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HelpTest Code CPAS Cryptococcus Antigen
Clinical Indications
Test Method: Lateral Flow Assay
Used as aid in diagnosis of cryptococcosis or monitoring antigen in
serum
Additional Test Codes
Epic Order Code: Cryptococcus Antigen (aka CPA AG Screen, Serum)
Sunquest Order Code: CPAS
Px Order Code: LAB2175
Specimen Collection Type
Serum
Preferred: Gold top (SST gel
separator)
Acceptable: Red top (serum tube)
Allow blood to clot at room temp (18-24°C). Serum should be
separated from the clot ASAP to minimize
hemolysis.
Minimum Collection Volume
1 mL
Reference Range
Negative
Critical Value
Positive
Interpretation
The presence of cryptococcal antigen is indicative of
cryptococcosis. If the initial screen is positive, a titer will be
performed.
Titers are reported as the reciprocal, eg, a titer of 1:80 will be
reported as 80.
Low level titers (eg, 1:5) may be falsely positive and should be
interpreted with caution, particularly in patients without other
evidence of cryptococcal infection. This test should not be used to
screen asymptomatic patients.
A negative cryptococcal antigen test does not exclude the diagnosis
of cryptococcosis.
Low level positive titers may persist for extended periods of time
following appropriate therapy and resolution of infection;
monitoring titers should not be used as a test of cure or to guide
treatment decisions.
Rejection Criteria
Gross hemolysis
Gross lipemia
Specimen Availability for Add-on Testing
N/A
Specimen Stability
7 days at 2-8°C
14 days at -20°C
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Saturday
Performing Lab- Department
TUKHS-BH-Microbiology
CPT Code
86403
LOINC Code
31790-9
Test Alias
N/A
Additional Information / Notes
N/A