Candida Antigen in Serum/Plasma (1,3-β-D-Glucan)
This test detects the presence of a sugar molecule (glucan) produced by certain types of fungi, including Candida, which can indicate an infection.
["Helps identify fungal infections in your bloodstream."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 97612-6
- Short code
- CANDDNA
- Synonyms
- Candida DNA Snv Ql NAA+n-prb
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- fluid
- Container
- Sterile, screw-capped, leak-proof container; sterile cryovial preferred for molecular testing
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 0 years
- Method
- non-probe-amp-tar
- CPT
- 87481
- SNOMED
- 442538003
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of synovial fluid (minimum 0.5 mL)
- Stability
- Refrigerated (2-8°C): up to 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): up to 30 days; Room temperature (20-25°C): up to 24 hours
- Hemolysis max
- 300
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What Does This Test Measure?
The test measures a specific sugar (glucan) found in the cell walls of some fungi, such as Candida. This sugar is not naturally present in human cells, making it a useful marker for fungal infections.
Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fever, chills, or signs of infection, especially if you have a weakened immune system or are receiving treatments that increase your risk of fungal infections.
Who Is at Higher Risk?
People at higher risk include those with weakened immune systems (e.g., due to chemotherapy, HIV/AIDS, or organ transplants), those with long-term medical devices like central venous catheters, or those with certain medical conditions like diabetes.
What Are Common Symptoms?
Symptoms may include fever, fatigue, body aches, or unusual white patches in the mouth or throat. However, fungal infections can also be silent or cause no symptoms.
Reference range
Negative (Candida sp DNA not detected)N/A
No special patient preparation required. Standard aseptic arthrocentesis technique must be performed by qualified healthcare provider. Skin should be disinfected thoroughly before joint aspiration to avoid contamination.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: This test helps confirm or rule out fungal infections in the bloodstream. Elevated levels of glucan can indicate an active fungal infection, guiding treatment decisions such as antifungal medications.
Short name
Glucan Antigen Test
Frequently asked questions
What if My Test Results Are Positive?
How Is This Test Performed?
What If I Have Questions About My 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