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Candida species detection by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in plasma

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

This test checks for the presence of genetic material from certain types of yeast called *Candida* in your blood plasma. It helps identify infections caused by these fungi, which can occur in people with weakened immune systems or those undergoing medical treatments.

Quick summary

["This test helps diagnose bloodstream fungal infections quickly and accurately."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
72481-5
Short code
CANVAG6
Synonyms
Candida sp 6 pnl Vag NAA+probe
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Sterile, screw-capped, leak-proof container or nucleic acid transport medium (e.g., Aptima vaginal swab transport tube, sterile polypropylene tube)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
female
Age range
12–99 years
Method
probe-amp-tar
CPT
87481
SNOMED
442148000
Specimen volume
1 mL vaginal fluid in transport medium or 1 vaginal swab
Stability
Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days. Transport medium-specific stability may apply per manufacturer.
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

What Is This Test Used For?

The Candida PCR test is primarily used to detect *Candida* species in the blood, which can indicate a serious fungal infection. It is especially useful for patients who are at higher risk, such as those with cancer, undergoing chemotherapy, having organ transplants, or with conditions like HIV/AIDS that weaken the immune system. This test can help confirm infections that might not be detected by other methods, such as blood cultures, which can take longer to grow fungal organisms.

How Does the Test Work?

The test uses a small sample of your plasma (the liquid part of blood) to detect genetic material from *Candida* species. A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) process amplifies tiny amounts of this genetic material, making it easier to identify even very small amounts of the fungus. This method is highly sensitive and can detect infections earlier than traditional culture methods.

What Does a Positive Result Mean?

A positive result means that genetic material from *Candida* species was found in your plasma. This suggests the presence of a fungal infection, but it does not always mean you have an active infection. Further testing or clinical correlation may be needed to confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment. Your healthcare provider will consider your symptoms, medical history, and other test results to determine the next steps.

What Does a Negative Result Mean?

A negative result means no genetic material from *Candida* species was detected in your plasma sample. However, this does not definitively rule out a fungal infection. If you have symptoms suggestive of an infection or are at high risk, additional testing or follow-up may still be recommended.

Reference range

Negative (no Candida species DNA detected). Panel includes: C. albicans, C. glabrata, C. tropicalis, C. parapsilosis, C. krusei, C. dubliniensis.N/A

Specimen: serum

Patient should avoid vaginal douching, sexual intercourse, and use of intravaginal medications or spermicidal products for at least 24-48 hours prior to specimen collection. Specimen should be collected prior to initiation of antifungal therapy when possible. Menstrual cycle timing may affect results; mid-cycle collection preferred when feasible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

PCR Candida Plasma

Frequently asked questions

Why might my doctor order this test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, chills, or unexplained infections, or if you are at higher risk for fungal infections due to medical conditions or treatments. It helps identify infections that might not be caught by other tests, such as blood cultures, which can be slower to detect.
What are the risks or limitations of this test?
There are no significant risks associated with this test, as it involves a small blood sample. However, like all tests, it has limitations. False positives or negatives can occur, and the test only detects *Candida* species genetic material, not the presence of other fungi or bacterial infections. Your healthcare provider will interpret the results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
How soon will I get results?
Results from this test are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on lab processing times. Your healthcare provider will contact you with the results and discuss what they mean for your care.
  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