TABLE 2

Diagnostic tests in endemic mycosis

HistoplasmosisCoccidioidomycosisBlastomycosis
CulturePositive in 75%High yieldHigh yield
Urine antigen detection75%–90% sensitivity
Cross-reactivity with blastomycosis, paracoccidioidomycosis
Sensitivity and specificity not known93% sensitivity
95.6% cross-reactivity with histoplasmosis
Serologic testingHigh sensitivity
Cross-reactivity with blastomycosis and coccidioidomycosis
High sensitivity and specificityNot useful
Poor sensitivity
Significant cross-reactivity with histoplasmosis
Nucleic acid testingUncertain valueUnder development86% sensitivity
99% specificity