Candida albicans qualitative blood culture (qualitative detection of *Candida albicans* organisms)
This test checks for the presence of *Candida albicans*, a type of yeast that can sometimes cause infections in the blood.
["A positive result may indicate a fungal bloodstream infection requiring medical evaluation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 26413-5
- Short code
- CANDG4
- Synonyms
- C albicans IgG4 Qn
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.05
- Ref high
- 0.1
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA)
- CPT
- 86645
- SNOMED
- 39513008
- Specimen volume
- 1.0 mL serum (minimum 0.5 mL)
- Stability
- Stable for 7 days at 2-8°C; for longer storage, freeze at -20°C or below. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 100
- Icterus max
- 50
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test detects *Candida albicans* organisms in your blood using a blood culture method. Blood samples are grown in special media to identify and confirm the presence of yeast if an infection is suspected.
When You Might Need This Test
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, chills, or signs of infection (e.g., skin sores, persistent mouth sores) and have risk factors for fungal bloodstream infections, such as weakened immune systems, recent surgeries, or use of broad-spectrum antibiotics.
Preparation for the Test
No special preparation is needed. A blood sample will be drawn from a vein, typically in your arm, by a healthcare professional.
What to Expect After the Test
Results may take several days to a week, as blood cultures require incubation to grow and identify microorganisms. You may be asked to return for follow-up if your symptoms persist or if further testing is needed.
Reference range
Negative: <0.05 Units/mL; Equivocal: 0.05-0.10 Units/mL; Positive: >0.10 Units/mLN/A
No special patient preparation required. Specimen collection is not affected by recent food intake.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Candida albicans blood culture (qualitative)
Frequently asked questions
Why was I asked to take this test?
How long will it take to get my results?
Can I take antibiotics before the 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 15, 2026. · Read our editorial policy