Candida antigen in vaginal fluid (qualitative probe)
This test detects the presence of Candida antigens in your vaginal fluid to help identify if you have a vaginal yeast infection caused by *Candida* organisms.
["A positive result may indicate an active yeast infection needing treatment."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 47000-5
- Short code
- CANDVR
- Synonyms
- Candida rRNA Vag Ql Probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Viral transport medium (VTM), nucleic acid transport medium, or sterile container as specified by the testing platform
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- female
- Age range
- ≥ 14 years
- Method
- probe
- CPT
- 87481
- SNOMED
- 122065001
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of vaginal fluid in appropriate transport medium
- Stability
- Room temperature: 24-48 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 5-7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days (verify with specific assay manufacturer)
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test uses a probe to detect specific antigens produced by *Candida* yeast in your vaginal fluid. These antigens are unique to certain *Candida* species and help confirm the presence of an infection.
How the Test Works
The sample is collected via a swab of vaginal fluid, which is then analyzed using a qualitative immunoassay (probe-based test). This method detects fungal antigens without measuring exact quantities.
When You Might Need This Test
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unusual vaginal discharge, itching, or discomfort, especially if other tests (like a culture) are inconclusive or unavailable.
Symptoms to Watch For
Common symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection include white or thick discharge, itching, redness, or burning during urination or sex. If you experience these, discuss them with your doctor.
Reference range
Negative (Candida species rRNA not detected). Positive results indicate the presence of Candida ribosomal RNA in the specimen.N/A
Patient should avoid douching, vaginal medications, creams, or sexual intercourse for at least 24-48 hours prior to specimen collection. Specimen should be collected prior to initiation of antifungal therapy when possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive result strongly suggests a *Candida* infection, which can be treated with antifungal medications. A negative result means no detectable antigens, but other causes of vaginal irritation (like bacteria or allergies) could still be present. Follow-up may include additional testing or treatment plans.
Short name
Vaginal fungal infection screening
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor order this test?
What does a positive result mean?
Can I still have a yeast infection if the test is negative?
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