Candida albicans quantitative culture from cerebrospinal fluid
This test checks for the presence of *Candida albicans*, a type of yeast, in your cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). It helps determine if an infection (meningitis or another brain/spinal cord infection) is caused by this fungus.
["Identifies potential fungal infection in your nervous system fluids."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 33461-5
- Short code
- CANDAB
- Synonyms
- C albicans Ab CSF Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile, leak-proof, screw-cap polypropylene cryovial or conical tube; sterile CSF collection tubes
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 0 years
- Method
- Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA) or Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA) for detection of Candida albicans antibodies in cerebrospinal fluid
- CPT
- 86628
- SNOMED
- 122460008
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of cerebrospinal fluid
- Stability
- Refrigerated (2-8°C): up to 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or lower): up to 4 weeks; Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like severe headaches, neck stiffness, fever, confusion, or neurological issues that could suggest meningitis or another brain/spinal cord infection. It’s also used in monitoring patients with weakened immune systems or those who’ve received treatments that lower immunity.
How the Test Works
A small sample of your CSF is collected via a procedure called a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). The sample is then sent to a lab where it’s cultured to grow any yeast (like *Candida albicans*) over time. If the yeast grows, it confirms the presence of infection.
Sample Collection & Preparation
The procedure involves inserting a needle into your lower back to collect CSF. You may feel pressure or mild discomfort, but it’s usually quick. The sample is immediately sent to the lab for culture, which can take days to weeks to produce results.
What to Expect Before or After
No special preparation is needed. After the procedure, you may experience mild soreness or headache, which can be managed with rest and over-the-counter pain relievers. Avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours.
Reference range
Negative (No Candida albicans antibodies detected)N/A
No special patient preparation required. Inform the ordering physician of any current antifungal therapy, recent antibiotic use, or immunocompromised status prior to specimen collection.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Candida CSF Culture
Frequently asked questions
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
What If My Results Are Negative?
How Often Is This Test Repeated?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy