The Fungal Pathogen that Causes Aspergillosis Identified through qPCR Testing

Cinnaminson, NJ, November 16, 2012
 
Aspergillosis is an infection or allergic response caused by exposure to a type of fungus known as Aspergillus. The fungus is commonly found occurring naturally outdoors as well as in homes and buildings that have suffered from water damage or elevated humidity levels.
 
There are several different forms of aspergillosis. One kind is allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (also called ABPA).  When this occurs, the fungus causes allergic respiratory symptoms, but does not actually invade and destroy tissues in the body. Another kind of aspergillosis is known as invasive aspergillosis.  This condition usually affects people with a weakened immune system.  During invasive aspergillosis the fungus invades and damages tissues in the body.  Aspergilloma is the growth of a fungal ball that typically develops in an area of the lung that has suffered from past lung disease or scarring.
 
People with a weakened immune system should avoid being in homes and buildings with high levels of Aspergillus.  The only way to know for sure if the fungus is present is to perform air testing.  One of the nation’s leading fungal testing laboratories is EMSL Analytical, Inc.
 
“EMSL’s scientists perform traditional microscopy and culturing methods in addition to Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction, also known as qPCR, for determining the presence of Aspergillus,” reported Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President, Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc.  “qPCR is a cutting edge molecular technique for analyzing for the genetic material specific to an organism.  EMSL offers three different qPCR Aspergillus panels that range from six to sixteen species.  This technique is exceptionally fast, accurate, and sensitive.”       
 
EMSL has sponsored an educational video about airborne fungal pathogens, including aspergillosis, which can be seen at:
http://youtu.be/BMWFUqTu5w8
 
To learn more about testing for Aspergillus or other microbial pathogens and contaminants through traditional or qPCR techniques, please contact EMSL Analytical at www.EMSL.com, call (800)220-3675 or email info@EMSL.com .
 
About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of environmental and materials testing services and products to professionals and the general public.  The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical

(1) 1-800-220-3675

jfrasca@emsl.com