Cryptococcal testing
cryptococcal infection, cryptococcal disease, co-infections
While ART is recommended for all persons living with HIV, for participants who have co-infections, ART initiation may be delayed with cryptococcal disease, which is most commonly seen when the CD4 count is ≤100 cells/μL. A point-of-care assay for cryptococcal infection is currently being evaluated and will be included in the screening protocol once it is available to facilitate referral of participants for appropriate evaluation and management. The point-of-care cryptococcal antigen test uses a finger-stick sample of whole blood. Persons who screen positive for cryptococcal antigen will receive their results as part of their referral to the clinic for further evaluation and management.