Cryptococcus neoformans Antigen (Latex Agglutination)

1 mL serum or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)

Collect serum from clotted blood in a non-additive tube (e.g. plain red top or serum separator). When possible, transfer clear serum off the clot into a new tube. Excessively hemolyzed samples are not acceptable for this test.

Glass or plastic tube with no anticoagulant additives.

Label all samples with unique identifiers. For multiple samples, number tubes consecutively using a permanent marker or adhesive label. Include a list of sample names/numbers or the Excel specimen import spreadsheet with submittal form. Place the tubes in consecutive, numerical order in cardboard boxes designated for tubes. Do not submit loose in bags. Use cold packs during hot weather, especially if shipping serum samples on the clot. Overnight shipping is recommended.

Samples must be received in the testing lab / location by 3 p.m., 1 business day before the scheduled test day, otherwise samples will be held until the next scheduled test day.