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Yeast and Hyphae, Urine — Semi-Quantitative Microscopy

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

A urine microscopy test that reports the amount of yeast and fungal hyphae, which are thread-like structures that may be seen in a urine sample.

Quick summary

["Detecting yeast or hyphae in urine may indicate fungal organisms, but symptoms and other tests are needed to determine whether this represents infection."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
41865-7
Short code
Yeast Hyphae UrnS Ql Micro
Synonyms
Yeast Hyphae UrnS Ql Micro
Category
liver
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
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
microscopy-light
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302774002
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This test examines a urine sample under a microscope to look for yeast and hyphae. Hyphae are thread-like structures produced by certain fungi, including Candida species.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test if you have urinary symptoms, such as painful or frequent urination, or if another urine test suggests a fungal infection. It may also be considered when symptoms involve diabetes, a weakened immune system, catheter use, or recent antibiotic treatment.

How is the test performed?

The laboratory prepares part of the urine sample for microscopic examination and reports whether yeast or hyphae are present and, when applicable, their relative amount. Microscopy alone may not identify the exact fungal species.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's urine-collection instructions. If a clean-catch sample is requested, clean the urinary area and collect a midstream sample in the sterile container provided.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: urine

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

Urine Yeast and Hyphae Microscopy

Frequently asked questions

What does it mean if yeast is found in urine?
Yeast in urine may suggest a Candida-related infection, but it can also represent contamination or harmless colonization. Your clinician will interpret the result along with your symptoms and other urine tests.
What are hyphae?
Hyphae are branching, thread-like fungal structures. Finding them with yeast in urine can support the presence of certain fungi, although microscopy cannot always determine the exact species.
Does a positive result always mean I need treatment?
No. Treatment may not be necessary if the finding represents contamination or is not causing symptoms. Your clinician will consider the full laboratory picture and your risk factors before recommending treatment.
  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