Fungal Culture from Deep Tissue or Body Fluid
This test involves growing microorganisms (such as fungi) from a sample taken from deep within your body, like tissue or fluid, to identify any infections.
["A fungal culture helps diagnose infections that standard tests may miss."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 106039-1
- Short code
- Fungus Deep Wnd Cult
- Synonyms
- Fungus Deep Wnd 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
- 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 Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like persistent fever, unexplained pain, or signs of infection in deep tissues (e.g., bones, joints, or organs) that aren’t explained by other tests. It’s also used when fungal infections are suspected but initial blood or urine tests are inconclusive.
What Does the Test Involve?
Growth and Analysis: The lab monitors the sample for fungal growth. If fungi are present, they are identified based on their appearance, growth patterns, and sometimes genetic testing. Results may take several days to weeks to confirm.
What Are Possible Results?
If fungi are found, the type and sensitivity to treatments (if applicable) are reported. If no fungi are detected, the result is negative. Results help guide treatment decisions, such as antifungal medications.
What Are the Risks?
Risks include minor discomfort or infection at the sample collection site, or potential allergic reactions to lab procedures. Rarely, deeper infections may occur if the sample isn’t sterile.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Fungal cultures are critical for diagnosing deep-seated fungal infections, such as those caused by *Candida*, *Aspergillus*, or other opportunistic fungi. Accurate identification ensures appropriate antifungal therapy, which can prevent complications like organ damage or systemic spread.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from a fungal culture?
What if my initial tests didn’t show a fungal infection but this test does?
Can I take antibiotics before this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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