Fungal culture from a body fluid specimen
This test helps identify and confirm the presence of fungi in your body fluids, such as blood, cerebrospinal fluid, or other bodily fluids, by growing and examining the microorganisms under a microscope.
["A fungal culture can help diagnose infections caused by fungi that may not be detected by other tests alone."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 87979-1
- Short code
- Fungus Plr Cult
- Synonyms
- Fungus Plr Cult
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- fluid
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- culture
- Specimen volume
- 2-5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 300
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, fatigue, or unusual pain that could suggest an infection. It’s also used when you have a weakened immune system or conditions that increase your risk of fungal infections, such as certain cancers or long-term steroid use.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You might need to provide a sample of your body fluid, such as blood or cerebrospinal fluid, depending on where the infection is suspected. If you’re having a lumbar puncture (spinal tap), you’ll need to follow your doctor’s instructions for fasting or avoiding certain medications.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare professional will collect the fluid sample using a needle or other sterile tool. The sample is then placed on a special growth medium in a lab to encourage fungal growth. This process can take several days to a week or more before results are available.
What Happens After the Test?
Once the fungi grow, they are examined under a microscope to confirm the type of fungus and guide treatment. You may receive results within a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the lab’s process.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Fungal cultures are critical for diagnosing serious infections like candidiasis (yeast infections), cryptococcosis (common in immunocompromised individuals), or other systemic fungal diseases. Accurate identification helps determine the best antifungal treatment and prevents unnecessary or harmful medications.
Short name
Fungal Culture (Fluid)
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get the results of this test?
What symptoms might indicate a fungal infection that this test could help diagnose?
Can this test be done on other types of samples besides body fluids?
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