can candida be identified by a blood test?
Rapid identification of Candida species in high-risk patients can lead to timely treatment with an appropriate antifungal agent. Blood tests can be used to detect candidemia and other forms of invasive candidiasis. Current laboratory assays include blood culture (the current gold standard) and antigen tests. However, these assays tend to have limited sensitivity, and blood cultures may also have long turnaround times. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based detection of Candida spp may prove to be a rapid and sensitive alternative.