Cryptosporidiosis, or crypto, is a common intestinal infection caused by the cryptosporidia parasite. The parasite can be found in every region of the United States and throughout the world. The disease causes diarrhea, ranging from mild to severe; in people with compromised immune systems, infection can lead to severe and even life-threatening complications. Cryptosporidium infection can spread through multiple channels, including animal-to-human, person-to-person, and through water; the parasite is a leading causes of waterborne disease outbreaks linked to recreational water like pools.
Read more about how crypto is transmitted, diagnosed, and treated on our Articles page.
The IVD Cryptosporidium Stool Antigen Detection Lateral Flow test kit provides accurate, reliable detection of Cryptosporidium antigens in human stool samples. In the past, Cryptosporidium infection was diagnosed through microscopic examination using stains or fluorescence-labeled antibodies. To be effective, this method required experienced technicians, who have historically been difficult and costly to find and train. Antigen capture lateral flow immunoassays for stool samples were developed as an alternative, rapid way to detect and diagnose Cryptosporidium infection. Lateral flow assays have been shown to be as accurate as microscopic examinations by experienced laboratory technicians; in addition, they are easy to perform and require no specialized training or equipment.
The IVD Cryptosporidium Stool Antigen Detection Lateral Flow test is performed in two steps:
- The sample is diluted using the provided buffer and then added to the sample window on the test device.
- The diluted sample is added to the sample window of the test device and incubated for 10 minutes.
- The diluted sample resolubilizes the anti-Cryptosporidium conjugate contained in the test device.
- The diluted sample and resolubilized conjugate flow across the nitrocellulose membrane and interact with the test line area and the control line area. If Cryptosporidium antigens are present in the sample, they are captured by the anti-Cryptosporidium antibodies in the conjugate and at the test line area.
- The diluted sample and resolubilized conjugate continue to flow across the membrane and form a line in the control line area.
- A sample that is positive for Cryptosporidium will result in a visible line in the test and control line area; this indicates that detectable amounts of Cryptosporidium antigen are present in the sample. If no line forms in the test line area, this indicates either that the sample is negative for Cryptosporidium antigen or that the sample contains Cryptosporidium antigen below detectable levels.
Each test kit contains 20 tests and has up to a 12 month shelf life. Test kits should be stored between 2-8 ˚C. Please contact us for pricing and availability.