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HelpTest Code MAS Acid Fast Bacilli (AFB) Smear
Laboratory Code
LAB266
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: 1.0 g
Specimen Type: Body fluids, aspirates, secretions
Container/Tube: Sterile screw-capped container
Volume: 10.0 mL
Minimum Volume: 2.0 mL
Specimen Type: Swab (varied sources)
Container/Tube: eSwab, M40 transystem Amies agar transport media (for non-NUH patients)
Volume: Entire swab
Collection Instructions: Do not share with other tests.
Please refer to eSwab Training Slides.
Specimen 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 |
Methodology
Microscopy
Days and Times Performed
Monday through Sunday, TAT 1 day
Specimen Condition
AFB smear will not be done for stool, urine, blood.
Reference Interval
Acid Fast Bacilli not seen on direct smear
Critical Values: Clinician will be informed of positive result.
Testing Laboratory
National University Hospital
Clinical Microbiology, 67724343
Useful For
Presumptive diagnosis of Mycobacterium infection
Service Code
23205
LOINC Code Information
72357-7
Update
Last updated 17/3/2025