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Test Code PLFA Cryptococcus Antigen Screen, Lateral Flow Assay, Pleural Fluid

Reporting Name

Cryptococcus Ag Screen, LFA, PF

Performing Laboratory

Mayo Clinic Laboratories in Rochester

Useful For

Diagnosis of infection with Cryptococcus species

Method Name

Lateral Flow Assay (LFA)


Additional Testing Requirements


Pleural fluid testing for cryptococcal antigen should also be submitted for routine fungal culture. Order FGEN / Fungal Culture, Routine.



Specimen Required


Container/Tube: Sterile vial

Specimen Volume: 0.5 mL


Specimen Type

Pleural Fluid

Specimen Minimum Volume

0.25

Specimen Stability Information

Specimen Type Temperature Time Special Container
Pleural Fluid Refrigerated (preferred) 21 days
  Frozen  30 days

Reject Due To

All specimens will be evaluated at Mayo Clinic Laboratories for test suitability.

Reference Values

Negative

Interpretation

The presence of cryptococcal antigen in pleural fluid is indicative of infection with Cryptococcus species.

 

Monitoring cryptococcal antigen levels as a means to determine response to therapy is discouraged, as antigen levels may persist despite adequate treatment and disease resolution.

 

A negative result indicates lack of infection; however, rare cases of false-negative results have been reported. Fungal culture should always be ordered alongside antigen testing.

Day(s) Performed

Monday through Sunday

Report Available

Same day/1 to 2 days

Test Classification

This test has been modified from the manufacturer's instructions. Its performance characteristics were determined by Mayo Clinic in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements. This test has not been cleared or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration.

CPT Code Information

87899-Cryptococcus Ag Screen, LFA, PF

87899-Cryptococcus Ag Titer, LFA, PF (if appropriate)

LOINC Code Information

Test ID Test Order Name Order LOINC Value
PLFA Cryptococcus Ag Screen, LFA, PF 29533-7

 

Result ID Test Result Name Result LOINC Value
42396 Cryptococcus Ag Screen, LFA, PF 29533-7

Forms

If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send Infectious Disease Serology Test Request (T916) with the specimen.

Testing Algorithm

If this screen is positive, the antigen titer will be performed at an additional charge.

Reflex Tests

Test ID Reporting Name Available Separately Always Performed
PLFAT Cryptococcus Ag Titer, LFA, PF No No