Candida antigen in serum/plasma (immunoassay)
This test detects the presence of Candida antigens in your blood, which may indicate an active fungal infection caused by Candida species (such as yeast infections). It helps identify infections that standard blood cultures might miss.
["This test can help diagnose fungal infections when other tests are inconclusive."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 101696-3
- Short code
- CT + NG + TV + Candida sp RNA Pnl
- Synonyms
- CT + NG + TV + Candida sp RNA Pnl
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test looks for specific antigens produced by Candida fungi in your blood. These antigens are proteins that the immune system recognizes as foreign. If Candida is growing in your body, these antigens can be detected in your serum or plasma, even before symptoms appear.
Why It’s Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, fatigue, or unexplained infections, especially if you have a weakened immune system (e.g., from HIV, chemotherapy, or other conditions). It’s also used in patients with persistent infections that don’t respond to antibiotics, or in those with invasive procedures (like central lines).
How the Test Works
The test uses an immunoassay method to detect Candida antigens. A small sample of your blood is taken and analyzed in a lab. If Candida antigens are present, the test will show a positive result, indicating possible infection.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood, similar to a routine blood test. If you’re on blood-thinning medications or have a history of bleeding disorders, let your provider know.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results suggest an active Candida infection, which can affect various organs (e.g., lungs, bloodstream, or skin). Candida infections are common in immunocompromised individuals but can also occur in healthy people, especially after invasive procedures. Early detection helps guide treatment with antifungal medications. False positives are rare but possible, so results should be interpreted by a healthcare provider in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Short name
Candida antigen test
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
What does a positive result mean?
Can I have this test if I’m pregnant?
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