Cryptococcus Quantitative Test
Short Name: Cryptococcus Quantitative
Also known as: Cryptococcus PCR, Cryptococcal DNA quantification, Cryptococcus quantitative PCR
Cryptococcus Quantitative Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹8,160. Uses Real-Time PCR on Blood, CSF, tissue biopsy, respiratory secretions samples. Results in Reports are available on the 4th working day after sample collection. You will receive an email and WhatsApp notification once the report is ready.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal
Consultant Microbiologist · Reg: 27670
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The purpose of the Cryptococcus Quantitative Test is to detect and quantify Cryptococcus species DNA in clinical samples. It aids in the diagnosis of cryptococcosis, especially in patients with HIV/AIDS, organ transplant recipients, or those on immunosuppressive therapy. The quantitative result helps differentiate between colonization and active infection, monitor treatment efficacy, and detect early relapse. It is also used for screening high-risk patients and for epidemiological studies.
- Test Code
- 6140
- CPT Code
- 87449
- ICD Code
- B45.9
- Price
- ₹8,160
- Sample Type
- Blood, CSF, tissue biopsy, respiratory secretions
- Result Time
- Reports are available on the 4th working day after sample collection. You will receive an email and WhatsApp notification once the report is ready.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Real-Time PCR
Sample Collection
No special preparation required. However, inform your doctor about any antifungal medications you are taking. A consent form must be signed before sample collection.
Method: Venipuncture or lumbar puncture (by healthcare professional)
Laboratory Analysis
Blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. For CSF, a lumbar puncture is performed by a healthcare professional. Tissue biopsy is collected under sterile conditions.
Report Delivery
You may resume normal activities immediately. For CSF collection, lie flat for a few hours as advised by your doctor. Apply pressure to the puncture site to prevent bleeding.
Timeline: Reports are available on the 4th working day after sample collection. You will receive an email and WhatsApp notification once the report is ready.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of the Cryptococcus Quantitative Test is to detect and quantify Cryptococcus species DNA in clinical samples. It aids in the diagnosis of cryptococcosis, especially in patients with HIV/AIDS, organ transplant recipients, or those on immunosuppressive therapy. The quantitative result helps differentiate between colonization and active infection, monitor treatment efficacy, and detect early relapse. It is also used for screening high-risk patients and for epidemiological studies.
How to Prepare
- Ensure proper identification of patient and sample
- Use sterile collection containers
- Label samples with patient name, date, and time of collection
- Transport samples to the laboratory immediately
- Maintain cold chain if required
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"Quantitative Cryptococcus testing is essential for monitoring treatment response and disease progression in immunocompromised patients. Early detection can significantly reduce mortality."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Hemolyzed blood samples
- Improperly labeled samples
- Samples received after prolonged delay
- Insufficient sample volume
Understanding Your Results
No Cryptococcus DNA detected
Active cryptococcal infection is unlikely, but if clinical suspicion remains, consider repeat testing or alternative diagnostics.
Cryptococcus DNA detected at low levels
May indicate early infection or residual disease. Monitor closely and consider antifungal therapy.
Cryptococcus DNA detected at high levels
Suggests active, severe infection. Urgent antifungal therapy and further evaluation for dissemination are required.
Consult your doctor immediately if you have symptoms such as persistent headache, fever, neck stiffness, confusion, or respiratory distress, especially if you are immunocompromised. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical.
Limitations
- ⚠Test cannot differentiate between viable and non-viable organisms
- ⚠Quantification may not correlate with clinical severity in all cases
- ⚠Negative result does not rule out infection if clinical suspicion is high
- ⚠Requires specialized laboratory equipment and trained personnel
Risks & Considerations
- ●Bleeding or bruising at the puncture site
- ●Infection at the collection site
- ●Headache after lumbar puncture
- ●Rarely, nerve damage during lumbar puncture
Interfering Factors
- ●Prior antifungal therapy may reduce fungal DNA levels, leading to false-negative results
- ●Contamination during sample collection can cause false positives
- ●Improper storage or transport may degrade DNA
- ●Low fungal burden in early infection may be below detection limit
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Cryptococcus Quantitative Test | Cryptococcal Antigen (CrAg) Test | India Ink Staining | Fungal Culture |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Cryptococcus Quantitative Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of the Cryptococcus Quantitative Test at DNA Labs India?
What sample is required for the Cryptococcus Quantitative Test?
Do I need to fast before the test?
How long does it take to get the results?
Is home sample collection available?
What does a positive Cryptococcus Quantitative Test mean?
Can this test be used to monitor treatment?
Is this test recommended for HIV patients?
What is the difference between qualitative and quantitative Cryptococcus tests?
Are there any risks associated with sample collection?
Can I take antifungal medications before the test?
How accurate is the Cryptococcus Quantitative Test?
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