Candida Albicans DNA Detection, PCR: Booking, Price, and Results
About Candida Albicans DNA Detection, PCR
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Candida PCR Test, C. albicans DNA PCR, Candida Molecular Detection, Fungal DNA PCR |
| Sample Type | Body fluid (sterile container) |
| Fasting Required | No |
| Report Time | 8 Days |
| Recommended For | All genders and ages; particularly immunocompromised individuals, hospitalised patients, and those with suspected invasive candidiasis |
| Price | Starting at ₹6,700 |
What Is a Candida Albicans DNA Detection, PCR?
The Candida Albicans DNA Detection, PCR is a molecular diagnostic test that identifies the genetic material of Candida albicans, a yeast that can cause infections in humans. It uses a technique called Real Time PCR (polymerase chain reaction), which copies and amplifies tiny amounts of DNA from a sample to confirm whether this fungus is present. The test is also known as the Candida PCR Test, C. albicans DNA PCR, or Fungal DNA PCR.
Doctors typically order this test when a patient shows signs of a persistent or invasive fungal infection that cannot be confirmed by routine tests alone.
What Does a Candida Albicans DNA Detection, PCR Measure?
The Candida Albicans DNA Detection, PCR test analyses a body fluid sample for one specific target.
| Parameter | What It Detects |
|---|---|
| Candida albicans DNA | Presence or absence of genetic material from the Candida albicans fungus |
The result is reported as "Detected" (positive) or "Not Detected" (negative). Because Real Time PCR is highly sensitive, it can identify the fungus even when the amount present in the sample is very small.
Why Is a Candida Albicans DNA Detection, PCR Done?
This test is used to confirm a suspected Candida albicans infection, especially in cases where standard culture methods have not given a clear answer.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
A doctor may recommend the Candida Albicans DNA Detection, PCR test procedure when a patient presents with any of the following:
- Fever and chills that do not improve after antibiotic treatment
- Persistent vaginal itching and unusual discharge
- White patches in the mouth or throat (oral thrush)
- Pain or difficulty when swallowing
- Skin rashes or unexplained redness in moist areas of the body
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
The test can help identify several Candida-related conditions. These include:
- Candidaemia (Candida infection of the bloodstream)
- Invasive candidiasis affecting internal organs such as the kidneys or brain
- Vulvovaginal candidiasis (vaginal yeast infection)
- Oral candidiasis (oral thrush)
- Oesophageal candidiasis
How to Prepare and What to Expect
No special preparation is required before the Candida Albicans DNA Detection, PCR test. The steps below explain what to expect from start to finish.
Do You Need to Fast?
No, fasting is not required. You may eat and drink normally before your sample is collected.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Here are a few things to keep in mind before your appointment:
- Bring a detailed clinical history, including your symptoms, previous test results, and any relevant medical records, as this is required for the test
- Tell your doctor about any antifungal medicines you are currently taking, as these can affect results
- If a vaginal sample is being collected, avoid douching or using vaginal medications for 24 to 48 hours before collection
- Make sure your sample container is properly labelled with your name and details before it is handed over
Step-by-Step Procedure
The Candida Albicans DNA Detection, PCR test procedure follows these steps:
- A trained healthcare professional collects the appropriate body fluid sample, depending on where the infection is suspected.
- The sample is placed in a sterile container and stored at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius before being sent to the laboratory.
- In the lab, DNA is extracted from the sample.
- The extracted DNA is then processed using Real Time PCR, which uses specific chemical primers to target and amplify regions of DNA unique to Candida albicans.
- The amplified DNA is detected using fluorescent probes. If Candida albicans DNA is present, the test registers a positive result.
- The final result, either "Detected" or "Not Detected", is recorded and included in your report.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
Several factors can influence how reliable your result is:
- Ongoing antifungal treatment may reduce the fungal load in your sample, potentially causing a false-negative result
- Poor sample collection technique or contamination can affect accuracy
- Samples not maintained at the correct storage temperature may degrade in transit
- PCR inhibitors present in the patient specimen can interfere with the reaction
- Timing of sample collection relative to the onset of infection matters
Understanding Your Candida Albicans DNA Detection, PCR Results
Your results should always be reviewed alongside your full clinical picture. The table below shows the reference range for this test.
| Parameter | Expected Result | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Candida albicans DNA | Not Detected | Qualitative |
A "Not Detected" result is the expected finding in a person without a Candida albicans infection. A "Detected" result indicates the presence of Candida albicans DNA in the sample, which may point to an active infection at the site tested.
