Pneumocystis IFA Test
Short Name: Pneumocystis IFA
Also known as: Pneumocystis jirovecii IFA, Pneumocystis carinii IFA, PCP IFA Test, Pneumocystis Direct Immunofluorescence
Pneumocystis IFA Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹4,000. Uses Direct Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA) on Sputum / Induced Sputum / BAL fluid samples. Results in Samples received by 9 am are reported the same day. Reports are available online and can also be sent by email or WhatsApp.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal
Consultant Microbiologist · Reg: 27670
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The purpose of the Pneumocystis IFA test is to detect the presence of Pneumocystis jirovecii in respiratory specimens. It aids in the diagnosis of Pneumocystis pneumonia and helps guide early treatment in immunocompromised patients.
- Test Code
- 3566
- CPT Code
- 87285
- ICD Code
- B59
- Price
- ₹4,000
- Sample Type
- Sputum / Induced Sputum / BAL fluid
- Result Time
- Samples received by 9 am are reported the same day. Reports are available online and can also be sent by email or WhatsApp.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Direct Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA)
Sample Collection
No special preparation is required. Fasting is not needed. Please inform your doctor about your current medications, especially any antifungal or anti-Pneumocystis therapy.
Method: Expectoration / Induced sputum / Bronchoscopy with BAL
Laboratory Analysis
You will be asked to cough deeply to produce sputum. If needed, the healthcare provider may perform induced sputum collection or bronchoscopy with BAL.
Report Delivery
The specimen should be transported to the laboratory promptly. Keep the sample refrigerated unless instructed otherwise. Do not freeze.
Timeline: Samples received by 9 am are reported the same day. Reports are available online and can also be sent by email or WhatsApp.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of the Pneumocystis IFA test is to detect the presence of Pneumocystis jirovecii in respiratory specimens. It aids in the diagnosis of Pneumocystis pneumonia and helps guide early treatment in immunocompromised patients.
How to Prepare
- Collect sputum/induced sputum/BAL fluid in a sterile screw-capped container.
- Ship refrigerated.
- DO NOT FREEZE.
- Avoid contaminating the sample with saliva or food.
- Deliver to the laboratory within 8 hours at room temperature or 24 hours refrigerated.
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"In immunocompromised patients with unexplained fever, hypoxia, or dry cough, PCP should be considered early. A negative Pneumocystis IFA does not completely exclude infection; if clinical suspicion remains high, bronchoscopy with BAL and molecular testing may be required."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Frozen specimen
- Inadequate sample volume or pure saliva
- Incorrect or unlabeled container
- Sample received after stability period
- Leaking or non-sterile container
Understanding Your Results
Negative
No Pneumocystis jirovecii detected in the respiratory specimen. If clinical suspicion remains high, additional testing such as PCR or bronchoscopy may be needed.
Positive
Pneumocystis jirovecii organisms detected. This supports a diagnosis of Pneumocystis pneumonia and should be correlated clinically.
Consult a doctor immediately if you have worsening breathlessness, rapid breathing, persistent fever, dry cough, or chest pain, especially if you have a weakened immune system.
Limitations
- ⚠Negative IFA does not fully exclude PCP; bronchoscopy with BAL may be needed if suspicion is high
- ⚠IFA is less sensitive than PCR for low organism burden
- ⚠Requires adequate respiratory sample; poor-quality sputum may reduce diagnostic accuracy
- ⚠Direct IFA detects organisms, not antibodies; results should be interpreted with clinical and radiological findings
Risks & Considerations
- ●No significant risks for sputum collection.
- ●Bronchoscopy with BAL is an invasive procedure; risks include minor throat discomfort, cough, or bleeding and are explained by the treating doctor.
Interfering Factors
- ●Recent use of anti-Pneumocystis medication may reduce organism load and cause false negative
- ●Blood contamination or excessive saliva/mucous in the sample
- ●Improper sample storage or delayed transport
- ●Inadequate coughing or poor collection technique
Compare With Similar Tests
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Pneumocystis IFA test?
What is the cost of Pneumocystis IFA test in India?
Do I need to fast before the Pneumocystis IFA test?
What sample is needed for the Pneumocystis IFA test?
How soon will I get my report?
Is home sample collection available for this test?
What do positive and negative results mean?
Who is at risk for Pneumocystis pneumonia?
What are common symptoms of PCP?
Is the Pneumocystis IFA test a blood test?
Can I take anti-Pneumocystis medication before the test?
How should the sample be transported?
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