Candida albicans DNA in body fluids (qualitative probe)
This test detects genetic material from *Candida albicans*, a type of yeast that can cause infections in the body. It helps identify if this yeast is present in your blood, urine, or other fluids.
["This test may help diagnose infections caused by *Candida albicans* in hard-to-treat areas like the blood or urine."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 106582-0
- Short code
- CALDNA
- Synonyms
- C albicans DNA Fld Ql NAA+n-prb
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile, leak-proof container without additives; serum separator tube (SST) or plain red-top tube acceptable
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- non-probe-amp-tar
- CPT
- 87481
- SNOMED
- 122330003
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of serum
- Stability
- Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-70°C or below): 3 months. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test looks for specific DNA fragments unique to *Candida albicans* in your bodily fluids. Unlike traditional cultures, this method can detect the yeast more quickly and without growing it in a lab.
Why It’s Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of a fungal infection (e.g., fever, persistent mouth/throat sores) or if you’re at higher risk (e.g., weakened immune system, long-term catheter use).
How the Test Works
A small sample of your blood, urine, or other fluid is taken and analyzed using a molecular probe to detect *Candida albicans* DNA. Results are typically available within days.
Possible Results
A positive result means *Candida albicans* DNA was found, suggesting an infection. A negative result means no DNA was detected in the sample. False positives or negatives can occur, so results should be interpreted by a healthcare provider.
Reference range
Negative (Candida albicans DNA not detected)N/A
No special patient preparation required. Specimen should be collected prior to initiation of antifungal therapy when possible, as antimicrobial agents may reduce organism load and affect detection.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Candida DNA Test (qualitative)
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can this test be used for all types of infections?
How soon will I get my results?
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