Candida albicans (Monilia) skin testing

Indications

• assessment of cell-mediated immunity
  • cellular immune dysfunction

Contraindications

Caution:

• systemic reactions can occur
• observe patients for 15-30 minutes for immediate systemic allergic reactions

Pregnancy category C.

Adverse effects

• not common (1-10%)
• induration*, large persistent local reactions*, minor exacerbation of allergic symptoms*
• necrosis
• anaphylaxis

* treat with cold applications &/or use of antihistamines

Drug interactions

• immunosuppressive agents may interfere with immune response to skin test

Procedure

• 0.1 mL intradermally
  • inject into flexor surface of forearm using a tuberculin syringe with a 26-27 gauge needle
• examine reaction site in 24-48 hours
• induration of > 5 mm in diameter is a positive reaction

More general terms

• skin testing

Additional terms

• Candida albicans
• Candida albicans (Monilia) skin test (Candin)
• candidiasis