Test ID SPNC Streptococcus pneumoniae Antigen, Spinal Fluid
Useful For
Rapid diagnosis of pneumococcal meningitis
Method Name
Immunochromatographic Membrane Assay
Reporting Name
Streptococcus pneumoniae Ag, CSFSpecimen Type
CSFContainer/Tube: Sterile vial
Specimen Volume: 1 mL
Specimen Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Specimen Stability Information
Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
---|---|---|
CSF | Refrigerated (preferred) | 14 days |
Frozen | 14 days |
Clinical Information
Streptococcus pneumoniae is the most frequently encountered bacterial agent of community acquired pneumonia, and can also be an agent of bacterial meningitis. Because of the significant morbidity and mortality associated with pneumococcal pneumonia, septicemia, and meningitis, it is important to have diagnostic test methods available that can provide a rapid diagnosis. In instances where empirical antibiotics are being considered prior to culture confirmation, antigen testing may be useful.
Note: According to the College of American Pathologists (CAP, IMM.41830), cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples collected to make an initial diagnosis and submitted for detection of Streptococcus pneumoniae antigen testing should also be submitted for routine bacterial culture. Mayo Medical Laboratories recommends that CSF bacterial cultures be performed at the originating site.
Reference Values
Negative
Cautions
A negative result does not exclude Streptococcus pneumoniae infection.
A diagnosis of Streptococcus pneumoniae infection must take into consideration all test results, culture results, and the clinical presentation of the patient.
Streptococcus pneumoniae vaccine may cause false-positive results, especially in patients who have received the vaccine within 5 days of having the test performed.
This assay has not been validated for use with body fluids other than urine or cerebrospinal fluid.
The performance of this assay in patients who have received antibiotics for >24 hours has not been established.
The accuracy of this assay has not been proven in small children.
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Sunday; 12 p.m.
Report Available
Same day/1 dayPerforming Laboratory

Test Classification
This test has been cleared or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and is used per manufacturer's instructions. Performance characteristics were verified by Mayo Clinic in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements.CPT Code Information
87899