Toxoplasma gondii Antibodies (IgG, IgM), ELISA, CSF
Use
This test aids in diagnosing infections of the central nervous system caused by Toxoplasma gondii by detecting intrathecally-produced specific IgG and IgM antibodies in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The presence of these antibodies can indicate an active or past infection of the central nervous system. Importantly, it provides crucial information in the assessment of patients with suspected central nervous system infections, especially in immunocompromised individuals.
Special Instructions
The test requires the collection and submission of CSF in a sterile, plastic screw-cap vial. It is important to refrigerate the specimen immediately after collection and also during shipping to ensure sample integrity for accurate testing. Be mindful about avoiding contamination through bloody taps, as this can affect antibody presence results.
Limitations
Interpretation of the results can be complicated due to potential low antibody levels in the CSF or due to passive transfer of antibodies from the bloodstream. Results might also be affected by the contamination from blood during the sample collection (bloody taps), which can lead to misleading antibody presence. Additionally, false negatives can occur if antibody levels are below detection limits.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (ELISA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 30568-0
- 30569-8
Result Turnaround Time
3-10 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Cerebrospinal Fluid
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Sterile container
Collection Instructions
Submit 1 mL of spinal fluid (CSF) in a sterile, plastic screw-cap vial. Refrigerate specimen after collection and ship at refrigerate temperature.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis, gross lipemia, gross icterus, non CSF specimens, bacterially contaminated specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 7 days |
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 30 days |