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Fungal Culture from Skin Scraping (Trichophyton spp.)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test checks for the presence of *Trichophyton* fungi, a common cause of ringworm or athlete’s foot, by growing samples from your skin.

Quick summary

["A positive result may indicate a fungal infection needing treatment."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
102968-5
Short code
Trichophyton IgG RAST
Synonyms
Trichophyton IgG RAST
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
rast
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302774002
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 Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like itchy, red, or scaling skin lesions, especially in areas like feet, groin, or scalp. It’s also used to confirm a fungal infection suspected from symptoms or a positive skin scraping test.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll likely have a small sample taken from your affected skin using a sterile swab. No special preparation is needed, but avoid washing the area with soap 24 hours before if possible.

What Happens During the Test

The swab is sent to a lab where it’s cultured in a sterile environment to grow fungal organisms over days to weeks. Results are typically reported once growth (if present) is confirmed.

What the Results Mean

A positive result shows *Trichophyton* fungi growing, confirming a fungal infection. A negative result means no fungi were detected, but symptoms may still require evaluation for other causes.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Skin Fungal Culture

Frequently asked questions

If you have persistent itching, scaling, or redness despite over-the-counter treatments, this test helps confirm a fungal infection like ringworm. Early treatment with antifungal medications can prevent spread or complications.
How long does it take to get results?
Results typically take 5–14 days, depending on lab processing time. Your provider will contact you once results are available.
Can I take antifungal creams before the test?
No, avoid topical antifungal treatments for 24 hours before testing to ensure accurate results.
If *Trichophyton* is confirmed, your provider will prescribe oral or topical antifungal medications. Follow-up may include retesting after treatment to ensure the infection clears.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy