Orderable Name AFB Cult/Smr Acid Fast Bacilli Culture and Smear
Specimen Type
Respiratory, Body Fluid or Tissue.
Sputum – First morning specimen preferred
For Blood: See Mycobacterial Culture, Blood
Minimum Requirements
Respiratory Specimen: 3.0 mL
Body Fluid: 2.0 mL
Container Type/Storage
Sterile Container
No Swabs accepted
Special Handling
Specimen sent to RI Department of Health for Testing
Turnaround Time
Smear - 24-48 hours; Final Culture - 60 days
Methodology
Routine Culture and Fluorochrome Smear.
Reference Range
Negative
CPT
87206
87116