Alberta Precision Laboratories

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Organization:	Alberta Precision Laboratories

Test Name/Synonym:	Cryptococcal antigen (Synonym: Cryptococcus neoformans, Cryptococcus gattii, Cryptococcosis, Cryptococcal meningitis, CrAg, Fungal meningitis)
Ordering Alert:	*Clearly indicate on order/requisition if suspecting Cryptococcus gattii* (a Risk-Group 3 fungus).**

LABID (Connect Care):	LAB4072

Specimen Type:	Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Blood
Primary Container:	CSF: sterile screw-cap tube Blood: GOLD SST
Alternate Containers:	Blood: Red top tube
Minimum Collection Volume:	1.0 mL CSF 5.0 mL blood in GOLD SST, or 1.0 mL serum
Stability and Storage:	CSF specimens: Store and transport at room temperature Do NOT refrigerate Serum specimens: If specimen can be transported to the testing lab within 72 hours, store and transport at 2-8°C If specimen cannot be transported to the testing lab within 72 hours, freeze at -20°C and transport on dry ice
Processing:	CSF specimens: Laboratory staff - add internal lab comment on any specimens showing obvious hemolysis, lipemia or turbidity
Transportation:	CSF specimens: Transport to the hospital laboratory immediately after collection (within 15 minutes), for transport to the testing laboratory CSF specimens must be transported STAT to the testing lab Serum specimens: Transport by routine courier
Testing Area:	Microbiology

Performing Site:	Calgary Diagnostic and Scientific Centre (for Calgary and South Zones) Edmonton Base Lab (for Edmonton, Central and North Zones)
Additional Test Information:	For culture of other specimen types/sources, refer to Fungal Culture Notes: Cryptococcal antigen testing is performed on all CSF specimens that are submitted for fungal culture, if specimen volume allows. Cryptococcal antigen titres will be performed on first positive specimens (CSF and serum). On subsequent specimens the Cryptococcal antigen titre will then only be performed after a 6-month period. If a titre is required <6 months from the first titre, consult with the Microbiologist on-call. Monitoring Cryptococcal antigen titres should not be used as a test of cure or to guide treatment decisions. Titres may persist for extended periods of time following appropriate therapy and resolution of infection. The Cryptococcal antigen test has been validated at the Calgary Diagnostic & Scientific Centre and Edmonton Base Lab. The assay is US FDA approved but not Health Canada approved. Results should be interpreted in the clinical context

Last Updated On:	Tuesday, January 14, 2025

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