Candida antigen in serum (quantitative)
This test measures the presence of antigens from *Candida* yeast in your blood serum. It helps detect infections caused by *Candida* fungi, which can occur in immune-compromised individuals or after certain medical procedures.
["This test helps identify fungal infections early, even when symptoms aren’t obvious."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 109177-6
- Short code
- CANDIGA
- Synonyms
- Candida IgA Msmt Ser
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 10
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)
- CPT
- 86645
- SNOMED
- 423100009
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of serum
- Stability
- Stable for 7 days at 2-8°C; stable for 30 days at -20°C or below
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 50
- Icterus max
- 50
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is This Test Measuring?
The test detects specific proteins (antigens) produced by *Candida* yeast, which can be released into your blood during an infection. This helps distinguish *Candida* infections from other causes of bloodstream infections.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have risk factors for *Candida* infections, such as weakened immunity, recent surgery, or prolonged use of antibiotics or intravenous medications.
When Might Results Be Abnormal?
Elevated results suggest an active *Candida* infection, but false positives can occur. Results alone aren’t diagnostic; they’re often used alongside clinical findings and other tests.
What Does It Mean If Results Are Abnormal?
High levels may indicate a systemic *Candida* infection, prompting treatment with antifungal medications. Follow-up tests may be needed to confirm the diagnosis and monitor response to treatment.
Reference range
Negative: <10 U/mL; Borderline: 10-15 U/mL; Positive: >15 U/mLN/A
No special preparation required. Sample can be collected at any time of day.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test plays a key role in diagnosing *Candida* bloodstream infections in high-risk patients, particularly those with signs of sepsis or unexplained fever. It can help guide early antifungal therapy to improve outcomes.
Short name
Candida antigen test
Frequently asked questions
Why was I asked to provide a blood sample for this test?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Will this test show all types of *Candida* infections?
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