: Candida albicans DNA in Whole Blood, Qualitative, Probe Method
: This test looks for genetic material (DNA) from the yeast Candida albicans in a blood sample. It is used to help detect a Candida albicans infection that has spread into the bloodstream.
[": Detecting Candida albicans DNA in blood can support the diagnosis of an invasive yeast infection."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 70022-9
- Short code
- CANDPCR
- Synonyms
- C albicans DNA Bld Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- EDTA (lavender/purple-top) blood collection tube or sterile nucleic acid amplification tube suitable for molecular diagnostics
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 0 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- CPT
- 87481
- SNOMED
- 122450008
- Specimen volume
- 3-5 mL of whole blood (pediatric: minimum 1 mL)
- Stability
- Room temperature: up to 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): up to 7 days; Frozen (-70°C or below): up to 4 weeks. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 8–72 hours
- Order
- routine
: What This Test Measures
: The test detects DNA from Candida albicans, a common yeast that can sometimes cause infection. The sample is whole blood, and the result is typically reported as detected or not detected (qualitative) rather than as a specific amount.
: Why Your Provider May Order It
: Your healthcare provider may order this test if they suspect a fungal infection has entered the bloodstream, especially if you have a weakened immune system, a central venous catheter, or persistent fever without a clear cause.
: How the Sample Is Collected
: A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm, and sent to the laboratory. The laboratory uses a molecular probe technique to look for C. albicans DNA in the sample.
: What the Results Mean
: A "detected" result suggests C. albicans DNA is present and may support a diagnosis of invasive candidiasis in the right clinical context. A "not detected" result makes infection less likely but does not rule it out entirely. Results should always be interpreted by your provider alongside your symptoms and other tests.
Reference range
Negative (Candida albicans DNA not detected)N/A
No special patient preparation is required. Fasting is not necessary. Specimen should be collected prior to initiation of antifungal therapy whenever possible, as antimicrobial treatment may reduce pathogen DNA levels and yield false-negative results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
: C. albicans DNA (Blood)
Frequently asked questions
: Does a positive result always mean I have an infection?
: Can this test replace a blood culture?
: Do I need to prepare for this test?
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy