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Fungal Culture (from Blood)

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

This test checks for the presence of fungi in your blood, helping doctors identify infections caused by yeast or mold that may require specific antifungal treatments.

Quick summary

["A fungal blood culture helps diagnose serious bloodstream infections by growing and identifying fungi from your blood sample."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
572-8
Short code
Fungus Mar Cult
Synonyms
Fungus Mar 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 fever, chills, or unexplained infections, especially if you have a weakened immune system, recent surgery, or conditions like cancer or diabetes that increase your risk of fungal infections.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may receive an injection to prevent blood clots, and you’ll lie still while a blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab for culture growth over several days.

What Happens During the Test?

The lab will grow your blood sample in a controlled environment to detect fungal growth. Results may take days to weeks, as fungi grow more slowly than bacteria.

What Are Possible Results?

A positive result indicates the presence of fungi, which may guide treatment with antifungal medications. A negative result means no fungi were detected in this sample, but further testing may be needed if symptoms persist.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Blood Fungal Culture

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results?
Results typically take 3–14 days, depending on the lab and whether fungi are present. Your doctor will discuss the timeline with you during your visit.
What if I have no symptoms but my doctor ordered this test?
This test is sometimes done as a precaution, especially if you’re at higher risk for fungal infections (e.g., due to medical conditions or treatments). Your doctor will explain why it was recommended for you.
Can I take antibiotics before my blood culture?
No, antibiotics should not be taken before a fungal culture, as they can interfere with detecting fungi. If you’ve already taken antibiotics, let your doctor know immediately so they can adjust the test or interpretation.
  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