Candida Antigen Quantitative (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures the presence of certain proteins produced by *Candida* yeast in your blood. It helps doctors check for active *Candida* infections, such as bloodstream or invasive infections.
["Assists in diagnosing or monitoring *Candida* infections, especially in high-risk patients."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 9498-7
- Short code
- CANDIGA
- Synonyms
- Candida IgA Ser-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top vacuum tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 1
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)
- CPT
- 86628
- SNOMED
- 31323009
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of serum
- Stability
- Stable for 7 days at 2-8°C; for longer storage, freeze at -20°C or below. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 100
- Icterus max
- 50
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test detects *Candida* antigens—specific proteins released when *Candida* yeast grows in your blood. These proteins are not found in healthy individuals, making them useful for identifying active infections. The test is particularly useful for detecting *Candida* bloodstream infections, which can be life-threatening if untreated.
When You Might Need This Test
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, chills, or unusual fatigue, especially if you have a weakened immune system (e.g., from chemotherapy, HIV, or organ transplant). It’s also used in patients with prolonged hospital stays or central venous catheters, as these increase infection risk.
How the Test Works
A blood sample is taken and analyzed using a sensitive immunoassay method to detect the presence of *Candida* antigens. This method can detect very small amounts of these proteins, even when infection signs are subtle.
Preparation for the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted to draw blood from your arm. If you’re on blood-thinning medication, let your doctor know before the test.
Reference range
Reference ranges vary by laboratory and assay manufacturer; generally negative or <1:10 titer considered normal. Positive results may indicate past or current Candida infection.N/A
No special preparation required. Sample can be collected at any time of day. Patient should inform clinician of any immunosuppressive medications or recent antibiotic/antifungal therapy that may affect results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Candida Antigen Level
Frequently asked questions
Could I have symptoms of a *Candida* infection but still test negative?
Is this test the same as a *Candida* blood culture?
How long will results take?
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