Candida Antigen Detection (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures the presence of certain proteins produced by *Candida* yeast infections in your blood. It helps identify active infections that may not be detected by other tests.
["This test can help diagnose serious yeast infections in your bloodstream."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 16538-1
- Short code
- CANDIGA
- Synonyms
- Candida IgA Sal-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile saliva collection tube or oral fluid collection device with transport medium
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 1
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–99 years
- Method
- Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)
- CPT
- 86628
- SNOMED
- 313358003
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of oral fluid (saliva)
- 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
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fever, chills, or unexplained infections, especially if you have a weakened immune system (e.g., from HIV, chemotherapy, or organ transplant). It’s also used in patients with persistent fever of unknown origin or those with known *Candida* exposure (e.g., IV drug use, catheters).
How the Test Works
The test detects specific antigens (proteins) released by *Candida* yeast in your blood. These proteins are not found in healthy individuals, making the test useful for confirming active infection. The sample is typically taken from serum or plasma.
Sample Collection
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is processed to separate serum or plasma for testing. This is a quick procedure with minimal discomfort.
What to Expect After the Test
Results are usually available within 24–48 hours. If positive, further testing (like culture) may be needed to confirm the type of *Candida* species and guide treatment.
Reference range
Negative: <1.0 Units; Equivocal: 1.0-1.2 Units; Positive: >1.2 Units. Reference values may vary by laboratory and assay manufacturer.N/A
No fasting required. Patient should rinse mouth with water and refrain from eating, drinking, or using oral hygiene products for at least 30 minutes prior to saliva collection.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive result strongly suggests an active *Candida* bloodstream infection, which can be life-threatening if untreated. It’s especially important for patients with weakened immune systems. A negative result means no detectable antigens, but other tests (like cultures) may still be needed to rule out infection or guide treatment decisions.
Short name
Candida antigen test
Frequently asked questions
When might I get this test?
What does a positive result mean?
Can I have this test if I’m pregnant?
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