Candida albicans antigen in serum/plasma (qualitative immunoassay)
This test checks for the presence of *Candida albicans*, a type of yeast that can cause infections, in your blood. It helps determine if you have a systemic fungal infection.
["This test helps doctors identify if *Candida* yeast has spread beyond the mouth or skin into your bloodstream."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 22163-0
- Short code
- CANDAB
- Synonyms
- C albicans Ab Ser-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top clot tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 80
- Ref high
- 1
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA) / Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA)
- CPT
- 86628
- SNOMED
- 43817-4
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL serum (minimum 0.5 mL)
- Stability
- Room temperature: 8 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 200
- Icterus max
- 50
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, chills, or unusual fatigue, especially after a recent medical procedure (such as surgery or a catheter insertion) that could allow yeast to enter your blood. It’s also used in people with weakened immune systems, like those with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or taking long-term steroids.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. The test is usually done in a lab, and results are typically available within a few days.
What the Results Mean
A positive result means *Candida albicans* was detected in your blood, which could indicate a serious infection. A negative result means no detectable yeast was found, but other causes of symptoms may still need investigation.
Common Causes of False Results
False negatives can occur if the infection is mild or not actively spreading. False positives are rare but may happen if you have recent exposure to *Candida* (e.g., dental work) or certain medications.
Reference range
Negative: <1:80 titer or <10 U/mL; Equivocal: 1:80-1:160; Positive: >1:160 titer or >20 U/mL. Reference ranges vary by laboratory and assay methodology.N/A
No special preparation required. Fasting is not necessary.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Candida antigen blood test
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean for my health?
Can this test detect all types of yeast infections?
How often should I get this test?
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 15, 2026. · Read our editorial policy