Candida albicans antigen in serum/plasma (qualitative)
This test detects the presence of Candida albicans, a type of yeast that can cause infections, in your bloodstream.
["Helps identify infections caused by the fungus Candida albicans in your blood or body fluids."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 6336-2
- Short code
- Deprecated C albicans Ab Ser-aCnc
- Synonyms
- Deprecated C albicans Ab Ser-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- id
- 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 Does This Test Measure?
The test looks for specific antigens produced by *Candida albicans*—a common yeast that can become harmful if it spreads beyond the mouth or digestive tract. These antigens are released when the fungus is active in your body. The test is qualitative, meaning it only tells you whether the antigen is present or not, rather than how much is present.
Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms of a fungal infection (such as fever, fatigue, or persistent mouth/throat sores) and suspect *Candida albicans* involvement, especially in cases like severe infections in immunocompromised patients or bloodstream infections.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is then tested using an immunoassay (a lab method that detects specific proteins from the yeast). Results are typically available within 24–48 hours.
What Are Possible Results?
A positive result means the test detected *Candida albicans* antigens in your blood. A negative result means no detectable antigens were found. False positives or negatives can occur, so further testing (like blood cultures) may be needed for confirmation.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test plays a key role in diagnosing invasive fungal infections caused by *Candida albicans*, particularly in patients with weakened immune systems (e.g., from chemotherapy, HIV, or organ transplants). Early detection can guide treatment decisions, such as starting antifungal medications.
Short name
Candida antigen test
Frequently asked questions
What causes a positive result?
No, this test specifically detects *Candida albicans*. Other Candida species (like *Candida glabrata* or *Candida krusei*) would not be detected by this test alone. Your doctor may order additional tests if needed.
No, this test measures antigens in your blood, so lifestyle factors (like diet or probiotics) do not directly influence the test result. However, if you suspect an infection, it’s important to follow your doctor’s advice for proper care.
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