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Candida albicans IgG antibody (total)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 15, 2026

This test measures your immune system’s response to *Candida albicans*, a type of yeast commonly found in the mouth, digestive tract, and skin. It helps identify past exposure to this fungus, which can sometimes cause infections.

Quick summary

["This test may help assess immune function or detect past exposure to *Candida albicans* without confirming an active infection."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 15, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
61238-2
Short code
CALBIgE
Synonyms
C albicans IgE/IgE total %
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Serum separator tube (SST) with gel barrier; red-top tube without anticoagulant acceptable
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
0.34
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
Fluorescence Enzyme Immunoassay (FEIA) / ImmunoCAP
CPT
86003
SNOMED
395125005
Specimen volume
1.0 mL serum (minimum 0.5 mL)
Stability
Room temperature: 8 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 6 months. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Hemolysis max
100
Lipemia max
100
Icterus max
50
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

What Does This Test Measure?

The test detects antibodies (IgG) your body produces in response to *Candida albicans*. Antibodies are proteins that signal your immune system has encountered the fungus. A positive result suggests you’ve been exposed to *Candida albicans* at some point, but it doesn’t confirm whether an infection is currently active.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Doctors may order this test if you have a weakened immune system (e.g., from HIV, chemotherapy, or other conditions) or if you’ve had symptoms like oral thrush, persistent vaginal yeast infections, or unexplained skin rashes that could be linked to *Candida* overgrowth.

What Does a Positive Result Mean?

A positive result indicates your body has produced antibodies to *Candida albicans*, meaning you’ve likely been exposed to it. However, this doesn’t always mean you have an active infection. It may simply reflect past exposure or a low-level presence of the fungus.

What Does a Negative Result Mean?

A negative result means your body hasn’t produced detectable antibodies to *Candida albicans* at this time. This could mean you’ve never been exposed or that your immune system hasn’t mounted a response recently.

Reference range

Class 0: <0.35 kU/L (Negative/Baseline); Class 1: 0.35-0.69 kU/L (Low); Class 2: 0.70-3.49 kU/L (Moderate); Class 3: 3.50-17.49 kU/L (High); Class 4: 17.50-49.99 kU/L (Very High); Class 5: 50.00-99.99 kU/L (Very High); Class 6: ≥100 kU/L (Very High). Results expressed as ratio of specific IgE to total IgE (% of total IgE).N/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Patient should inform provider of all current medications, including antihistamines and immunosuppressants, as these may affect IgE levels.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Limitations and Considerations

Short name

IgG Antibody to Candida albicans

Frequently asked questions

How often should I get this test?
This test is typically not repeated unless your doctor suspects recent or changing exposure to *Candida albicans* or if your immune status has changed significantly. Results should always be interpreted by your healthcare provider in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
Does this test replace other diagnostic tests for *Candida* infections?
No, this test is not a direct diagnostic tool for active *Candida* infections. If you suspect an infection, your doctor may recommend additional tests, such as cultures of affected tissues or swabs, to confirm the presence of the fungus.
Can I take antibiotics or antifungal medications before this test?
Yes, you may need to avoid certain medications (antibiotics, antifungals, or immune-modifying drugs) for a set period before testing, as they can affect antibody levels. Always follow your doctor’s instructions regarding timing and medication adjustments.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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