthma. In these patients, the fungus drives an intense, eosinophilic inflammation that is refractory (resistant) to standard asthma therapies alone.

Clinical Significance of Early Diagnosis

The primary clinical goal in diagnosing ABPA is to halt the inflammatory cycle before structural damage becomes permanent.

• Preventing Bronchiectasis: ABPA is a major cause of bronchiectasis, a condition where the bronchial tubes are permanently widened and scarred, leading to chronic infections and impaired mucus clearance. Early diagnosis and control of the allergic inflammation are the most effective strategies to prevent the progression of bronchiectasis.
• Improving Asthma Control: For asthmatics, identifying and treating ABPA can dramatically improve asthma control, reduce the frequency of exacerbations, and decrease the reliance on high-dose oral corticosteroids, which carry significant side effects.
• Monitoring Disease Activity: The levels of Total IgE measured by the screen serve as a critical biomarker for monitoring disease activity and response to therapy. 

The Pathophysiology of ABPA

In a person susceptible to ABPA, the exposure leads to a Type I (immediate) hypersensitivity reaction:

• Fungal Colonisation: A. fumigatus spores colonise the mucus in the airways but do not typically invade the tissue.
• Immune Response: The immune system perceives the fungus as a major threat, triggering a massive release of Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies.
• Chronic Inflammation: This reaction causes eosinophil activation and persistent inflammation within the airways, resulting in thick, tenacious mucus that blocks the small bronchi, leading to coughing, wheezing, and progressive loss of lung capacity.

The Significance of IgE Antibodies

IgE antibodies are the primary mediators of allergic responses. Their levels serve as key diagnostic criteria for ABPA:

• Total IgE: In ABPA, the total IgE level in the blood is often dramatically elevated, frequently exceeding $1000$ international units per millilitre (IU/mL). This general elevation reflects the chronic, heightened allergic state.
• Specific IgE AF: The presence of a high concentration of IgE specifically dedicated to attacking the Aspergillus fumigatus antigen confirms that the fungus is the culprit driving the allergic response.

The Components of the ABPA Screen

The simultaneous measurement of total and specific IgE offers superior diagnostic clarity compared to testing each marker in isolation.

1. IMMUNOGLOBULIN E (IgE) TOTAL

This test quantifies the overall amount of IgE circulating in the blood.

• Clinical Value: While high total IgE levels can be found in any severe allergic condition (e.g., eczema, general asthma, parasitic infections), an extreme elevation is a fundamental criterion for suspecting ABPA in a patient with compatible symptoms.
• Monitoring: Changes in Total IgE are also used to monitor treatment effectiveness. A successful therapeutic response (using steroids and anti-fungals) should result in a significant drop in the total IgE level.

2. Aspergillus Fumigatus IgE (Specific IgE AF)

This component measures the precise antibody response against the A. fumigatus fungus.

• Clinical Value: A positive result confirms specific sensitisation to A. fumigatus. This differentiates ABPA from other lung conditions, as it proves the fungus is the immunological trigger.
• Methodology: This test typically uses an immunoassay (such as ELISA or a chemiluminescent assay) to expose the patient's blood serum to purified A. fumigatus antigens and then quantify the resultant IgE binding.

When is the ABPA Screen Required?

This test is typically requested by a pulmonologist or allergist when a patient with pre-existing respiratory disease presents with worsening, hard-to-control symptoms.

Indications for Testing

• Severe or Refractory Asthma: Asthma that does not respond well to standard inhalers and requires frequent oral steroid use.
• Cystic Fibrosis (CF): Up to 15% of CF patients develop ABPA, making screening essential when respiratory function declines.
• Recurrent Pulmonary Infiltrates: New or shifting shadows or opacities seen on chest X-rays or CT scans, which may represent mucus plugging or inflammatory consolidation.
• Chronic Bronchiectasis: Damage to the airways leading to widening, often observed in patients with long-standing, poorly controlled respiratory issues.

Diagnostic Criteria (The Essential ABPA Triad)

A diagnosis of ABPA requires a combination of clinical, radiological, and laboratory findings. The ABPA Screen contributes significantly to the laboratory criteria:

• Clinical/Radiological: Symptoms of asthma or CF, combined with characteristic radiological findings (e.g., bronchiectasis).
• Immunological Proof: A highly elevated Total IgE level (often $>1000$ IU/mL).
• Specific Allergy Proof: A positive skin prick test to A. fumigatus, or, as measured by this screen, a positive Specific IgE AF result.

What is the ABPA Screen (Total IgE and Specific IgE AF) Test Price?

The ABPA Screen (Total IgE and Specific IgE AF) test price reflects the use of advanced immunoassay technologies, most commonly ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) or chemiluminescent immunoassays, to accurately measure both total and allergen-specific IgE levels.

Since this test evaluates multiple immunological parameters, the cost is generally higher than standard allergy or IgE tests.

The final cost may vary depending on factors such as your geographical location, the testing method used, and whether it is performed as part of a broader allergy or pulmonary diagnostic panel.

For the most updated and accurate ABPA Screen test cost near you, please visit the Apollo 24|7 platform for real-time pricing and availability.

Test Procedure and Preparation

The ABPA Screen is a routine blood test that measures antibodies in the serum.

Patient Preparation

• Fasting: Fasting is not required for this test, as food intake does not affect IgE antibody levels.
• Medication: While routine asthma medications or inhaled steroids are unlikely to interfere, if the patient is currently taking a high dose of oral steroids (prednisolone, etc.), this may temporarily suppress the Total IgE level, potentially leading to a false negative. Always inform your doctor of all current medications, especially immunosuppressants, before scheduling the test.
• Sample Type: A simple venous blood draw is collected by a phlebotomist.

Interpreting the Results

The results are used collaboratively with other tests (such as A. fumigatus IgG and eosinophil counts) to establish the definitive diagnosis:

• ABPA Highly Likely: Extremely high Total IgE AND Positive Specific IgE AF.
• Fungal Sensitisation Only: Normal or mildly elevated Total IgE AND Positive Specific IgE AF (may indicate mild allergic sensitisation without full-blown ABPA).
• General Allergy/Other Cause: Very high Total IgE AND Negative Specific IgE AF (suggests severe allergy or parasite infection, but ABPA is ruled out).
• Clinical Impact: A confirmed ABPA diagnosis drastically alters the treatment plan, necessitating the use of oral corticosteroids (to manage inflammation) and often antifungal agents (like itraconazole) to reduce the fungal load and lower the immune trigger, thereby preventing permanent lung damage.

Booking Your ABPA Screen with Apollo 24|7

Early and accurate diagnosis is vital for patients with ABPA to prevent irreversible bronchiectasis and maintain lung function. The ABPA Screen is the key serological tool for achieving this clarity.

Your Next Step for Precision Diagnostics

1. Schedule Easily: Locate the ABPA Screen (Total IgE, Specific IgE AF) on our platform and book your preferred date and time.
2. Convenient Collection: Benefit from professional, reliable blood collection by certified phlebotomists at your convenience.
3. Actionable Results: Receive a detailed report containing both your Total IgE and Specific IgE AF levels, empowering your specialist to make the precise diagnostic and therapeutic decisions needed to manage your respiratory health effectively.

Don't let undiagnosed ABPA compromise your lung health. Schedule your comprehensive ABPA Screen today.

Conclusion: Clarity for Respiratory Management

The ABPA Screen (Total IgE and Specific IgE AF) is a non-invasive yet highly specific diagnostic tool essential for individuals struggling with persistent or worsening respiratory issues, particularly those with existing asthma or cystic fibrosis. By accurately measuring both the generalised allergic state (Total IgE) and the precise antibody reaction to Aspergillus fumigatus (Specific IgE AF), this panel provides the critical immunological evidence needed to confirm Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis. This clarity is paramount, as an ABPA diagnosis requires specific and timely therapeutic intervention—often involving corticosteroids and antifungals—to prevent irreversible lung damage and manage symptoms effectively. Prompt screening ensures patients receive the targeted care they need for better long-term respiratory health.