Candida albicans antibody, serum (immunoassay)
This blood test measures antibodies to *Candida albicans*, a common yeast found in the mouth, gut, and skin. It helps assess immune response to this fungus, which can cause infections in some people.
["This test helps doctors check if your body is producing antibodies against *Candida albicans*."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 51539-5
- Short code
- CANDG
- Synonyms
- C albicans IgG Ser Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top tube with clot activator
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 1
- Ref high
- 2
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA) or Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA) for detection of Candida albicans IgG antibodies
- CPT
- 86628
- SNOMED
- 313310009
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL serum (minimum 0.5 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
- 2
- Lipemia max
- 3
- Icterus max
- 2
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms of a fungal infection (e.g., persistent mouth sores, skin rashes, or recurrent yeast infections) or if you’re at higher risk, such as having a weakened immune system (e.g., from HIV, chemotherapy, or diabetes). It may also be used to monitor chronic conditions like candidiasis.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re on blood-thinning medication, let your provider know beforehand.
What the Results Mean
Positive results indicate your immune system has detected *Candida albicans* antibodies, which may suggest past exposure or infection. However, false positives can occur, so results are often interpreted alongside clinical symptoms and other tests.
Common Causes of Positive Results
Positive results can stem from past infections, chronic candidiasis, or immune system responses unrelated to *Candida*. Rarely, it may indicate an overactive immune reaction (autoimmune conditions).
Reference range
Negative: No detectable Candida albicans IgG antibodies. Positive: Detectable Candida albicans IgG antibodies indicating past exposure or systemic candidiasis. Equivocal: Repeat testing recommended in 1-2 weeks.N/A
No special preparation required. Fasting is not necessary. Patients on antifungal therapy may have reduced antibody titers.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is primarily a screening tool to identify immune responses to *Candida albicans*. While it doesn’t confirm an active infection, it can guide further evaluation (e.g., cultures, imaging) if symptoms persist. Results should be discussed with your provider to determine next steps.
Short name
Candida Antibody Test
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean for my health?
Can this test be used to diagnose a current infection?
How often should I get 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 15, 2026. · Read our editorial policy