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HelpTest Code MAS Acid Fast Bacilli (AFB) Smear
Infectious
Specimen Requirements
Submit only one of the following
Specimen Type: Tissues, biopsies
Container/Tube: Sterile screw-capped container
Volume: As much as possible
Minimum Volume: 1.0g
Specimen Type: Body fluids, aspirates,
secretions
Container/Tube: Sterile screw-capped container
Volume: 10.0mL
Minimum Volume: 2.0mL
Specimen Type: Swab (varied sources)
Container/Tube: eSwab, M40 transystem Amies agar
transport media (Copan)(for non-NUH patients)
Volume: Entire swab
Collection Instructions: Do not share with other
tests.
Please refer to Test Catalogue -> Test Collection Information -> eSwab Training Slides
Sample Stability
Preferred temperatures for storage prior to and during shipping to NUH
| Specimen Type: | All Types |
|---|---|
| Ambient: | Submit sample to lab immediately |
| Refrigerate: | Do not refrigerate sample |
| Frozen: | Unacceptable |
Reference Interval
Acid Fast Bacilli not seen on direct smear
Call back values: Requesting clinician/ location will be informed of positive result
Days and Times Performed
Monday through Sunday, TAT 1 day
Methodology
Microscopy
Service Code
23205
Update
Last updated 11/10/2021
Unacceptable Condition
AFB smear will not be done for stool, urine, blood.
Testing Laboratory
National University Hospital
Clinical Microbiology, 67724343
Useful For
Presumptive diagnosis of Mycobacterium infection