False-positive cryptococcal antigen test associated with use of BBL Port-a-Cul transport vials

J Clin Microbiol. 2011 Feb;49(2):702-3. doi: 10.1128/JCM.01169-10. Epub 2010 Dec 15.

Abstract

A total of 52 residual CSF and serum specimens, which were originally negative with the Cryptococcal Antigen Latex Agglutination System (CALAS), were shown to become falsely positive after placement in BBL Port-A-Cul anaerobic transport vials. This transport device, although excellent for specimen transportation for subsequent culture, should not be used if cryptococcal antigen testing is needed.

MeSH terms

  • Antigens, Fungal / blood*
  • Antigens, Fungal / cerebrospinal fluid*
  • Cryptococcosis / diagnosis*
  • Cryptococcus / isolation & purification*
  • False Positive Reactions*
  • Humans
  • Mycology / methods*
  • Specimen Handling / methods*

Substances

  • Antigens, Fungal