Candida albicans antibody, serum/plasma (qualitative immunoassay)
This test detects antibodies in your blood that may indicate past or current exposure to *Candida albicans*, a type of yeast commonly found in the mouth, gut, or skin. It helps assess immune response to this fungus, which can sometimes cause infections.
["This test helps identify if your body has developed immunity to *Candida albicans* after exposure."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 5074-0
- Short code
- CANDID
- Synonyms
- C albicans Ab Ser Ql ID
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top vacutainer tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 0 years
- Method
- immune-diffusion
- CPT
- 86628
- SNOMED
- 122100008
- Specimen volume
- 1.0 mL serum (minimum 0.5 mL)
- Stability
- Stable at room temperature for 8 hours; refrigerated at 2-8°C for 7 days; frozen at -20°C for up to 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test measures the presence of antibodies (immunoglobulins) produced by your immune system in response to *Candida albicans*. These antibodies are part of your body’s defense mechanism against the yeast. If antibodies are detected, it suggests your immune system has encountered the fungus, though this does not always mean an active infection is present.
Why It Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms suggestive of a fungal infection (e.g., persistent thrush, skin rashes, or recurrent infections), if you’ve recently taken antifungal medications, or if you have a weakened immune system. It can also be used in research or monitoring for certain conditions.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically needed. You may have a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm. If you’re on antifungal medications, let your provider know, as this may affect results.
What the Results Mean
A positive result (detecting antibodies) means your immune system has likely encountered *Candida albicans* at some point. However, this does not confirm an active infection. A negative result suggests no detectable antibodies, meaning either no prior exposure or an immune system that hasn’t mounted a response.
Reference range
Negative: No precipitins detected; Positive: Precipitins detected indicating prior exposure or active infectionN/A
No special patient preparation required. Fasting is not required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
While this test can indicate past exposure to *Candida albicans*, it is not a definitive diagnostic tool for current infections. Positive results may prompt further evaluation (e.g., cultures, imaging) if symptoms persist. It is often used in research or as part of broader diagnostic workups for suspected fungal infections or immune-related conditions.
Short name
Candida Antibody (Qualitative)
Frequently asked questions
Does this test confirm a fungal infection?
Can I stop taking antifungal medications if this test is positive?
Why would my doctor order 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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy