Candida albicans DNA in Serum/Plasma by Probe-Based Nucleotide Amplification Test
This test detects genetic material from *Candida albicans*, a type of yeast that can sometimes cause infections. It helps identify if this yeast is present in your blood or plasma.
["This test may help diagnose bloodstream infections caused by *Candida albicans* when other tests are inconclusive."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 90806-1
- Short code
- CALB-DNA
- Synonyms
- C albicans DNA Ser Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile serum separator tube (SST) or red-top tube; transfer serum to a sterile, DNA-free cryovial for molecular testing
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- CPT
- 87481
- SNOMED
- 122501007
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of serum
- Stability
- Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or lower): 30 days; avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
- Hemolysis max
- 2
- Lipemia max
- 2
- Icterus max
- 2
- 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 signs of infection (such as low blood pressure) and have been diagnosed with a fungal infection or weakened immune system. It may also be used if you have a history of invasive procedures that could introduce yeast into your bloodstream.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically needed. Your blood will be drawn from a vein, similar to other blood tests. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause significant discomfort.
What the Test Results Mean
The test looks for genetic material from *Candida albicans* in your blood or plasma. A positive result means the yeast’s DNA was found, which may indicate an infection. A negative result means no detectable DNA was found, but this doesn’t always rule out infection completely.
Possible Limitations
This test is highly sensitive for detecting *Candida albicans* DNA but may not catch all infections. False negatives can occur if the yeast isn’t actively multiplying in your blood at the time of testing. It’s often used alongside other diagnostic tools, such as blood cultures or clinical symptoms.
Reference range
Negative (Candida albicans DNA not detected)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 pathogen DNA load and affect test sensitivity.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Candida DNA Test (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can this test replace a blood culture?
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 15, 2026. · Read our editorial policy