| Methodology: |
Standard reference procedures for stain and culture. Identification tests of AFB are 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: |
1-62 days
Stain: 24 hours; Final negative after 8 weeks
Positive cultures are reported as soon as detected
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| Specimen Required: |
Patient Prep: 3 sputum specimens should be collected at 8-24 hour intervals (24 hours when possible) and should include at least one first-morning specimen.
Collect: Respiratory specimen.
Specimen Preparation: Transfer (for each collection) 10-15 mL respiratory specimen to a sterile container. (Min: 1 mL)
Storage/Transport Temperature: Refrigerated.
Submit specimen according to Biological Substance, Category B, shipping guidelines.
Remarks: Specimen source required.
Unacceptable Conditions: Multiple same-site specimens (more than one in 24 hours), dry material, or material collected and transported on a SWAB. Specimens other than respiratory.
Stability (collection to initiation of testing): Ambient: Unacceptable; Refrigerated: 1 week; Frozen: 2 weeks
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