| Methodology: |
Standard reference procedures for stain and culture. Identification of AFB is ordered and billed separately. DNA probes are available for M. tuberculosis complex and M. avium-intracellulare complex as indicated. DNA sequencing and other molecular techniques are used for identification. For drug susceptibilities, refer to Antimicrobial Susceptibility - AFB Mycobacteria (0060217).
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| Performed: |
Sun-Sat
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| Reported: |
1-56 days
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| Specimen Required: |
Collect: One of the following: 10-15 mL sputum, 5 mL CSF, 5-10 mL gastric aspirate, greater than or equal to 40 mL urine, greater than or equal to 5 mL body fluid, or tissue. Source of specimen is required.
Storage/Transport Temperature: Specimen in a sterile, leak-proof container at 2-8°C. Place each specimen in an individual sealed bag.
Submit specimen according to Biological Substance, Category B, shipping guidelines.
Remarks: Collection of early-morning specimens of urine and sputum on each of three consecutive days is optimum. Gastric lavage specimens must be neutralized with sodium carbonate if transport is delayed for more than four hours. Indicate if mycobacteria other than tuberculosis (MOTT) are suspected. This may expedite identification. Clients will be notified of positive stain/culture. Acid Fast Stain will NOT be performed on stool specimens, CSF if less than 5 mL, or urine specimens if less than 40 mL; however, these specimens will be cultured.
Unacceptable Conditions: Multiple same-site specimens (more than one in 24 hours), dry material, nonsterile or leaking containers, improper volume of sputum (less than 2 mL) or fluids (less than 1 mL), or material collected and transported on a SWAB.
Stability (collection to initiation of testing): Ambient: 24 hours; Refrigerated: 1 week; Frozen: 1 week
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