Candida Antigen Detection (Qualitative, Urine)
This test checks for the presence of Candida antigens in your urine, which may indicate an infection caused by the yeast *Candida*. It helps diagnose urinary tract infections (UTIs) or systemic fungal infections.
["A positive result may signal a fungal infection needing medical evaluation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 73962-3
- Short code
- CANDIDAFISH
- Synonyms
- Candida rRNA Bld Pos FISH
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Positive blood culture bottle (aerobic or anaerobic) submitted for identification; original collection in standard blood culture bottles (e.g., BacT/ALERT, BACTEC).
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH) targeting Candida species ribosomal RNA (rRNA) in positive blood culture specimens; probe hybridization detected by fluorescence microscopy or automated imaging systems.
- CPT
- 87102
- SNOMED
- 122450008
- Specimen volume
- Not applicable; testing performed directly from positive blood culture bottle. Blood culture bottles typically require 8-10 mL of blood per bottle.
- Stability
- Test should be performed as soon as possible after the blood culture bottle flags positive (within 24 hours recommended). Positive blood culture bottles are stable at room temperature for up to 24 hours post-positivity.
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 1–4 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test detects specific antigens produced by *Candida* species in your urine. These antigens are fragments of the yeast’s cell wall, which the immune system can recognize. The test uses a qualitative immunoassay method to identify whether these antigens are present.
Why It’s Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like frequent urination, pain during urination, or unexplained fever, especially if you’ve had recurrent UTIs or weakened immune function. It’s also used in monitoring patients with conditions like diabetes or HIV.
What to Expect
You’ll provide a urine sample, typically collected in the morning. The test is quick and painless. Results are usually available within 24 hours, but timing may vary by lab.
Possible Results
A positive result means Candida antigens were found in your urine, suggesting a possible infection. A negative result means no detectable antigens were present, but other causes of symptoms (like bacteria) could still be present. Follow-up testing or treatment may be needed.
Reference range
Negative for Candida species rRNA. Positive results indicate the presence of Candida species ribosomal RNA in the positive blood culture.N/A
No patient preparation or fasting is required. Specimen is collected as part of standard blood culture collection when bloodstream infection is suspected.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Urine Candida Antigen Test
Frequently asked questions
This test helps differentiate between bacterial and fungal causes of UTIs. While bacterial infections are more common, Candida infections can occur, especially in immunocompromised individuals or those with prolonged antibiotic use. Early detection can guide targeted treatment.
If you have recurring UTIs or symptoms like fever, pain, or unusual discharge, this test may be recommended alongside other tests (like urine culture).
Does this test require fasting? No, you can eat and drink normally before providing the urine sample.
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