False-positive culture results from patient tissue specimens due to contamination of RPMI medium with Cryptococcus albidus

J Clin Microbiol. 2007 May;45(5):1604-6. doi: 10.1128/JCM.02447-06. Epub 2007 Feb 21.

Abstract

Cryptococcus albidus, a rare opportunist, was isolated from biopsy specimens from three patients over 4 days. An investigation showed that the specimens had been contaminated by placement in RPMI medium. The importance of rapid communication between the microbiology laboratory, the infectious diseases/infection control division, and other involved parties in the event of unusual occurrences is highlighted.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cryptococcosis / diagnosis*
  • Cryptococcus / isolation & purification*
  • Culture Media*
  • False Positive Reactions
  • Humans
  • Laboratories, Hospital / organization & administration
  • Male
  • Middle Aged

Substances

  • Culture Media