Cryptococcus antigen

The detection of Cryptococcus neoformans antigen (see Cryptococcus below) in the CSF is considered a sensitive, specific sign of Cryptococcus meningitis (the antigen -GXM = major capsular polysaccharide, an antigenically active capsule polysaccharide, can be detected in approx. 89% of patients suffering from the disease). In the case of a positive CSF result, antigens are also detectable in the serum to about 50%.

Isolated antigen detection in serum is highly likely to indicate an extrameningeal infection.

Increasing antigen titers are interpreted as an indication of a progression of the infection with an unfavourable prognosis. Successful antifungal therapy results in a decrease in antigen titer.

Repeated examinations in intervals of 7-10 days increase the diagnostic certainty and allow clinical follow-up.

Weinbergerova B et al.(2017)Serological Approaches. Methods Mol Biol.1508:209-221.