Candida albicans DNA in Serum/Plasma Probe (Qualitative)
This test detects genetic material from *Candida albicans*, a type of yeast that can cause infections. It helps identify if this fungus is present in your bloodstream.
["This probe checks for yeast DNA in your blood, useful if you have symptoms of a fungal infection or are at higher risk."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 69562-7
- Short code
- CANDNAA
- Synonyms
- C albicans DNA Vag Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile transport container or nucleic acid amplification test-specific collection device (e.g., Aptima vaginal swab collection kit or equivalent)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- female
- Age range
- ≥ 12 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- CPT
- 87481
- SNOMED
- 122575003
- Specimen volume
- 1 swab (vaginal fluid collected on a polyester or nylon flocked swab)
- Stability
- Room temperature: 24-48 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): up to 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or lower): up to 30 days. Refer to specific assay manufacturer instructions.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test uses a specialized probe to detect genetic material (DNA) from *Candida albicans*, a common yeast that can sometimes cause infections in the blood. This is not a traditional blood test for yeast levels but rather a molecular method to confirm its presence.
Why It Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, chills, or signs of infection (such as organ damage) that could be caused by a fungal bloodstream infection. It’s also used in patients with weakened immune systems, recent surgeries, or long-term medical conditions that increase risk.
How the Test Works
A small blood sample is taken and analyzed using a probe that binds specifically to *Candida albicans* DNA. If the yeast’s genetic material is present, the test will detect it and confirm infection.
What the Results Mean
A positive result means *Candida albicans* DNA was found in your blood, suggesting a possible fungal bloodstream infection. A negative result means no detectable DNA was found, but this doesn’t rule out infection entirely if the sample was insufficient or the yeast was cleared by treatment.
Reference range
Negative for Candida albicans DNA. Positive results indicate detection of Candida albicans nucleic acid.N/A
Patient should avoid vaginal douching, intercourse, and use of vaginal medications or contraceptives for at least 24-48 hours prior to specimen collection. The patient should not be menstruating at the time of specimen collection if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Candida DNA Probe (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
A negative result means no detectable *Candida albicans* DNA was found in this sample. However, infections can sometimes be missed if the yeast is cleared by treatment or if the sample was insufficient. Follow-up testing or clinical evaluation may still be needed.
No, this probe is specific to *Candida albicans* DNA. It does not detect other types of yeast or bacteria. If other infections are suspected, different tests would be used.
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