What is the Candida (Culture – Groin) Test?

The Candida (Culture – Groin) test is a laboratory culture test used to detect the presence of Candida species from a groin swab sample. Candida is a type of yeast that normally lives on the skin but can overgrow in warm, moist areas, leading to infection.

By culturing the sample, the laboratory can confirm whether Candida is present and actively growing. This method helps distinguish fungal infection from bacterial or non-infectious skin conditions that may cause similar symptoms.

This test is particularly useful for diagnosing persistent or recurrent groin rashes where the cause is unclear or treatment has been unsuccessful.

Why do I need a test for Candida (Groin)?

You may need this test if you have ongoing groin symptoms that do not respond to standard treatments or keep recurring. Candida infections can be mistaken for eczema, bacterial infection or contact dermatitis, leading to delayed or inappropriate treatment.

Testing allows accurate identification of a fungal cause, ensuring targeted antifungal therapy and reducing the risk of chronic irritation or repeated flare-ups.

Symptoms and scenarios where testing is recommended:

• Persistent groin itching or burning
• Red, inflamed or scaly skin in the groin
• White or moist patches in skin folds
• Recurrent groin rash
• Symptoms worsening with heat or sweating
• Poor response to antibacterial treatments
• Diabetes or immune suppression
• Recurrent fungal infections

Benefits of the Candida (Culture – Groin) Test

• Confirms fungal infection accurately
  Culture provides definitive evidence of Candida growth.
• Differentiates fungal from bacterial skin conditions
  Prevents unnecessary antibiotic use.
• Supports targeted antifungal treatment
  Ensures appropriate therapy selection.
• Useful for recurrent or persistent symptoms
  Helps explain repeated or treatment-resistant infections.
• Improves symptom resolution
  Accurate diagnosis leads to faster relief.
• Identifies infection in high-risk individuals
  Especially valuable in diabetes or immune suppression.
• Non-invasive and simple sampling
  Uses a straightforward skin swab.
• Supports clinical decision-making
  Provides clarity when symptoms are non-specific.

Step-by-Step: How Testing Works

Choose your preferred testing method

Testing is carried out via in-clinic sample collection.

Option – In-Clinic Groin Swab

1. Attend your chosen UK clinic.
2. A clinician collects a swab from the affected groin area.
3. The sample is sent to the laboratory for fungal culture.
4. Results are delivered securely online once culture is complete.

Access your report

You can download and share your results with your GP or dermatologist for further management.

Your Results Explained

Negative Result

No Candida growth detected.
This suggests symptoms are unlikely to be caused by a fungal infection and may require alternative investigation.

Normal / Expected Finding

An expected result confirms absence of pathogenic Candida overgrowth.
Skin irritation may be due to non-infectious or bacterial causes.

Positive Result

Candida growth detected in the culture.
This confirms a fungal infection of the groin area and supports antifungal treatment.
Recurrent positives may warrant investigation of underlying risk factors.