Candida albicans quantitative blood culture
This test checks for the presence of *Candida albicans*, a type of yeast that can cause infections in the bloodstream. It helps determine if you have a fungal bloodstream infection.
["A positive result may indicate a serious infection requiring urgent medical attention."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 56151-4
- Short code
- CANDIDA IGA
- Synonyms
- C albicans IgA Ser-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top tube without anticoagulant
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)
- CPT
- 86628
- SNOMED
- 313376005
- Specimen volume
- 1 mL serum
- Stability
- Stable for 7 days at 2-8°C; for longer storage, freeze at -20°C or below
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 48–120 hours
- Order
- routine
What Does This Test Measure?
The test detects the presence of *Candida albicans* yeast cells in your blood. If the culture grows this yeast, it confirms a fungal bloodstream infection.
Why Might You Need This Test?
You may need this test if you have symptoms like fever, chills, or other signs of infection, especially if you have a weakened immune system, recent surgery, or a medical condition that increases your risk of fungal infections.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab where it is cultured to detect the presence of *Candida albicans*. Results take several days to confirm.
What Are Possible Results?
A negative result means no *Candida albicans* was found in your blood sample. A positive result indicates the presence of the yeast, which requires further medical evaluation and treatment.
Reference range
Reference ranges vary by laboratory and assay manufacturer; results should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and other diagnostic tests.N/A
No special patient preparation required. Fasting is not necessary.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive blood culture for *Candida albicans* is clinically significant because it confirms a fungal bloodstream infection. This condition can be life-threatening and requires prompt antifungal treatment. Your healthcare provider will work with you to determine the best course of action, which may include adjusting medications, monitoring for complications, or additional diagnostic tests.
Short name
Candida Blood Culture
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I take antibiotics before 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