What is the Beta-D-Glucan Test?

The Beta-D-Glucan test measures the level of beta-D-glucan in the blood, a polysaccharide found in the cell walls of many fungi. When invasive fungal infections occur, beta-D-glucan is released into the bloodstream and can be detected through blood testing.

This test does not identify a specific fungal species but acts as a broad screening marker for invasive fungal disease. It is particularly valuable because fungal infections can be difficult to diagnose early using conventional cultures.

Beta-D-glucan testing is widely used in hospital and specialist settings to support rapid clinical decision-making.

Why do I need a test for Beta-D-Glucan?

You may need this test if an invasive fungal infection is suspected, especially if you are immunocompromised. Fungal infections can progress rapidly and may be life-threatening if not detected early.

The test is often used when symptoms are non-specific, cultures are negative, or early treatment decisions are required. It is commonly used in patients undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplantation, or long-term immunosuppressive therapy.

Symptoms and scenarios where testing is recommended:

• Persistent or unexplained fever
• Immunosuppression or neutropenia
• Cancer or chemotherapy treatment
• Organ or stem cell transplant
• Suspected invasive candidiasis
• Suspected aspergillosis
• Intensive care monitoring
• Unexplained infection not responding to antibiotics

Benefits of the Beta-D-Glucan Test

• Early detection of invasive fungal infections
  Identifies infection before cultures become positive.
• Broad fungal screening marker
  Detects multiple fungal species with one test.
• Supports rapid treatment decisions
  Helps guide early antifungal therapy.
• Useful when cultures are negative
  Improves diagnostic sensitivity.
• Essential for immunocompromised patients
  Reduces risk of delayed diagnosis.
• Monitors treatment response
  Falling levels may indicate improvement.
• Non-invasive diagnostic tool
  Requires only a blood sample.
• Widely validated clinical marker
  Used in international fungal infection guidelines.

Step-by-Step: How Testing Works

Choose your preferred testing method

You can attend one of our UK partner clinics or arrange a home or hotel visit with a mobile phlebotomist.

Option 1 – In-Clinic Blood Draw

1. Select your nearest UK clinic and book an appointment.
2. A clinician or phlebotomist collects a venous blood sample.
3. The sample is analysed for beta-D-glucan levels.
4. Results are delivered securely online.

Option 2 – Home or Hotel Phlebotomy (+£60)

1. Book a UK-wide home or hotel visit at a convenient time.
2. A trained phlebotomist collects your blood sample on-site.
3. The sample is transported to the laboratory.
4. Results are uploaded digitally without the need to travel.

Your Results Explained

Negative / Low Levels

Low beta-D-glucan levels suggest no evidence of invasive fungal infection at the time of testing.
This does not fully exclude infection and clinical correlation is required.
Typical UK cut-off: <60 pg/mL.

Borderline Levels

Intermediate results may indicate early infection or non-specific elevation.
Repeat testing and further investigation may be recommended.

High Levels

Elevated beta-D-glucan levels suggest invasive fungal infection.
Results must be interpreted alongside symptoms, imaging and other microbiological tests.