AAFB Microscopy and Culture
Auramine microscopy and continuous monitored incubation for culture of AAFB.
Indicated in the investigation of:
• Pulmonary tuberculosis
• Extra pulmonary tuberculosis can present as ""cold"" abscesses in almost all sites.
• Lymphadenitis
• Bone and joint, including spinal, tuberculosis
• Renal mycobacterial disease
Further identification and susceptibility testing are provided following referral to Birmingham PHL laboratory
| Tube | Sputum potWhite universal for other samples |
|---|---|
| ID | 3613 |
| Availability | Mon-Fri8.30-5pm |
| Additional Information | Sample type is dependent on the suspected site of infection. Full clinical details are essential to providing correct test conditions Respiratory:BAL, ET secretons, pleural aspirate, tissue biopsy Renal: Early morning urine sample TB Meningitis: CSF Extra pulmonary: dependent on site of disease, include lymph nodes, tissue, pus, gastric biopsies. If in doubt contact laboratory. Tuberculosis is a notifiable disease. |
| Turn Around | Microscopy for AAFB available within 24 hours for samples received from Mon-Fri before 12pm. TAT for samples received weekends and bank holidays will be 3 days Culture 60 days. TAT may be increased if prolonged culture is indicated |
| Send to | LGI Microbiology Department |
| Frequency | 3 early morning samples on consecutive days for sputum and urine samples |
| IP Routine TAT | Microscopy for AAFB available within 24 hours for samples received from Mon-Fri before 12pm. TAT for samples received weekends and bank holidays will be 3 daysCulture 60 days. TAT may be increased |
| GP Routine TAT | Microscopy for AAFB available within 24 hours for samples received from Mon-Fri before 12pm. TAT for samples received weekends and bank holidays will be 3 daysCulture 60 days. TAT may be increased |
