ARUP's Laboratory Test Directory

AFB Stain Only : 0060151

Mnemonic: MS AFB

Methodology: Auramine O Stain
Performed: Sun-Sat
Reported: Within 24 hours
Specimen Required: Collect: Sputum or other respiratory specimen.

Specimen Preparation: Transfer 5-10 mL specimen to a sterile container (Min: 1 mL). Place each specimen in an individually sealed bag

Storage/Transport Temperature: Refrigerated.

Submit specimen according to Biological Substance, Category B, shipping guidelines.

Remarks: Specimen source required.
Studies have shown that an AFB stain without culture has a poor negative predictive value. An AFB culture request includes an AFB stain and has a much higher predictive value.

Unacceptable Conditions: Non-respiratory specimens. Swabs from any sites.

Stability (collection to initiation of testing): Ambient: 24 hours; Refrigerated: 1 week; Frozen: 2 weeks
Reference Interval:
Negative for acid-fast bacilli.
Note: An acid-fast stain (AFS), as a stand-alone test, without a culture, is appropriate only when following respiratory specimens on previously diagnosed patients.
CPT Code(s): 87206 Acid-fast stain; 87015 Concentration
 
 

 

 

 
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