Candida Antigen (Serum) – Quantitative
This test measures the presence of antigens from *Candida* fungi in your blood serum. It helps detect active infections caused by yeast, such as candidiasis.
["Detects yeast infections in your bloodstream with a simple blood draw."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 109176-8
- Short code
- CANDG
- Synonyms
- Candida IgG Msmt Ser
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top serum tube (no anticoagulant) or serum separator tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 10
- Ref high
- 12
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA) / Chemiluminescent Immunoassay (CLIA)
- CPT
- 86645
- SNOMED
- 39508000
- Specimen volume
- 0.5-1 mL of serum
- Stability
- Stable at room temperature (15-25°C) for 8 hours; refrigerated (2-8°C) for 7 days; frozen (-20°C or below) for up to 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 100
- Icterus max
- 50
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What Does This Test Measure?
The test looks for specific proteins (antigens) produced by *Candida* yeast, which can indicate an active infection. This is different from blood cultures, which identify the yeast itself under a microscope or through culture growth.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, fatigue, or signs of infection (e.g., white patches in the mouth, skin rashes, or organ involvement). It’s also used in patients with weakened immune systems (e.g., after chemotherapy, organ transplant, or long-term antibiotics).
When Might Results Be Abnormal?
Elevated results suggest an active *Candida* infection, while normal results mean no detectable yeast antigens are present. However, false negatives can occur if the infection is mild or localized (e.g., in the mouth or skin).
What Does This Test Tell You About Your Health?
This test helps confirm whether yeast is spreading into your bloodstream, which is a serious condition requiring prompt treatment. It’s not a definitive diagnosis but supports further evaluation (like cultures or imaging).
Reference range
Negative: <10 U/mL; Equivocal: 10-12 U/mL; Positive: >12 U/mL (varies by laboratory and assay manufacturer)N/A
No special preparation required. Sample may be collected at any time of day. Inform the physician of any current antifungal therapy, immunosuppressant use, or recent immunoglobulin administration as these may affect results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: When to Follow Up
Short name
Candida Antigen Test
Frequently asked questions
How long will it take to get my results?
Can I take anything to prepare for this test?
Is this test painful or uncomfortable?
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