Candida Antigen Group Detection (Serum/Plasma Probe)
This test measures the presence of Candida antigens in your blood, which can help identify infections caused by yeast like *Candida*. It’s often used when symptoms of fungal infection are suspected but other tests are inconclusive.
["This test helps doctors check for yeast infections in your bloodstream."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 94422-3
- Short code
- CANDNAA
- Synonyms
- Candida sp group RNA Vag Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Viral transport medium (VTM) or sterile container for vaginal swab specimen
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- female
- Age range
- 12–99 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- CPT
- 87481
- SNOMED
- 441889009
- Specimen volume
- 1 vaginal swab
- Stability
- Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-70°C or below): 30 days
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test detects specific antigens produced by certain types of *Candida* yeast, such as *Candida albicans*, which are circulating in your blood. These antigens are fragments of the yeast’s cell wall. If present, they signal an active infection that may require medical treatment.
Why It’s Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, chills, or signs of infection (such as low white blood cell count) and suspect a *Candida* bloodstream infection. It’s also used in patients with weakened immune systems, like those with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or undergoing chemotherapy.
Preparation and Process
No special preparation is needed. A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is then tested for the presence of Candida antigens using a sensitive immunoassay method.
What the Results Mean
A positive result means Candida antigens were found in your blood, suggesting an active infection. A negative result means no detectable antigens were found, but it doesn’t rule out infection entirely. Follow-up tests or additional evaluation may be needed.
Reference range
Negative (No Candida albicans, C. dubliniensis, C. parapsilosis, or C. tropicalis RNA detected)N/A
Patient should avoid douching, using vaginal creams or medications, and sexual intercourse for 24-48 hours prior to specimen collection. Specimen should be collected before or several days after menstruation for optimal results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is particularly useful for diagnosing invasive fungal infections, especially in high-risk patients. Early detection can guide treatment decisions, such as starting antifungal medications, and may improve outcomes by preventing complications like organ damage or sepsis.
Short name
Candida Group Antigen Test
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can a negative result mean I don’t have an infection?
How often will I need this test?
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