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Yeast, Specimen — Qualitative Culture

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

A culture test that checks a specimen for the presence of yeast. Results may help identify a yeast infection when combined with symptoms and other findings.

Quick summary

["A positive culture means yeast was found in the tested specimen, but it must be interpreted with your symptoms and the specimen source."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
18482-0
Short code
Yeast Spec Ql Cult
Synonyms
Yeast Spec Ql Cult
Category
liver
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
organism-specific-culture
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

What is this test?

This qualitative culture test checks whether yeast can be detected or grown from a specimen submitted by your healthcare provider. The specimen source depends on the clinical situation and may include skin, respiratory material, urine, stool, or another sample.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test to evaluate a suspected fungal infection, especially when you have symptoms such as redness, itching, discharge, irritation, pain, or fever. It may also be used to identify the type of yeast causing an infection.

How is the test performed?

The laboratory places a small amount of the specimen onto or into a culture system and observes it for yeast growth. If yeast grows, the organism may be identified and, when needed, tested for susceptibility to antifungal medicines.

How do I prepare for the test?

Preparation depends on the specimen being tested. Follow your clinician's collection instructions exactly, including any request to stop antibiotics or antifungals beforehand. Do not stop prescribed medicines without medical advice.

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

Yeast culture

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive yeast culture mean I have a yeast infection?
Not always. Yeast may be present as normal flora or as a contaminant, depending on the specimen and your symptoms. Your clinician will interpret the result in the context of the test's purpose.
What kinds of specimens can be tested?
The tested specimen depends on the order and the clinical situation. Examples include skin, respiratory samples, urine, stool, blood, and material from suspected infection sites.
Will yeast culture identify the specific type of yeast?
Often, yes. The laboratory may identify the organism and, if needed, perform susceptibility testing to determine which antifungal medicines are likely to work.
  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