Prototheca species culture (from clinical specimen)
This test checks for the presence of *Prototheca*, a rare fungal organism that can cause infections in rare cases, often in people with weakened immune systems or those with certain genetic conditions. It involves growing a sample from your body to identify this microorganism.
["A positive result may indicate a fungal infection requiring medical evaluation and treatment."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 10713-6
- Short code
- Prototheca Spec Cult
- Synonyms
- Prototheca Spec 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 This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fever, skin lesions, or other signs of infection—especially if you have a history of immune disorders, diabetes, or other conditions that increase your risk. They may also order it if you’ve been exposed to soil or water where *Prototheca* is known to grow.
What to Expect During the Test
A small sample (e.g., from skin, blood, or other body fluid) will be collected and sent to a lab. The sample is then grown in a controlled environment to see if *Prototheca* bacteria grow. This process can take several days to weeks, depending on the lab’s methods.
Sample Collection and Preparation
No special preparation is needed unless instructed by your provider. The sample may be taken during a routine visit or procedure, depending on where the infection is suspected.
What the Results Mean
A positive result means *Prototheca* was found in your sample, which may confirm a fungal infection. A negative result means the organism was not detected, but other causes of symptoms should still be investigated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Prototheca infections are extremely rare and typically affect people with compromised immune systems or those with rare genetic conditions (e.g., cystic fibrosis). Early diagnosis is important to guide treatment, which may include antifungal medications. Without treatment, infections can be serious.
Short name
Prototheca culture
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
What if I have symptoms but the test is negative?
Can I prevent *Prototheca* infections?
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