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Candida albicans immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody, serum/plasma

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

This test measures the level of antibodies your body produces in response to a yeast called *Candida albicans*, which can cause infections like thrush or systemic fungal infections.

Quick summary

["This test helps assess your immune response to *Candida albicans* and may guide treatment decisions for fungal infections."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
109174-3
Short code
CANDG
Synonyms
C albicans IgG Msmt Ser
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top tube without anticoagulant
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
15
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)
CPT
86628
SNOMED
31321000087101
Specimen volume
1 mL serum (minimum 0.5 mL)
Stability
Stable for 7 days at 2-8°C; for longer storage, freeze at -20°C or below for up to 3 months. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Hemolysis max
100
Lipemia max
300
Icterus max
40
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

What This Test Measures

The test detects the presence of **immunoglobulin G (IgG)** antibodies specific to *Candida albicans*. IgG antibodies are part of your immune system’s long-term defense and can indicate past exposure to the yeast or an ongoing immune response.

Why It Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of a fungal infection (such as persistent mouth or throat soreness, skin rashes, or recurrent yeast infections), if you’ve been treated for a fungal infection in the past, or if you have a weakened immune system (e.g., due to HIV, chemotherapy, or other conditions).

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may have a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm, similar to other blood tests. If you’re on blood-thinning medication, let your provider know before the test.

What to Expect During the Test

The blood sample is sent to a lab for analysis. Results are typically reported as a qualitative (positive/negative) or quantitative measurement of IgG antibodies against *Candida albicans*.

Reference range

Negative: <10 U/mL; Equivocal: 10-15 U/mL; Positive: >15 U/mL. Reference values may vary by laboratory and assay manufacturer.N/A

Specimen: serum

No fasting required. Specimen collection can be performed at any time of day.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A positive result suggests your body has produced antibodies to *Candida albicans*, which may indicate past infection or exposure. However, a positive result alone does not confirm an active infection—other tests (such as fungal cultures) may be needed to diagnose current infection. A negative result means no detectable IgG antibodies were found, which could mean no prior exposure or an immune system that doesn’t recognize the yeast. This test is often used alongside clinical symptoms and other diagnostic tools to guide treatment.

Short name

IgG Antibody to *Candida albicans*

Frequently asked questions

Will this test show if I currently have a fungal infection?
No, this test measures antibodies, not live yeast or active infection. It can help assess past exposure or immune response but is not a direct diagnostic for an active fungal infection. Other tests, like fungal cultures or imaging, are typically needed for diagnosis.
Can I get this test if I’m on antibiotics?
Yes, you can still have this test while on antibiotics. Antibiotics target bacteria, not yeast, so they won’t interfere with this test. However, if you’re taking antifungal medications, discuss this with your provider, as they may affect antibody levels.
What does a high or low IgG antibody level mean?
A high IgG level may indicate past exposure to *Candida albicans* or an immune response to the yeast. A low or absent level suggests no prior exposure or an immune system that may not recognize the yeast. Neither result alone confirms or rules out an active infection—results should be interpreted alongside clinical findings and other tests.
  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