Fungal Candida Multiplex Detection & Differentiation (C. albicans, Candida glabrata, C. tropicalis, C. parapsilosis, C. krusei, Candida nivariensis, Candida dubliniensis, Candida clavispora lusitaniae) (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test
Short Name: Candida Multiplex RNA
Also known as: Candida species identification, Candida PCR panel, Candida RNA detection
Fungal Candida Multiplex Detection & Differentiation (C. albicans, Candida glabrata, C. tropicalis, C. parapsilosis, C. krusei, Candida nivariensis, Candida dubliniensis, Candida clavispora lusitaniae) (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹14,450. Uses Real-Time PCR (RNA Detection) on Blood, BAL, fresh tissue biopsy, skin biopsy, tissue specimens, peripheral blood, respiratory secretions samples. Results in Reports are delivered on the 4th working day after sample collection. Email reports within 48 hours of result availability, phone within 36 hours.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal
Consultant Microbiologist · Reg: 27670
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The primary purpose of this test is to detect and differentiate among eight Candida species in clinical specimens. This aids in the accurate diagnosis of candidiasis, guides appropriate antifungal therapy, and helps monitor treatment response. Early and precise species identification is crucial for effective management, especially in immunocompromised patients or those with invasive infections.
- Test Code
- 6142
- CPT Code
- 87798
- ICD Code
- B37.9
- Price
- ₹14,450
- Sample Type
- Blood, BAL, fresh tissue biopsy, skin biopsy, tissue specimens, peripheral blood, respiratory secretions
- Result Time
- Reports are delivered on the 4th working day after sample collection. Email reports within 48 hours of result availability, phone within 36 hours.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Real-Time PCR (RNA Detection)
Sample Collection
No special preparation required. However, inform your physician about any antifungal medications you are taking. A consent form must be signed.
Method: Venipuncture or biopsy as applicable
Laboratory Analysis
Blood sample collection by venipuncture; for tissue/fluid, a biopsy or aspiration procedure will be performed by a healthcare professional.
Report Delivery
No specific aftercare required. You may resume normal activities. The sample will be transported to the laboratory for analysis.
Timeline: Reports are delivered on the 4th working day after sample collection. Email reports within 48 hours of result availability, phone within 36 hours.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The primary purpose of this test is to detect and differentiate among eight Candida species in clinical specimens. This aids in the accurate diagnosis of candidiasis, guides appropriate antifungal therapy, and helps monitor treatment response. Early and precise species identification is crucial for effective management, especially in immunocompromised patients or those with invasive infections.
How to Prepare
- Use sterile collection containers for tissue/fluid samples
- For blood, use EDTA tube and mix gently
- Label the sample with patient ID and collection time
- Transport samples to the lab at 2-8°C if delay is expected
- Avoid freezing blood samples
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"Candida species identification is critical for targeted antifungal therapy. This multiplex RNA test covers clinically significant species, including emerging pathogens like C. nivariensis and C. dubliniensis, enabling early and precise treatment decisions."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Hemolyzed or clotted blood sample
- Insufficient sample volume
- Improperly labeled or unlabeled samples
- Samples received after prolonged delay without proper storage
Understanding Your Results
Indicates infection with C. albicans, the most common cause of candidiasis. Usually susceptible to azoles and echinocandins.
Often resistant to fluconazole; may require echinocandins or amphotericin B. Common in older patients and those with prior azole exposure.
Intrinsically resistant to fluconazole; treatment usually with echinocandins or amphotericin B.
Common in neutropenic patients; may be associated with high mortality. Susceptibility varies; often susceptible to azoles and echinocandins.
Often associated with catheter-related infections; may be less susceptible to echinocandins; fluconazole usually effective.
Emerging species; susceptibility patterns vary. C. lusitaniae may be resistant to amphotericin B. Antifungal susceptibility testing recommended.
No RNA from the tested Candida species detected. However, infection with other fungal species or low fungal load cannot be excluded. Clinical correlation advised.
If you have symptoms suggestive of candidiasis (e.g., oral thrush, vaginal discharge, fever, chills) or if you are at high risk (immunocompromised, ICU stay), consult your healthcare provider for evaluation and testing.
Limitations
- ⚠Qualitative test – does not quantify fungal load
- ⚠May not detect all Candida species (only the 8 listed)
- ⚠Requires adequate specimen volume and quality
- ⚠Results should be correlated with clinical findings and culture
- ⚠RNA-based detection may be affected by sample degradation
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minimal risk of bruising or infection at the blood draw site
- ●For biopsy procedures, there is a small risk of bleeding or infection
Interfering Factors
- ●Contamination of sample with non-Candida fungal DNA
- ●Inhibitors in blood or tissue (e.g., heparin, hemoglobin)
- ●Improper sample storage or transport leading to RNA degradation
- ●Recent antifungal therapy may reduce fungal load, causing false negatives
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Fungal Candida Multiplex Detection & Differentiation (C. albicans, Candida glabrata, C. tropicalis, C. parapsilosis, C. krusei, Candida nivariensis, Candida dubliniensis, Candida clavispora lusitaniae) (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test | Blood Culture for Candida | Candida Antigen (Mannan) Test | Pan-Fungal PCR | Candida Antibody Test |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Fungal Candida Multiplex Detection & Differentiation (C. albicans, Candida glabrata, C. tropicalis, C. parapsilosis, C. krusei, Candida nivariensis, Candida dubliniensis, Candida clavispora lusitaniae) (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test | Culture is the gold standard but takes 2-5 days and may miss low-level fungemia. Molecular test is faster and more sensitive. | Antigen detection is less specific and may cross-react. Molecular test directly detects species-specific RNA. | Pan-fungal PCR detects many fungi but may not differentiate species. This multiplex test specifically identifies 8 Candida species. | Antibody tests reflect past exposure and are not useful in immunocompromised patients. Molecular test detects active infection. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Fungal Candida Multiplex Detection & Differentiation test?
Which Candida species are detected in this test?
What is the cost of the test?
What sample is required for this test?
Do I need to fast before the test?
How long does it take to get the results?
Is home sample collection available?
What does a 'Detected' result mean?
Can this test detect Candida auris?
Is this test qualitative or quantitative?
Are there any risks associated with the test?
How should I prepare for the test?
Related Tests
Reference Laboratory Services
We serve as a reference laboratory for hospitals and clinics across India. Send samples from your facility with same-day pickup, priority processing, and results delivered through our online portal. Competitive institutional pricing available.
Your Data Privacy
Your medical data is protected under Indian law.
✓ Stored in India: All patient records are stored on servers located in India. No data is transferred outside the country.
✓ DPDP Act Compliant: Under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023, you can request deletion of your records at any time by contacting support.
Book Your Test
Enter your details and we'll connect you within 15 minutes.