Yeast Identification, Qualitative — Gram Stain
A microscopic examination used to detect and assess yeast in a specimen. A Gram-stain finding can support evaluation for a yeast-related infection.
["This test looks for yeast in a collected specimen and may help determine whether further fungal testing is needed."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 74759-2
- Short code
- Yeast Spec Ql Gram Stn
- Synonyms
- Yeast Spec Ql Gram Stn
- 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
- gram-stain
- 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 is a qualitative laboratory test that uses a Gram stain to look for yeast cells in a specimen. The stain allows the laboratory to see the amount and general appearance of any yeast present.
Why might I need this test?
It may be ordered when signs or symptoms suggest a fungal infection, such as redness, swelling, discharge, fever, or discomfort. The specimen tested depends on the clinical situation and the instructions from your healthcare professional.
How is the test performed?
A small amount of the specimen is placed on a laboratory slide and stained using the Gram-stain method. A laboratory professional then examines the slide under a microscope and reports whether yeast was observed.
How do I prepare for the test?
Preparation varies by specimen and is generally directed by the healthcare professional or laboratory. Follow any collection instructions carefully, and do not use antibiotics or other medicines unless your clinician has specifically advised you to do so.
Reference range
Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
If yeast is identified, it may represent fungal colonization or a yeast infection, depending on the specimen source and symptoms. A Gram stain can suggest whether yeast is present, but it usually cannot reliably identify the exact yeast species or measure how many organisms are present.
Short name
Yeast Identification by Gram Stain
Frequently asked questions
Does a positive result mean I have a yeast infection?
Can this Gram-stain test identify the exact type of yeast?
Is any special preparation needed before the test?
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy