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DNA Labs India

(1 3)-Beta-D-Glucan (BDG) Test

DNA Labs India | ISO 9001:2015 Certified

(1 3)-Beta-D-Glucan (BDG) Test

Short Name: BDG Test

Also known as: BDG Test, Beta-D-Glucan Test, Fungal Infection Test

(1 3)-Beta-D-Glucan (BDG) Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹13,000. Uses Spectrophotometry on Serum, BAL fluid, or CSF samples. Results in 1 week. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

Blood Test🏠 Home Collection

✍️ Written By

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal

Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal

Consultant Microbiologist · Reg: 27670

Last reviewed: September 7, 2026

Overview

To diagnose and monitor fungal infections by measuring Beta-D-Glucan levels in blood or other body fluids, aiding in early detection and treatment assessment.

Test Code
13
Price
₹13,000
Sample Type
Serum, BAL fluid, or CSF
Result Time
1 week
Fasting Required
No
Method
Spectrophotometry
Step 1

Sample Collection

No fasting required. Inform your physician about any medications, especially antibiotics or immunoglobulins, and any allergies.

Method: Venipuncture for serum; Lumbar puncture for CSF; Bronchoalveolar lavage for BAL

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

For serum: blood is drawn from a vein in the arm. For CSF: collected via lumbar puncture. For BAL: obtained during bronchoscopy. These procedures are performed by healthcare professionals.

Step 3

Report Delivery

Apply pressure to the puncture site to prevent bruising. Resume normal activities unless advised otherwise. Mild discomfort may occur.

Timeline: 1 week

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:No special preparation is required. Continue medications as prescribed unless instructed otherwise.
2
During the Test:The test involves a simple blood draw or fluid collection procedure, typically completed in minutes with minimal discomfort.
3
After the Test:You may experience slight bruising or soreness at the collection site. Results are usually available within one week.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

To diagnose and monitor fungal infections by measuring Beta-D-Glucan levels in blood or other body fluids, aiding in early detection and treatment assessment.

How to Prepare

  • Use a red top tube without additives for serum, preferably glucan-free
  • For BAL and CSF, use sterile screw-capped containers
  • Label samples correctly with patient information
  • Ship serum refrigerated or frozen as per stability guidelines
  • Ensure proper handling to avoid contamination

Doctor's Notes

Reviewed by — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670

"The BDG test is vital for early detection of invasive fungal infections, particularly in immunocompromised patients, aiding in timely treatment and improved outcomes."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypeSerum, BAL fluid, or CSF
Sample Volume2 mL serum, 2 mL BAL fluid, or 1 mL CSF
ContainerRed Top tube (no additive) preferably glucan-free, or sterile screw-capped container
Collection MethodVenipuncture for serum; Lumbar puncture for CSF; Bronchoalveolar lavage for BAL

Sample Stability

Room Temperature: 2 hours
Refrigerated (2-8°C): 48 hours
Frozen (-20°C or below): up to 2 weeks
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Sample in incorrect or non-sterile container
  • Hemolyzed, lipemic, or contaminated sample
  • Insufficient sample volume
  • Improper labeling or storage conditions

Understanding Your Results

Results of the BDG test are interpreted based on the measured concentration of Beta-D-Glucan. Levels are compared to reference ranges to indicate the likelihood of a fungal infection.
📊

Negative for fungal infection

Action: Consider other causes of symptoms; correlate with clinical findings

Range: <60 pg/mL

📊

Positive for fungal infection

Action: Consult an infectious disease specialist for confirmation and initiation of antifungal therapy

Range: ≥60 pg/mL

⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

Consult a doctor if the test is positive, if symptoms persist despite a negative test, or if you are at high risk for fungal infections (e.g., immunocompromised).

Limitations

  • ⚠Cannot identify the specific fungal species causing the infection
  • ⚠False positives possible with certain medications or conditions
  • ⚠Not effective for all types of fungal infections (e.g., mucormycosis)
  • ⚠Results should be correlated with clinical symptoms and other tests
  • ⚠Reference ranges may vary between laboratories

Risks & Considerations

  • ●Bruising or hematoma at the puncture site
  • ●Rare risk of infection at the collection site
  • ●Dizziness or lightheadedness during blood draw
  • ●Specific risks for CSF or BAL collections as per procedure

Interfering Factors

  • ●Use of certain antibiotics like piperacillin-tazobactam or amoxicillin-clavulanate
  • ●Hemolyzed, lipemic, or icteric samples
  • ●Presence of other glucans from sources like cellulose filters or intravenous solutions
  • ●Recent use of intravenous immunoglobulin or albumin
  • ●Sample contamination during collection or processing

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the (1 3)-Beta-D-Glucan (BDG) test?
The BDG test is a blood test that measures levels of Beta-D-Glucan, a substance found in fungal cell walls, to help diagnose fungal infections in the body.
Why is the BDG test performed?
It is performed to detect invasive fungal infections, especially in individuals with symptoms like persistent fever, cough, or in immunocompromised patients, and to monitor treatment effectiveness.
How much does the BDG test cost at DNA Labs India?
The cost of the BDG test at DNA Labs India is INR 13000, with free home sample collection available across India.
Is home sample collection available for the BDG test?
Yes, DNA Labs India offers free home sample collection for the BDG test when booked online, covering numerous cities across India.
What are the common symptoms of fungal infections?
Symptoms include fever, cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, skin rash, headache, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, depending on the infection site.
How long does it take to get results for the BDG test?
Results are typically available within one week after sample collection, and can be accessed via online portal, email, or WhatsApp.
What sample types are used for the BDG test?
The test can be performed on serum (blood), bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid, or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), collected as specified.
Can the BDG test identify the specific type of fungus?
No, the BDG test indicates the presence of fungal infection but cannot identify the exact fungal species; further testing like cultures may be needed.
Who should undergo the BDG test?
The test is recommended for individuals with suspected fungal infections, such as those with persistent symptoms, immunocompromised conditions, or under antifungal treatment monitoring.
Is the BDG test covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by insurance provider; it is not universally covered. Check with your insurer for specific details on schemes like PMJAY, CGHS, or private plans.
What is the normal range for BDG levels?
Generally, a negative result is <60 pg/mL, and a positive result is ?60 pg/mL, but reference ranges may vary between laboratories. Always consult your physician for interpretation.
Are there any risks associated with the BDG test?
The test is low-risk, with possible minor bruising at the collection site, rare infection, or dizziness. Risks are minimal when performed by trained professionals.
Worried about the process? Our certified phlebotomists collect thousands of samples every month across India. The process takes under 5 minutes and is virtually painless. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp — we're here 7 days a week.

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