Candida albicans quantitative blood culture (with species identification)
This test checks for the presence of *Candida albicans*, a type of yeast that can cause infections in the bloodstream. It helps doctors determine if you have a serious bloodstream infection caused by this fungus.
["A positive result may indicate a fungal blood infection requiring urgent medical attention."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 102202-9
- Short code
- CANDIGE
- Synonyms
- C albicans IgE RAST
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) - gold top; Red top tube acceptable; transfer serum to sterile cryovial for frozen storage
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.35
- Ref high
- 0.7
- Critical range
- — – 500 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–99 years
- Method
- Radioallergosorbent test (RAST) - solid-phase immunoassay using radiolabeled anti-IgE antibodies to detect specific IgE antibodies against Candida albicans allergens
- CPT
- 86003
- SNOMED
- 395141000119104
- Specimen volume
- 0.5-1.0 mL serum (minimum 0.3 mL)
- Stability
- Room temperature: 8 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 100
- Icterus max
- 50
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
This test involves drawing blood and growing it in a controlled environment to detect *Candida albicans* organisms. If the yeast is present, it will grow and can be identified through laboratory methods. The test does not measure yeast levels directly but confirms infection by detecting its presence.
How the Test Works
Blood is collected and placed in special containers that support fungal growth. Over time, if *Candida albicans* is present, it will multiply and can be identified by microscopic examination or further testing. Results are reported as either positive (growth detected) or negative (no growth).
When You Might Need This Test
Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms of a fungal infection, such as fever, chills, or signs of infection in other parts of the body, especially if you have a weakened immune system or recent surgery. It is also used in monitoring patients with known fungal infections.
Preparation for the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a blood draw at a clinic, hospital, or lab. If you are on certain medications or have a history of blood infections, your doctor may advise additional precautions.
Reference range
Negative: <0.35 kU/L; Equivocal: 0.35-0.70 kU/L; Positive: >0.70 kU/L. Results expressed as Presence (Detected/Not Detected) or class score (Class 0-6)N/A
No special preparation required. Patient should inform clinician of all current medications, especially antihistamines (which generally do not affect IgE testing), recent immunotherapy, or immunosuppressive therapy that may influence results
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Candida blood culture
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor order this test?
What does a positive result mean?
How long does it take to get 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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy