Definition of CSF coccidioides complement fixation:

CSF coccidioides complement fixation looks for antibodies to the fungus Coccidioides immitis in the cerebrospinal (CSF) fluid, the fluid surrounding the brain and spine.

How the test is performed:

Complement fixation is a specific laboratory technique that looks to see if the body has produced antibodies to a specific foreign substance (antigen) -- in this case Coccidioides immitis. If the antibodies are present, they stick, or "fix" themselves, to the antigen. That's why the test is called "fixation."

The spinal fluid needed to perform this test is usually obtained by lumbar puncture (spinal tap).

How to prepare for the test:

A consent form must be signed. You will need to remain in the hospital for about 8 hours afterwards, and you should remain lying flat.

How the test will feel:

See: Lumbar puncture

Why the test is performed:

Complement fixation is the most sensitive test for the fungus Coccidioides immitis.