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Candida species detection by culture (stool specimen)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test checks your stool sample for the presence of *Candida* yeast, a common fungus that can cause infections in the digestive tract or other parts of the body.

Quick summary

["A stool culture helps identify if *Candida* is growing abnormally, which may signal an infection requiring treatment."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
555-3
Short code
CANDSPC
Synonyms
Candida Spec Cult
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Sterile, leak-proof container for tissue, fluid, or swab specimens; serum separator tube (SST) or red-top tube without anticoagulant for serum specimens; blood culture bottles (aerobic and anaerobic sets) for blood specimens
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
0–120 years
Method
organism-specific-culture
CPT
87102
SNOMED
415125003
Specimen volume
Serum: 1-2 mL minimum; Blood culture: 8-10 mL per bottle (adult); Swabs: single swab in transport medium; Tissue: 1-2 cm³ in sterile container
Stability
Serum: Room temperature 2 hours, refrigerated (2-8°C) up to 24 hours, frozen (-20°C) unacceptable for culture. Blood culture bottles: Room temperature up to 24 hours prior to incubation. Swab specimens in transport medium: Room temperature up to 24 hours, refrigerated up to 48 hours.
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
48–240 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss, especially if you’ve recently taken antibiotics or have a weakened immune system. It may also be used to monitor for fungal infections in people with conditions like diabetes, HIV, or organ transplants.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications (like probiotics) that could interfere with results. Bring a recent stool sample to your appointment.

What the Test Involves

A healthcare provider collects a stool sample, which is sent to a lab. The sample is grown in a controlled environment to see if *Candida* yeast is present. Results may take several days to a week.

What the Results Mean

Positive results indicate that *Candida* yeast was found in your stool. This doesn’t always mean you have an infection—some people carry *Candida* harmlessly. Your doctor will discuss next steps based on symptoms and further testing.

Reference range

Negative: No Candida species isolated. Positive: Candida species identified with organism-specific designation (e.g., C. albicans, C. glabrata, C. tropicalis, C. parapsilosis, C. krusei, C. auris). Result reported as organism-specific identification with colony count quantification when applicable.N/A

Specimen: serum

No special patient preparation required for serum specimen collection. For suspected candidemia, collection prior to antifungal therapy initiation is preferred. Disinfection of venipuncture site with chlorhexidine or alcohol-based antiseptic is essential to prevent contamination. Skin and mucosal specimens should be collected from active lesion sites before application of topical antifungals or antiseptics.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Stool Culture for Fungal Infections

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean for my health?
A positive stool culture for *Candida* suggests the fungus may be overgrowing in your digestive system. While some people carry *Candida* without issues, persistent growth could indicate a fungal infection (e.g., candidiasis) or a condition that weakens your immune system. Your doctor will evaluate symptoms and may recommend additional tests or treatment.
How long will I need to wait for results?
Results typically take 3–7 days, depending on lab processing. If urgent, your doctor may request a faster screening test (like a blood or urine culture) instead.
Can I take probiotics before or after this test?
Probiotics may interfere with stool culture results. Ask your doctor whether to avoid them for a few days before testing, but follow their guidance based on your specific situation.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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