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Candida Antigen in Serum (Quantitative)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the presence of Candida antigens in your blood, which can help detect infections caused by yeast like *Candida*. It’s often used to diagnose serious fungal infections, especially in people with weakened immune systems.

Quick summary

["This test helps identify bloodstream infections by Candida that may not show up with other tests."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
108328-6
Short code
CANDVAG
Synonyms
Candida DNA Msmt Vag
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Sterile transport medium for molecular testing (e.g., nucleic acid preservation transport tube); sterile Dacron or flocked swab in transport medium
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
female
Age range
14–99 years
Method
Real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) / Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT)
CPT
87481
SNOMED
446080008
Specimen volume
1 vaginal swab in viral/microbial transport medium; minimum 0.5 mL if liquid specimen
Stability
Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

When Might This Test Be Needed?

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fever, chills, or unexplained infections, especially if you have conditions that weaken your immune system (e.g., HIV/AIDS, chemotherapy, or organ transplants). It may also be used in people with persistent fever of unknown origin or those with known risk factors for fungal infections.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is then analyzed in a lab to detect specific antigens produced by *Candida* yeast. The test measures the concentration of these antigens, which can indicate an active infection.

What Are Possible Results?

A positive result suggests an active *Candida* infection, while a negative result means no detectable antigens were found in this sample. Results should be interpreted by your healthcare provider in the context of your symptoms and medical history.

What Does This Test Tell You About My Health?

This test helps confirm or rule out *Candida* bloodstream infections, which can be life-threatening if untreated. It’s particularly useful for diagnosing infections in people who are more vulnerable to fungal diseases.

Reference range

Negative (Not Detected) for Candida species DNA. Positive results indicate presence of Candida sp. DNA in vaginal fluid.N/A

Specimen: serum

Patient should avoid douching, vaginal creams, suppositories, or sexual intercourse for at least 24-48 hours prior to specimen collection. Avoid menstruation if possible. No fasting required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

This test is important for monitoring patients at high risk for invasive fungal infections, such as those with severe immune suppression or those undergoing invasive medical procedures. Early detection can lead to timely treatment with antifungal medications.

Short name

Candida Antigen Test

Frequently asked questions

Why was I asked to take this test?
Your doctor may have ordered this test because you have symptoms or risk factors for a *Candida* infection, such as fever, persistent infections, or a weakened immune system. It helps determine if you need antifungal treatment.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result means your blood contains antigens from *Candida*, suggesting an active infection. Your doctor will work with you to decide on the next steps, which may include starting antifungal treatment.
Can I eat or drink before the test?
You may eat and drink normally before the test unless your doctor gives specific instructions. Blood tests usually don’t require fasting unless they measure substances like glucose or lipids.
  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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy