Candida albicans in blood culture (qualitative)
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 fungal blood infection.
["A positive result may indicate a serious yeast infection requiring medical treatment."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 48240-6
- Short code
- CAND-LT
- Synonyms
- C albicans LR-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Heparinized whole blood collection tube (sodium heparin or lithium heparin); for serum-based assays, red-top serum separator tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 18 years
- Method
- Leukocyte stimulation assay with Candida albicans antigen followed by quantitative leukotriene measurement via enzyme immunoassay (EIA)
- CPT
- 83520 (Immunoassay for analyte other than infectious agent antibody or infectious agent antigen; quantitative, not otherwise specified)
- SNOMED
- 395142005 |Leukotriene measurement|
- Specimen volume
- 5-10 mL whole blood; minimum 3 mL
- Stability
- Specimen should be processed within 4-6 hours of collection; leukocytes must be viable. Do not freeze whole blood. Stimulated samples may be stored at -20°C or below for batch analysis if leukotriene release is stabilized.
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 100
- Icterus max
- 50
- TAT
- 48–168 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
This test detects whether *Candida albicans* bacteria are growing in your blood. Blood cultures are drawn from a vein and sent to a lab to identify any abnormal microorganisms. If the test is positive, it means the lab found evidence of this yeast in your blood.
How the Test Works
Blood is collected and placed in special containers that support the growth of microorganisms. The lab monitors these containers for signs of yeast growth over time. If *Candida albicans* is present, it will appear as visible growth in the culture.
When You Might Need This Test
You may need this test if you have symptoms of a blood infection, such as fever, chills, or unusual tiredness, especially if you have a weakened immune system, recent surgery, or a long-term medical condition like diabetes.
Possible Causes of a Positive Result
A positive result suggests a fungal bloodstream infection caused by *Candida albicans*. This can happen if you have a break in your skin, a medical device (like a catheter) in place, or a condition that weakens your immune system.
Reference range
Reference range established by the performing laboratory; results interpreted as positive (elevated leukotriene release) or negative based on the laboratory's cut-off value. Typically reported in ng/mL or pg/mL of leukotriene released from stimulated leukocytes.N/A
No fasting required. Patients should avoid immunosuppressive medications, antihistamines, and leukotriene-modifying drugs (e.g., montelukast, zileuton) for at least 7-14 days prior to testing when possible, as these may interfere with leukotriene release. Discontinue systemic corticosteroids only under physician guidance.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Candida blood culture
Frequently asked questions
Why is this test important?
What does a positive result mean?
Can I prevent this type of infection?
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 10, 2026. · Read our editorial policy