These ranges are general guidelines. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your age, health history, and other factors. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical advice.
Results During Special Conditions
Certain health conditions can affect both susceptibility to Candida infection and how results should be read:
- Patients with neutropenia (low white blood cell count), those receiving corticosteroids, and those undergoing chemotherapy or abdominal surgery have a higher risk of invasive candidiasis. Results in these patients must be read carefully in context.
- Patients with conditions such as AIDS, underlying malignancy, or prolonged ICU stays are at increased risk, and a positive result in this group usually calls for urgent clinical attention.
- Concurrent antifungal therapy at the time of testing may lead to a false-negative result, even when active infection is present.
How to Maintain General Wellness
The following general habits may help reduce the risk of Candida infections:
- Maintain good personal hygiene, particularly in warm and moist areas of the body
- Avoid unnecessary or prolonged use of broad-spectrum antibiotics
- Keep underlying conditions such as diabetes well managed, as high blood sugar can encourage fungal growth
Lupin Diagnostics Candida Albicans DNA Detection, PCR Price and Home Collection
The Candida Albicans DNA Detection, PCR test is priced starting at ₹6,700 at Lupin Diagnostics, and home sample collection for certain samples is available. The table below shows approximate prices across major Indian cities.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 6,700 |
| CHENNAI | 6,700 |
| HYDERABAD | 6,700 |
| KOLKATA | 6,700 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 6,700 |
| PUNE | 6,700 |
Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
Home Collection
Candida Albicans DNA Detection, PCR test home collection is available across cities served by Lupin Diagnostics for certain samples depending on the site of collection. It is best practice to consult your healthcare provider to determine appropriate site of collection and visit your nearest Lupin Diagnostics centre for sampling. A certified technician or healthcare provider will collect the sample in a sterile container. All samples are processed in NABL-accredited laboratories, and your digital report is delivered via email or WhatsApp.
How to Book
The Candida Albicans DNA Detection, PCR test online booking process is straightforward:
- Select the test on the Lupin Diagnostics website.
- Choose your city and preferred time slot.
- It is preferable to book slot with your nearest Lupin Diagnostics centre for collection to determine appropriate site for sample colection. Home sample collection may be offered for certain samples by a certified technician. It is essential to consult your healthcare provider prior to testing.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Candida Albicans DNA Detection, PCR test is a molecular diagnostic tool that checks a body fluid sample for the genetic material of Candida albicans. It uses Real Time PCR technology to identify the fungus even when it is present in very small amounts, making it more sensitive than conventional culture methods.
This test is generally recommended for people with persistent symptoms of a yeast infection, oral thrush, or suspected invasive candidiasis. It is particularly useful for immunocompromised individuals, hospitalised patients, and those whose symptoms have not responded to standard antibiotic treatment.
No fasting is needed. You can eat and drink normally on the day of sample collection. However, if a vaginal sample is being taken, avoid using vaginal medications or douching for 24 to 48 hours beforehand.
A trained professional collects the relevant body fluid, depending on the suspected site of infection. The sample is collected into a sterile container and kept refrigerated before being sent to the laboratory for testing.
A "Detected" result indicates that Candida albicans DNA was found in your sample, suggesting an active infection at the tested site. Your doctor will review this result alongside your symptoms and medical history to decide on the next steps.
Not entirely. A "Not Detected" result is generally reassuring, but it does not completely rule out infection. The fungal load may be below the test's detection limit, the sample may have been collected from an unaffected site, or PCR inhibitors in the specimen may have interfered with the result. Your doctor will consider the full clinical picture before drawing conclusions.
At Lupin Diagnostics, the report is delivered within 8 days of sample collection. Your report will be sent to you digitally via email or WhatsApp.
Candida Albicans DNA Detection, PCR: Booking, Price, and Results
