Focus Diagnostics, Inc. (previously known as Focus Technologies) have announced that the U.S. Patent Office has issued a patent for Focus’ method of making and using oxidized fungal antigens. This proprietary method of producing fungal antigens, which reduces antibody cross-reactivity and improves test specificity, is the basis for Focus’ ELISA detection assay for antibodies to Histoplasma capsulatum.

The Focus fungal ELISA total antibody test for Histoplasma capsulatum is available as an in vitro diagnostic test kit. Focus also performs referral testing using Histoplasma DxSelect™ in their infectious disease reference laboratory.

A second fungal ELISA test for Coccidioides immitis is currently in development and will be available in Summer, 2005.