Candida species DNA in Blood by Probe-Based Nucleic Acid Amplification Test
This test detects genetic material from *Candida* yeasts (a type of fungus) in your blood. It helps identify if an infection is present, especially in people at higher risk of bloodstream infections.
["This test can help diagnose fungal bloodstream infections quickly, especially in immunocompromised patients."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 107288-3
- Short code
- CANSP
- Synonyms
- Candida sp DNA pnl Bld NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile serum separator tube (SST) or red-top tube; plasma collected in EDTA or ACD tubes is also acceptable
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- CPT
- 87481
- SNOMED
- 12245100022110
- Specimen volume
- 3-5 mL whole blood; minimum 1 mL serum required for testing
- Stability
- Serum stable at 2-8°C for 7 days; frozen at -70°C or lower for up to 30 days; avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test looks for specific genetic sequences unique to *Candida* yeasts (e.g., *Candida albicans*, *Candida glabrata*). These sequences are extracted from your blood sample and analyzed using a probe-based method to confirm their presence. Unlike traditional blood cultures, this test can detect fungal DNA without growing the organism in a lab.
How the Test Works
Your blood sample is processed to isolate DNA. A specialized probe targets *Candida* DNA sequences, and if present, the test detects them through amplification (e.g., polymerase chain reaction, PCR). This method is highly sensitive and can detect low levels of fungal DNA.
When This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have signs of a fungal infection, such as fever, low blood cell counts, or symptoms like confusion or organ dysfunction. It’s often used in patients with weakened immune systems (e.g., due to chemotherapy, HIV, or organ transplants) or those with prolonged hospital stays.
Who Might Need This Test
People at higher risk of fungal bloodstream infections, such as: - Those undergoing cancer treatments (e.g., chemotherapy). - Patients with HIV/AIDS or other immune deficiencies. - Individuals with chronic illnesses (e.g., diabetes, kidney failure). - People who have recently had surgery or been in the hospital for a long time.
Reference range
Negative (Candida species DNA not detected); Positive indicates detection of one or more Candida species including C. albicans, C. glabrata, C. parapsilosis, C. tropicalis, C. krusei, and C. aurisN/A
No special patient preparation or fasting required. Specimen should be collected prior to initiation of antifungal therapy when clinically feasible to maximize diagnostic yield.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Candida DNA Blood Test
Frequently asked questions
Why might I need this test?
How long will it take to get results?
Are there any risks or side effects?
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