Cryptococcal Antigen- LA Test Cost & Procedure

Cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) is a test that detects the presence of a specific antigen in the blood or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of individuals who may have a Cryptococcus infection. Cryptococcus is a type of fungus that can cause a range of infections in humans, from mild respiratory infections to severe meningitis.

The CrAg test is used to screen for Cryptococcus infections, particularly in individuals who are at high risks, such as those with HIV/AIDS or other immunocompromising conditions. The test is particularly important for diagnosing cryptococcal meningitis, which is a serious and potentially fatal form of meningitis caused by Cryptococcus.

The CrAg-LA test (latex agglutination) is a type of CrAg test that uses latex particles coated with specific antibodies to detect the presence of Cryptococcus antigens. The test is rapid and can be performed on blood or CSF samples. A positive result indicates the presence of Cryptococcus antigens and suggests the possibility of a Cryptococcus infection, while a negative result indicates the absence of antigens and makes the infection less likely.

The CrAg-LA test is considered a reliable and cost-effective tool for screening individuals at risk of Cryptococcus infections and for monitoring patients with established infections. Treatment for cryptococcal infections usually involves antifungal medications and is more effective when the infection is detected early.

Why is Cryptococcal antigen- LA done?

The Cryptococcal antigen-LA test (CrAg-LA) is done to diagnose or screen for Cryptococcus infections, particularly cryptococcal meningitis, which is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. Cryptococcus is a type of fungus that can cause a range of infections in humans, from mild respiratory infections to severe meningitis.

The test is especially important for individuals who have a weakened immune system, such as those with HIV/AIDS, organ transplant recipients, or those receiving chemotherapy. These individuals are at a higher risk of developing cryptococcal infections, and the infection can spread quickly in their weakened state.

The CrAg-LA test is a rapid and cost-effective tool that detects the presence of Cryptococcus antigens in the blood or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). A positive result indicates the possibility of a Cryptococcus infection, while a negative result suggests the infection is less likely.

Early diagnosis of a Cryptococcus infection is critical for successful treatment with antifungal medications. Therefore, the CrAg-LA test is an important tool for healthcare providers in the diagnosis and management of Cryptococcus infections, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems.

Sample type required for Cryptococcal antigen- LA

The Cryptococcal antigen- LA (CrAg-LA) test can be performed on various types of samples, including blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).

For the blood test, a healthcare provider will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm using a needle and syringe.

For the CSF test, a healthcare provider will perform a lumbar puncture or spinal tap to collect a sample of the cerebrospinal fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. The sample is collected using a thin needle that is inserted into the lower back. The CSF sample is then sent to a laboratory for testing.

In some cases, both blood and CSF samples may be collected to test for Cryptococcus antigens. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate sample type based on your circumstances and symptoms.

Cost of Cryptococcal antigen- LA

The cost of Cryptococcal antigen- LA near me in Delhi starts at INR 2000