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Test ID: CCRYR    
Cryptococcus Antigen, Spinal Fluid

Method Description Describes how the test is performed and provides a method-specific reference

The test for cryptococcal antigen uses latex particles sensitized with rabbit-anticryptococcal globulins to detect circulating antigen of Cryptococcus neoformans.(CALAS Cryptococcal Antigen Latex Agglutination System, Meridian Diagnostics, Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio 45244) When the anticryptococcal globulin-sensitized latex particles come in contact with the polysaccharide antigen of Cryptococcus neoformans in the specimen, agglutination occurs. CSF specimens are tested at dilutions of 1:2, 1:4, 1:8, etc. A drop of detection latex is mixed with the specimen on a slide and rotated for 5 minutes at 125 rpm. The highest titer producing a 2+ or greater reaction is reported. Boiling of CSF prevents false-positive results.(Roberts GD: Fungi. In Laboratory Procedures in Clinical Microbiology. 2nd Edition. Edited by JA Washington II. New York, Springer-Verlag, 1985, pp 419-450)

Day(s) and Time(s) Test Performed Outlines the days and times the test is performed. This field reflects the day and time the sample must be in the testing laboratory to begin the testing process and includes any specimen preparation and processing time required before the test is performed. Some tests are listed as continuously performed, which means assays are performed several times during the day.

Monday through Sunday; 2 p.m.

Analytic Time Defines the amount of time it takes the laboratory to setup and perform the test. This is defined in number of days. The shortest interval of time expressed is "same day/1 day," which means the results may be available the same day that the sample is received in the testing laboratory. One day means results are available 1 day after the sample is received in the laboratory.

Same day/1 day

Maximum Laboratory Time Defines the maximum time from specimen receipt at Mayo Medical Laboratories until the release of the test result

2 days

Specimen Retention Time Outlines the length of time after testing that a specimen is kept in the laboratory before it is discarded

14 days

Performing Laboratory Location The location of the laboratory that performs the test

Rochester