Candida albicans in Body Fluids Probe
This test checks for the presence of *Candida albicans*, a type of yeast commonly found in the body. It uses a specialized probe to detect genetic material from this fungus in various body fluids.
["A simple way to identify if *Candida albicans* may be causing an infection."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 76608-9
- Short code
- CALDNA
- Synonyms
- C albicans its # XXX.body fld NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile, DNA-free, leak-proof container (e.g., sterile cryovial or nucleic acid transport tube)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–120 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- CPT
- 87798
- SNOMED
- 122450008
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of body fluid
- Stability
- Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test detects genetic material (DNA) from *Candida albicans* using a molecular probe. This helps identify whether the fungus is present in your body fluids, such as blood, urine, or other samples, even if it’s not causing obvious symptoms yet.
Why It’s Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like persistent mouth sores, unusual vaginal discharge, or signs of a fungal infection (e.g., skin rashes, fever). It’s also used in research or specialized settings to monitor infections in certain conditions.
How the Test Works
The probe targets specific genetic sequences unique to *Candida albicans*. When it binds to these sequences in your body fluids, it confirms the fungus’s presence, helping doctors diagnose infections early or guide treatment decisions.
Common Uses
This test is primarily used in research or advanced diagnostic settings, such as identifying fungal infections in immunocompromised patients or monitoring chronic conditions where yeast overgrowth is a concern.
Reference range
Not detected (Negative). Detection of Candida albicans DNA indicates presence of fungal organism in specimen.N/A
No special patient preparation required. Specimen should be collected prior to initiation of antifungal therapy when possible to maximize detection sensitivity.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results suggest *Candida albicans* may be present in your body fluids, which could indicate an infection. However, not all positive results mean an active infection—some people carry harmless yeast without symptoms. Your doctor will interpret results alongside symptoms, medical history, and other tests to determine the next steps, such as treatment or further investigation.
Short name
Candida Detection Probe
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can this test be used for routine infections like thrush?
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy