ARUP's Laboratory Test Directory

0060151: AFB Stain Only

Test Mnemonic: MS AFB
Methodology: Auramine O Stain

Performed: Sun-Sat

Reported: Within 24 hours

Specimen Required:  
Collect: 5-10 mL sputum or other respiratory specimens.  Source of specimen is required.

Transport: Specimen in a sterile, leak-proof container at 2-8°C.  Place each specimen in an individually sealed bag.

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

Pediatric Collection/Transport:

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

Remarks: 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: Nonrespiratory specimens or swabs from any sites.

Stability: 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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