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Yeast Culture — Isolate Identification

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

A culture test used to detect and identify yeast from a patient sample. Results may help determine whether yeast is causing an infection.

Quick summary

["This test checks a sample for yeast and, if present, identifies the type that can be grown."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
97942-7
Short code
Yeast Texture Islt Cult
Synonyms
Yeast Texture Islt 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
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?

A yeast culture is a laboratory test used to detect and identify yeast in a sample from the area being evaluated. Some yeast normally live on the skin, in the mouth, or in the digestive tract, so a positive result may reflect normal presence, colonization, contamination, or infection.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test when symptoms suggest a fungal infection, such as redness, itching, discharge, pain, or irritation. It may also be used to investigate an abnormal result from another test or to guide treatment when a yeast infection is suspected.

How is the test performed?

A sample is collected from the site being evaluated and sent to the laboratory. The specimen is placed on or in a culture medium, where any yeast present may grow and be identified. If needed, additional laboratory testing can determine which antifungal medicines may work against the isolate.

How do I prepare for the test?

Preparation depends on the type of sample being tested and the instructions provided by your clinician. Do not use antifungal medicines or cleansers shortly before collection unless your clinician specifically tells you to, because they may reduce the chance of detecting yeast.

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 always mean I have an infection?
No. Yeast may be present normally or the sample may have been contaminated. The result must be considered together with your symptoms and other findings.
How long does a yeast culture take?
Results commonly take several days because the laboratory must allow any yeast to grow before it can be identified. Some samples may require additional testing or a longer culture period.
Will the test show which treatment will work?
Not always. If a yeast infection appears likely to require treatment, your clinician may order susceptibility testing on the identified yeast to help select an antifungal medicine.
  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