Candida antigen in serum (qualitative immunoassay)
This test detects the presence of Candida antigens in your blood serum, helping identify infections caused by yeast like *Candida*. It’s used primarily in patients with suspected invasive fungal infections.
["A positive result may indicate a fungal infection requiring urgent medical evaluation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 34584-3
- Short code
- CANDM
- Synonyms
- Candida IgM Ser Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top tube without anticoagulant
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 0 years
- Method
- Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA) or Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA)
- CPT
- 86645
- SNOMED
- 27506-6
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of serum
- Stability
- Serum stable for 7 days at 2-8°C; for longer storage, freeze at -20°C or below
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- Lipemia max
- 100
- Icterus max
- 20
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test looks for specific antigens produced by *Candida* species (e.g., *Candida albicans*) in your blood. These antigens are released when the yeast invades tissues, often seen in severe or systemic infections. The method uses an immunoassay to detect these markers qualitatively (yes/no result).
When You Might Need This Test
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, persistent mouth/throat sores, or signs of infection in organs (e.g., lungs, bloodstream). It’s also used in patients with weakened immune systems (e.g., from chemotherapy, HIV, or organ transplants).
How the Test Works
Blood is drawn and processed to separate serum. The serum is then tested for Candida antigens using an immunoassay, which identifies the presence of these markers with high sensitivity. Results are reported as positive or negative, not quantitative values.
What the Results Mean
A **positive** result suggests possible *Candida* infection and warrants further testing (e.g., cultures) or treatment. A **negative** result means no detectable antigens were found, but other causes of symptoms should still be evaluated.
Reference range
Negative: No detectable Candida IgM antibodies. Positive: Presence of Candida-specific IgM antibodies indicating recent or acute infection.N/A
No special patient preparation required. Fasting is not necessary for this test.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Candida Antigen (Serum) - Qualitative
Frequently asked questions
A positive result is critical for diagnosing invasive fungal infections, especially in high-risk patients. It helps guide treatment decisions (e.g., antifungal medications) and monitors response to therapy. False positives are rare but possible; confirmatory cultures may be needed.
Your doctor may order it to screen for *Candida* infections in patients at high risk, such as those undergoing cancer treatment, transplant recipients, or those with long-term catheters or central lines. Symptoms like fever or unexplained infections may prompt testing even without clear signs.
No special preparation is needed. You can eat, drink, or take medications as usual. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before testing, as it may affect lab results. Fasted or non-fasted blood is acceptable for this qualitative test.
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