ARUP's Laboratory Test Directory

Acid-Fast Bacillus (AFB) Identification with Reflex to Susceptibility : 0060997

Mnemonic: MC AFBIS

Methodology: Identification/Susceptibility
Performed: Sun-Sat
Reported: Varies (depends on organism growth)
Specimen Required: Collect: Actively growing organism, in pure culture.

Specimen Preparation: Transport sealed container with pure culture on solid or in liquid media. Place each specimen in an individually sealed bag.

Storage/Transport Temperature: Room temperature.

Submit specimen according to Infectious Substance, Category A, shipping guidelines.


Remarks: Indicate source of organism and any other pertinent information such as growth rate of the organism or DNA probe results.

Unacceptable Conditions: Mixed cultures or non-viable organisms. Organisms submitted on agar plate.

Stability (collection to initiation of testing): Ambient: 2 weeks; Refrigerated: 2 weeks; Frozen: 2 weeks

Reference Interval:
Complete identification and susceptibility of clinically significant isolates.
Note: If a significant organism is identified, then the appropriate susceptibility panel will be added. Additional charges apply.

A handling fee will be billed for all organisms submitted that are not in pure culture as requested in the specimen requirements. Identification of AFB isolates is billed by individual probes and tests performed.
CPT Code(s): CPT codes for identification and susceptibility vary based on method.
Cross References: Acid-fast Organism Identification by DNA Probe and/or Sequencing With Reflex to Susceptibility (AFB Identification with Reflex to Susceptibility) , Identification, Mycobacteria (AFB Identification with Reflex to Susceptibility)