Cryptococcus Antigen Titer, Lateral Flow Assay, Pleural Fluid
Use
Diagnosis of infection with Cryptococcus species. The presence of cryptococcal antigen in pleural fluid is indicative of infection with Cryptococcus species. Monitoring cryptococcal antigen levels to determine response to therapy is discouraged, as antigen levels may persist despite adequate treatment and disease resolution. False-positive results may occur in patients with trichosporonosis or Capnocytophaga species; negative results do not preclude infection, especially in at‑risk patients; fungal culture should always accompany antigen testing.
Special Instructions
Only orderable as a reflex following PLFA (Cryptococcus Antigen Screen, Lateral Flow Assay, Pleural Fluid).
Limitations
Negative result does not preclude cryptococcal infection, especially in at‑risk patients. False positives may occur in infections with Trichosporon or Capnocytophaga species. Monitoring antigen levels for treatment response is discouraged since antigen levels may persist despite resolution.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (Lateral Flow Assay)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 11473-6
- 11473-6
Result Turnaround Time
2 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Body Fluid
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.25 mL
Container
Sterile vial
Collection Instructions
Only orderable as a reflex; follow PLFA instructions.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated preferred; can be frozen.
Causes for Rejection
All specimens will be evaluated at Mayo Clinic Laboratories for test suitability.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 21 days |
| Frozen | 30 days |