AFB Culture
Alternate Names
Acid Fast Bacillus Culture
SoftLab Order Code
CXAFB
Epic Order Name
AFB CULTURE AND AFB SMEAR
Epic Order ID
LAB877
Tests Included
AFB culture and AFB Smear
Laboratory
Raleigh
Additional Test Information
Acceptable Sources:
- Respiratory:
- Sputum, bronchial washings and bronchial brushings in sterile containers with no additives
- Preferred volume is 5-10 ml but less is acceptable.
- Three sputum samples should be collected 8-24 hours apart and should include at least one first morning specimen
- Urine:
- Collect in a sterile container. First morning specimen is preferred
- 24-hour collection is not acceptable
- Stool:
- Collect in a sterile container with no additives.
- Stool for AFB may only be ordered on HIV positive patients
- Blood:
- Other:
- Body fluids, tissues, drainage and aspirates collected in sterile containers with no additives are acceptable.
- Preferred minimum volume is 5 ml but less is acceptable.
NOTE: One per site per every 8 hours.
Sample Type
Varies - see additional test information for details
Collection Container
Sterile container
Collecting Volume
Any
Storage or Stability
Ambient; refrigerated if transport to lab is delayed >1hr. May be refrigerated for up to 24 hours.
Causes for Rejection
E-Swab not acceptable
TAT
Routine smear : available within 24hr. of receipt in the laboratory <p>Preliminary culture result : in 24hr.</p><p>Second preliminary result : in 4 weeks.</p> <p>Final culture result : in 8 weeks.</p>
CPT Codes
87116