Laboratory Test Directory

Synonyms: Cryptococcal antigen, C. neoformans antigen

CPT 4 Code: 87327

Applies to: Detection of Cryptococcus antigen in blood and CSF by EIA method

Lab: Serology

Request Form: Microbiology

Collection: Aseptic technique for CSF; routine venipuncture for blood

Storage Instructions: Room temperature. Do not refrigerate

Causes for Rejection: Insufficient quantity, hemolysis, lipemia

Availability: Samples are accepted 24 hours per day at the Microbiology Processing Laboratory, Room 5.137 McCullough.

Turnaround Time: 1-2 days

Special Instructions: Test performed in place of India ink examination. Test is performed daily. Results are reported as positive or negative. Titers are currently being performed by ARUP when screen is positive.

Specimen: CSF or blood

Minimum Volume: 0.5 ml serum or CSF

Container: CSF, sterile container; Blood, Vacutainer, red top

Critical Values: Positive

Test Method: Semi-automated EIA (Meridian)

Revised/reviewed 10/21/2011 by T. Friloux