Candida albicans in blood culture (qualitative)
This test checks for the presence of *Candida albicans*, a type of yeast, in your blood. It helps identify infections caused by this fungus.
["A positive result may indicate a fungal bloodstream infection requiring urgent medical attention."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 7173-8
- Short code
- CANDHIST
- Synonyms
- C albicans BasoBnd Ab Qn
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Heparinized whole blood tube (green top) or EDTA tube (lavender top) depending on laboratory methodology
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 5–99 years
- Method
- Basophil activation test (flow cytometry) or histamine release assay
- CPT
- 86003
- SNOMED
- 39579001
- Specimen volume
- 5-10 mL whole blood
- Stability
- Specimen should be processed within 4-6 hours of collection. Store at room temperature (18-25°C) if processing is delayed. Do not refrigerate as this may affect basophil viability.
- Hemolysis max
- 2
- Lipemia max
- 3
- Icterus max
- 2
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test detects *Candida albicans* organisms in a sample of your blood. Blood cultures are drawn from a vein or other blood vessel and sent to a lab where they are incubated to grow any yeast or bacteria present. If *Candida albicans* is found, it confirms a fungal infection.
How the Test Is Performed
You’ll have a small needle inserted into your vein (usually in your arm) to draw blood. The sample is placed in a special container that supports the growth of microbes. Results are typically available within 3–5 days, depending on lab methods.
Why It’s Done
Doctors order this test if you have symptoms like fever, chills, or unexplained infections—especially if you have a weakened immune system, recent surgery, or a medical condition increasing your risk of fungal infections.
What to Expect After the Test
After the blood draw, you may feel slight bruising or discomfort at the site. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for a few hours. If you develop signs of infection (redness, swelling, or fever), contact your provider.
Reference range
Negative: No significant histamine release detected. Positive results reported as percentage of total histamine release or units per volume. Reference values vary by laboratory methodology.N/A
No fasting required. Patient should avoid antihistamine medications for 5-7 days prior to testing as they may interfere with results. Corticosteroids and leukotriene modifiers may also need to be discontinued per ordering physician guidance.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Candida blood culture
Frequently asked questions
If *Candida albicans* is found, it means you likely have a bloodstream fungal infection. This requires immediate medical evaluation, including possible antifungal treatment. Untreated infections can spread to other organs, leading to severe illness or death.
A positive result confirms the presence of *Candida albicans* in your blood, indicating a fungal infection. Your doctor will work with you to determine the best treatment, which may include antifungal medications.
While you can’t always prevent fungal infections, maintaining good hygiene, avoiding excessive antibiotic use, and managing chronic conditions (like diabetes) can lower your risk. If you’re immunocompromised, follow your doctor’s advice for infection prevention.
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