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Candida albicans DNA in Blood Probe Test

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test detects genetic material from the yeast *Candida albicans* in your blood, helping identify if an infection is present.

Quick summary

["A blood test to check for *Candida albicans* DNA, useful for diagnosing possible fungal bloodstream infections."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
85781-3
Short code
CANDIDNA
Synonyms
C albicans DNA Bld Pos Ql NAA+n-prb
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Positive blood culture broth bottle (aerobic and/or anaerobic); recommended dedicated blood culture bottles such as BacT/ALERT, BACTEC, or VersaTrek
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
0–120 years
Method
non-probe-amp-tar
CPT
87798 (infectious agent detection by nucleic acid, amplified probe technique, each organism) or 87503 (if reported with multiple targets); verify with current CPT manual
SNOMED
609328004 (Detection of Candida albicans) or 761730000 (Candida albicans DNA detected)
Specimen volume
Varies by blood culture system; typically 8-10 mL of whole blood per bottle for adults, 1-5 mL for pediatric patients. Testing is performed on the broth once the system flags positive.
Stability
Blood culture bottles should be incubated in the instrument immediately after collection. Once flagged positive, the broth specimen is stable for molecular testing for up to 24 hours at room temperature or refrigerated (2-8°C). Refer to specific assay manufacturer instructions for validated stability.
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
1–8 hours
Order
routine

What This Test Measures

The test looks for specific genetic sequences (DNA) linked to *Candida albicans*, a type of yeast that can cause infections in rare cases. This is not a traditional antibody or culture test but uses advanced molecular methods to detect the presence of the organism’s DNA in your bloodstream.

Why It Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of a serious fungal infection (e.g., fever, chills, or signs of sepsis) and have risk factors like weakened immune systems, recent surgeries, or prolonged use of broad-spectrum antibiotics. It helps determine if *Candida* is contributing to your illness.

How the Test Works

A small blood sample is drawn and analyzed using a probe-based molecular technique to detect *Candida albicans* DNA. This method is highly sensitive and can identify the organism even if it’s present in small amounts.

Preparation and Sample Collection

No special preparation is needed. Your blood will be drawn by a healthcare professional, and the sample is processed immediately for analysis. Results are typically available within 24–48 hours.

Reference range

Not Applicable (Presence/Absence test); Negative for Candida albicans DNA indicates no detectable organismN/A

Specimen: whole-blood

No special patient preparation required. Collect blood culture bottles prior to initiation of antimicrobial therapy when possible. Multiple sets from different sites are recommended to differentiate true bacteremia/fungemia from contamination.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Candida DNA Blood Screening

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result indicates that *Candida albicans* genetic material was detected in your blood. This may suggest an active fungal infection, but further testing (like cultures) and clinical evaluation are needed to confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment.
What if my test is negative?
A negative result means no detectable *Candida albicans* DNA was found in your blood sample. However, this does not rule out other causes of your symptoms. If you continue to have concerning signs, your provider may recommend additional testing or monitoring.
Can this test be used for routine screening?
No, this test is not typically used for routine screening. It is reserved for patients with symptoms or risk factors for serious fungal infections, such as those with weakened immune systems or recent invasive procedures.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy