Candida albicans antigen in serum/plasma by immunoassay
This test detects the presence of Candida albicans, a type of fungus that can cause infections in the body. It measures specific antigens found in the blood when the fungus is active.
["Helps identify fungal infections caused by Candida albicans, often used to guide treatment decisions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 110040-3
- Short code
- CANDAG
- Synonyms
- C albicans Ag Msmt Ser
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top tube without anticoagulant
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 0.9
- Critical range
- — – 1.1 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 0 years
- Method
- Enzyme immunoassay (EIA) or chemiluminescent immunoassay (CLIA) for detection of Candida albicans antigen
- CPT
- 87449
- SNOMED
- 3952009
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL serum (minimum 0.5 mL)
- Stability
- Stable at room temperature for 4 hours; refrigerated at 2-8°C for 48 hours; frozen at -20°C or below for up to 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 100
- Icterus max
- 50
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test looks for Candida albicans antigens in your blood, which are proteins or molecules released when the fungus is present and multiplying. This helps determine if you have an active infection caused by this fungus, even if you don’t yet have symptoms.
Why It Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, fatigue, or signs of infection (such as white patches in the mouth or throat) and suspect a fungal infection. It’s also used in people with weakened immune systems, like those with HIV/AIDS, undergoing chemotherapy, or with certain long-term conditions.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is particularly useful for monitoring infections in people at higher risk, such as those with invasive candidiasis (a serious infection that spreads beyond the mouth or throat) or candidemia (fungus in the bloodstream). It can help confirm diagnosis before symptoms worsen.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. A blood sample will be drawn from a vein in your arm, similar to other blood tests. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause discomfort.
Reference range
Negative: <0.9 index (or units as reported by laboratory); Equivocal: 0.9-1.1; Positive: >1.1. Reference values vary by assay manufacturer.N/A
No special patient preparation required. Specimen should be collected prior to initiation of antifungal therapy when possible, as treatment may decrease antigen levels and yield false-negative results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Candida antigen test
Frequently asked questions
How soon will I get my results?
What does a positive result mean?
Can I take anything to lower my risk of false positives?
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