Fungal Blood Culture (with Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing)

Why This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order a fungal blood culture if you have symptoms of a fungal infection, such as fever, chills, or signs of a serious illness. It’s also used in patients with weakened immune systems, those receiving chemotherapy, or those with prolonged hospital stays where fungal infections are a risk. This test is particularly important for identifying infections that standard blood cultures might miss, such as those caused by mold or yeast that aren’t typically found in routine bacterial cultures.

What to Expect During the Test

The test involves drawing blood, similar to a regular blood draw. A small amount of blood is collected and placed in special containers that support the growth of fungi. These cultures are then incubated for several days to detect any fungal growth. Unlike standard blood cultures, this test requires careful handling to prevent contamination and may take longer to yield results.

How the Results Are Interpreted

Results are typically reported as either positive (growth of fungi detected) or negative (no fungal growth found). If fungi are identified, the type of fungus and its susceptibility to antifungal medications are determined through further testing. This helps guide the choice of antifungal treatment.

Potential Risks and Considerations

While rare, there are some risks associated with blood draws, such as bruising, slight pain, or a minor infection at the site. Fungal blood cultures themselves do not carry additional risks beyond those of standard blood draws, but they require specialized handling to avoid false positives from contamination.