Latex Agglutination (LA) Test

The LATEX-CRYPTOCOCCUS ANTIGEN TEST is a simple, sensitive test capable of detecting C. neoformans polysaccharide antigens in serum and CSF, and is superior in sensitivity to the India Ink mount. Clinical studies established the prognostic value of the test and showed it to be a valuable aid in establishing a diagnosis when the culture was negative. C. neoformans antigens were present in both serum and CSF in 86% of 330 confirmed cases of cryptococcal meningitis. Antigen was detected in CSF specimens in 99% of these 330 cases but in only 87% of serum samples alone. Paired serum and CSF specimens allowed detection of the antigen in each confirmed case. Parallel serologic studies for both antigen (REF CR1003, CR1004, & CR1005) and antibody (REF YA1001) are recommended to ensure detection of extrameningeal cryptococcosis.

Yeast Agglutination (YA) Test for Antibodies to Cryptococcus neoformans

A positive antibody test result is presumptive evidence of recent or past infection with C. neoformans, but could also reflect a crossreaction (e.g. Histoplasma capsulatum and/or Blastomyces dermatitidis). Antibodies may be detected early in the disease and in localized infections. As disease progresses, capsular polysaccharide antigen is produced and released into body fluids with concurrent complexation or suppression of antibody. The antibody test has prognostic value. In immunocompetent patients, effective therapy results in a decline in the antigen titer, and antibodies may become demonstrable. Antibody may persist for long periods even after cessation of therapy. A negative reaction does not exclude a diagnosis of cryptococcosis.

Agglutination titers of 1:2 or greater are suggestive of infection by C. neoformans. Titers >1:16 are rarely noted. In immunocompetent patients, YA-CRYPTOCOCCUS ANTIBODY TUBE AGGLUTINATION SYSTEM has a specificity of about 89-95% and a sensitivity of about 50%. Patients with extrameningeal cryptococcosis have positive tests for antigen or antibody approximately 97% of the time. Therefore, the concomitant use of antigen (REF CR1003, CR1004, & CR1005) and antibody (REF YA1001) tests is recommended.

Latex Agglutination (LA)

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Yeast Agglutination (YA)

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