Skip to content

Candida albicans antibody titer (serum/plasma)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 15, 2026

This test measures the level of antibodies against *Candida albicans*, a type of yeast commonly found in the mouth, gut, and skin. It helps identify if your immune system has detected and responded to this fungus.

Quick summary

["This test helps determine if you may have been exposed to *Candida albicans* or if your body is fighting an infection."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 15, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
68948-9
Short code
CANDAB
Synonyms
C albicans Ab Titr Ser IF
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top clot tube
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
1
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
Immunofluorescence (IFA)
CPT
86628
SNOMED
46244006
Specimen volume
1.0 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
300
Icterus max
20
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

What Does This Test Measure?

The test looks for specific antibodies in your blood that your immune system produces in response to *Candida albicans*. Antibodies are proteins that help your body recognize and fight infections. This test is not used to diagnose an active infection but can indicate past exposure or immune response.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like persistent mouth or throat infections, skin rashes, or other signs of fungal exposure, especially if you have a weakened immune system (e.g., from HIV, chemotherapy, or other conditions). It can also be part of monitoring for certain chronic conditions.

How Is the Test Performed?

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it is tested for the presence of antibodies against *Candida albicans*. The results are compared to a reference range to determine if antibodies are present.

What Do the Results Mean?

A positive result means your body has produced antibodies against *Candida albicans*, suggesting past exposure or an immune response. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found. Results alone do not confirm an active infection and should be interpreted by your healthcare provider in the context of your symptoms and medical history.

Reference range

Negative: <1:10 titer; Titers ≥1:80 may suggest systemic candidiasis in immunocompromised patientsN/A

Specimen: serum

No special patient preparation required. Fasting is not necessary.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Candida antibody titer

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results from this test?
Results from this test are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing schedule. Your healthcare provider will contact you once the results are ready.
Can this test be used to diagnose a fungal infection?
No, this test cannot diagnose an active *Candida albicans* infection. It only measures antibodies, which indicate past exposure or immune response. For diagnosing an infection, other tests like culture or microscopy are needed.
Is there anything I should do to prepare for this blood test?
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have some mild discomfort from the needle, but it usually goes away quickly. If you are on blood-thinning medication, let your healthcare provider know before the test.
  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 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.

Medical Disclaimer

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