Test Code II INDIA INK

Methodology

Direct Microscopic Examination

Useful for detecting the presence of encapsulated yeasts.

Container/Tube: Sterile tube(s)-Anticoagulant tube is not acceptable.

Specimen Volume: 2 mL (minimum volume: 0.5 mL) of CSF

Collection Instructions:

1. Aseptically collect 1 mL to 2 mL of CSF from lumbar puncture. Contamination with normal flora from skin or other body surfaces must be avoided.

2. Divide CSF into 1 to 4 screw-capped, sterile tubes.

3. Tubes should be numbered in order of draw 1, 2, 3, 4 with tube #1 representing first portion of specimen collected.

4. Promptly hand deliver to laboratory. (Do not send in pneumatic tube system).

Monday through Sunday

Negative (indicating the absence of encapsulated yeast)

Critical value (automatic call-back): positive

Note: The presence of a capsule does not confirm the presence of a Cryptococcus species nor does the absence of a capsule rule out this genus.

Logan Health Medical Center Laboratory

87210

Ambient/Refrigerate NO/Frozen NO