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Candida species culture (from blood)

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

This test checks for the presence of yeast or mold (such as Candida) in your blood, which may indicate an infection.

Quick summary

["Blood cultures help identify serious fungal infections that require prompt medical attention."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
6349-5
Short code
C trach Spec Ql Cult
Synonyms
C trach Spec Ql Cult
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
organism-specific-culture
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, chills, or unexplained infections, especially if you have a weakened immune system, recent surgery, or a medical condition that increases your risk of blood infections.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll have two small tubes inserted into your arm to draw blood. The blood is then sent to a lab to grow fungal cultures. Results can take several days to a week.

What the Test Results Mean

Positive results show the presence of Candida or other fungi in your blood, confirming an infection. Negative results mean no fungi were detected in the sample.

Common Causes of Positive Results

Positive results often occur in people with weakened immune systems (e.g., from HIV/AIDS, chemotherapy, or organ transplants), long-term antibiotics, or recent invasive procedures.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Blood Culture for Fungal Infections

Frequently asked questions

What are the typical symptoms of a fungal blood infection?
Symptoms may include high fever, rapid heartbeat, confusion, or persistent chills. Some people with severe infections may also experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or skin rashes.
How long does it usually take to get results from a blood culture?
Results can take between 3 to 7 days, depending on the lab’s processing time and whether the culture grows fungal organisms. Your doctor may request additional tests if needed.
Can I take antibiotics before my blood culture?
No, antibiotics can interfere with the test. If you’ve recently taken antibiotics, your doctor may need to adjust your test plan or use alternative methods.
  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