Detection of Cryptococcus neoformans Antigen in Body Fluids by Latex Particle Agglutination.

SummaryAntigen of C. neoformans was detected in serum and/or CSF from 7 of 9 cases of CNS cryptococcosis by a rapid, sensitive slide test in which antibody-coated latex particles are agglutinated. The procedure yielded few nonspecific reactions, which were of low degree. Decline in reactivity following treatment suggests that the test has prognostic as well as diagnostic value. Lack of reactivity of blood and CSF from 2 patients was shown not to be attributable to serotype variation.