Candida albicans detection by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in serum/plasma
This test checks for the presence of *Candida albicans*, a type of yeast that can cause infections, by analyzing a small sample of your blood.
["It helps diagnose invasive fungal infections when other tests are inconclusive."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 105886-6
- Short code
- CANDPCR
- Synonyms
- C albicans DNA Vag Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile container or nucleic acid transport medium (e.g., Aptima vaginal swab transport tube, Copan ESwab, or similar molecular transport device)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- female
- Age range
- 12–99 years
- Method
- Nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT), typically real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR)
- CPT
- 87798 (infectious agent detection by nucleic acid, not otherwise specified) or 87481 (Candida species, amplified probe technique)
- SNOMED
- 122450008 | Candida albicans investigation (procedure) or 609328004 | Detection of Candida albicans (procedure)
- Specimen volume
- 1 vaginal swab (flocked or polyester swab)
- Stability
- Room temperature: 24-48 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days (varies by transport medium manufacturer)
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is This Test Measuring?
The test detects genetic material (DNA) from *Candida albicans* using PCR, a highly sensitive method that amplifies tiny amounts of DNA for detection. This is different from traditional blood cultures, which focus on growing the organism in a lab.
Why Might You Need This Test?
You may receive this test if you have symptoms of a fungal infection (e.g., fever, persistent mouth/throat sores) or risk factors like weakened immunity, recent surgery, or prolonged use of broad-spectrum antibiotics.
When Might Results Be Abnormal?
Positive results suggest *Candida albicans* is present in your blood, which could indicate invasive candidiasis (a serious infection). Negative results mean no detectable DNA from this yeast, but other causes of symptoms may still exist.
What Does This Test Tell You About My Health?
While this test confirms the presence of *Candida albicans*, it does not measure infection severity or guide treatment directly. Results are used alongside clinical findings (e.g., symptoms, lab markers) to guide decisions with your healthcare provider.
Reference range
Negative (no Candida albicans DNA detected). Positive results indicate presence of Candida albicans DNA.N/A
Patient should avoid douching, vaginal creams, suppositories, or sexual intercourse for 24-48 hours prior to specimen collection. Specimen should be collected prior to initiation of antifungal therapy when possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Role in Diagnosis and Monitoring
Short name
Candida PCR (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
How often will I need this test?
What if my results are positive?
Can I take anything 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