Candida albicans antigen in serum (qualitative)
This test detects the presence of Candida albicans, a type of yeast that can cause infections, in your blood serum. It helps identify if you have a systemic fungal infection.
["This test checks for yeast infection in your blood, aiding diagnosis of serious fungal illnesses."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 31759-4
- Short code
- CANDAG
- Synonyms
- C albicans Ag Ser-aCnc
- 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
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Enzyme immunoassay (EIA) or latex agglutination for detection of Candida albicans antigen
- CPT
- 87449
- SNOMED
- 122590001
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of serum (minimum 0.5 mL)
- Stability
- Serum stable for 24 hours at room temperature, 7 days at 2-8°C, and up to 30 days at -20°C or below. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 100
- Icterus max
- 50
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fever, chills, or unexplained infections, especially if you have a weakened immune system (e.g., from HIV, chemotherapy, or other conditions). It’s also used in patients with persistent fever of unknown origin or those who’ve had recent surgeries or medical procedures.
How the Test Works
The test uses an immunoassay method to detect specific antigens from *Candida albicans* in your serum. If the yeast is present, the test can signal a potential infection, though it doesn’t confirm the exact type or severity of the infection.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The serum portion is separated and sent to the lab for testing. This process is quick and typically done in a clinic or hospital setting.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. However, if you’re on certain medications (like antifungals) or have recent infections, your provider may advise adjustments. Always follow their instructions.
Reference range
Negative: No Candida albicans antigen detected. Positive results suggest invasive candidiasis and should be correlated with clinical findings, blood culture results, and other diagnostic parameters.N/A
No special patient preparation is required. Specimen should be collected prior to initiation of antifungal therapy when possible, as antifungal treatment may reduce 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 (serum)
Frequently asked questions
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
Can This Test Detect All Types of Candida Infections?
How Often Should This Test Be Done?
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