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Fungal culture with sensitivity testing (from cerebrospinal fluid)

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

This test checks for fungal infections in your cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and identifies which antifungal medications might work best if an infection is found.

Quick summary

["Helps diagnose and guide treatment for fungal meningitis or brain infections."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
17947-3
Short code
Fungus Spec Cult org #2
Synonyms
Fungus Spec Cult org #2
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

What This Test Measures

The test involves growing fungal organisms from your CSF sample to identify any present. If fungi are detected, this process also helps determine their susceptibility to various antifungal drugs, ensuring the most effective treatment is chosen.

Why It’s Ordered

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like severe headache, fever, confusion, or neurological issues that could suggest a fungal infection in the central nervous system, especially after recent medical procedures or immunosuppression.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A sterile needle is used to collect CSF, typically through a lumbar puncture. The sample is then processed in a lab to isolate and grow any fungal organisms, which are then tested for drug sensitivity.

Common Indications

This test is most commonly used in patients with suspected fungal meningitis, cryptococcosis, or other CNS fungal infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals or those with prolonged hospital stays.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

CSF Fungal Culture & Antibiogram

Frequently asked questions

What Does the Result Mean?
A positive result indicates the presence of fungi in your CSF. The sensitivity report will show which antifungal drugs are most effective against the identified fungi, guiding your treatment plan.
How Long Does It Take to Get Results?
Results can take several days to a couple of weeks, depending on the growth rate of the fungi and the need for additional testing. Your doctor will discuss findings as soon as they are available.
Are There Any Risks or Side Effects?
The lumbar puncture procedure carries minor risks like headache or temporary discomfort, but fungal culture itself is non-invasive and does not typically cause side effects beyond sample collection.
  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