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Candida Antigen in Serum (Quantitative)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test detects the presence of Candida antigens in your blood, which can help identify infections caused by yeast like *Candida*. It’s often used when you have symptoms of a fungal infection or if you’re at higher risk.

Quick summary

["This test helps doctors check for yeast infections in your bloodstream."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
98393-2
Short code
CANDSEQ
Synonyms
Candida Islt Seq
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Sterile serum separator tube (SST) or sterile transport container for pure fungal isolate; blood culture bottles for blood specimens
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
0–120 years
Method
sequencing
CPT
87143
SNOMED
416677005
Specimen volume
5-10 mL of whole blood collected in serum separator tube (yielding approximately 2.5-5 mL serum); pure isolate submitted on appropriate fungal transport medium
Stability
Serum: stable at room temperature for 24 hours, refrigerated (2-8°C) for 7 days, frozen (-20°C or below) for 30 days. Fungal isolates: stable at room temperature on appropriate media for up to 48 hours prior to subculture and processing.
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
48–168 hours
Order
routine

What This Test Measures

The test looks for specific proteins (antigens) produced by *Candida* yeast, which can be found in your blood if an infection is present. It’s not the same as a blood culture, which grows the yeast in a lab. This test is quicker and can help confirm infection without waiting for culture results.

When You Might Need This Test

Your doctor may order 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 diabetes). It’s also used in people with persistent mouth, throat, or skin infections that don’t improve with antibiotics.

How the Test Works

A small blood sample is taken from your arm. The sample is tested for *Candida* antigens using a sensitive immunoassay method, which detects the yeast’s proteins even in small amounts. Results are usually available within a few days.

Possible Results and Next Steps

A positive result means *Candida* antigens were found, suggesting an infection. A negative result means no antigens were detected, but infection could still be present. Your doctor will discuss next steps, such as further testing (like a blood culture) or starting antifungal treatment.

Reference range

Negative for Candida species. Positive results indicate identification of Candida species (e.g., Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, Candida parapsilosis, Candida tropicalis, Candida krusei, Candida auris) at genus and/or species level as determined by sequence analysis.N/A

Specimen: serum

No special patient preparation required. Sample collection should be performed using aseptic technique to prevent contamination. For serum specimens, collect blood prior to initiation of antifungal therapy when clinically feasible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Candida Antigen Test

Frequently asked questions

Why might my doctor want to order this test?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms of a fungal infection, a weakened immune system, or if you’ve had repeated infections that don’t respond to antibiotics. It helps rule out *Candida* infections quickly, especially in high-risk groups like cancer patients, transplant recipients, or those with diabetes.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result strongly suggests a *Candida* bloodstream infection. This doesn’t always mean you need immediate treatment, but your doctor will work with you to determine the best course, which may include starting antifungal medication right away.
Can this test replace a blood culture?
No, this test is not a substitute for a blood culture. While it can quickly identify *Candida* antigens, a culture grows the yeast to confirm the species and guide treatment. Your doctor may use both tests together for the most accurate diagnosis.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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