Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: July 17, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for Leukocytosis with Increased Serum Beta-D-Glucan Concentration

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Invasive Candidiasis: This condition is characterized by a significant increase in serum beta-D-glucan levels, which is a cell wall component of fungi, including Candida species. Leukocytosis is a common response to invasive fungal infections, making invasive candidiasis a leading consideration given the combination of findings.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Pneumocystis jirovecii Pneumonia (PCP): While more commonly associated with immunocompromised patients, PCP can cause an increase in beta-D-glucan levels due to the fungal nature of the pathogen. Leukocytosis may also be present, especially in severe cases.
  • Aspergillosis: Similar to invasive candidiasis, aspergillosis can cause elevated beta-D-glucan levels. Leukocytosis is a common finding in invasive aspergillosis, particularly in immunocompromised patients.
  • Histoplasmosis: This fungal infection can also lead to increased beta-D-glucan levels and leukocytosis, especially in disseminated disease.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Pseudomonas aeruginosa Infection: Although beta-D-glucan is more specific to fungal infections, certain bacterial infections, including Pseudomonas, can cause false-positive elevations in beta-D-glucan due to the presence of beta-D-glucan-like structures in some bacterial cell walls. Leukocytosis is common in severe bacterial infections.
  • Trichosporonosis: A rare but potentially life-threatening fungal infection that can cause elevated beta-D-glucan levels. It's essential to consider this diagnosis, especially in immunocompromised patients.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Fusariosis: A rare fungal infection that can cause increased beta-D-glucan levels and leukocytosis, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
  • Scedosporiosis: Another rare fungal infection that may present with elevated beta-D-glucan levels and leukocytosis, often in patients with compromised immune systems.
  • Mucormycosis: Although beta-D-glucan levels may not be as consistently elevated as in other fungal infections, mucormycosis is a critical diagnosis to consider due to its high mortality rate, especially in diabetic or immunocompromised patients.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.