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Test Code LAB927, LAB779 Cryptococcal Antigen, Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) or Serum

Methodology

Lateral Flow Assay

 

Note: 

1. This assay does not differentiate Cryptococcus neoformans from Cryptococcus gattii.

2. For CSF specimens, order LAB927.

3. For serum specimens, order LAB779.

 

Testing Algorithm:

If specimen type is cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) then Mycology (fungal) culture, CSF (LAB7380) will be performed at an additional charge.

 

If assay is positive, titration will be performed to a maximum titer of 1:2560, at an additional charge.

 

Literature Reference:

Package Insert, IMMY, Inc., June, 2019.

Performing Laboratory

Barnes-Jewish Hospital Laboratory

Specimen Requirements

Specimen Type: 
CSF: 1 mL in a sterile container. See CSF Collection Guidelines link under Special Instructions


Serum: 1 plain, red-top tube. 2 mL of serum.
 
Collection Procedure:

Note: Specimen source is required
 
CSF

  1. Aseptically collect >1 mL of CSF.
  2. Place specimen in a leak-proof, screw-capped sterile container.
  3. Maintain sterility and forward to lab promptly.
  4. If transport is delayed, keep specimen at room temperature.
  5. If patient was previously positive for Cryptococcus antigen within past 12 months, do not send additional specimen for testing as results should not be used to monitor treatment.

 
Serum

  1. Draw blood in plain red-top tube.
  2. Maintain sterility and forward to lab promptly.
  3. If transport delayed, keep specimen at room temperature.
  4. If patient was previously positive for Cryptococcus antigen within past 12 months, do not send additional specimen for testing.
     

 

Specimen Transport Temperature

Ambient

Reference Values

Negative for:  Cryptococcus neoformans/Cryptococcus gattii antigen

Day(s) Test Set Up

Monday through Sunday


Turnaround Time:
STAT: not available
Routine: final report within 24 hours of receipt of specimen in the laboratory

Test Classification and CPT Coding

87899

87899-Titer (if required)

Additional Information

For BJH Laboratory Use Only


Minimum Volume: CSF: 0.5 mL in a leakproof screw-capped, sterile container.
Serum: 0.5 mL


Laboratory Processing Instructions:
Test performed in BJH Microbiology.

 

Special Instructions

CSF Collection Guidelines