Acid-Fast Bacillus (AFB) Identification
Also known as: MC AFBID
Use
The Acid-Fast Bacillus (AFB) Identification test is designed to identify mycobacterial isolates, including speciation within the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex. This test is crucial for diagnosing infections caused by mycobacteria, particularly tuberculosis. It aids in determining the appropriate treatment and management of infected patients by accurately identifying mycobacterial species.
Special Instructions
If PZA susceptibility testing is requested for M. tuberculosis complex isolates, contact your local public health laboratory or the CDC for pncA gene testing for PZA resistance mutations. To speciate the M. tuberculosis complex, enter this information in the comment field and ensure it is shipped as Category A infectious substance following the appropriate guidelines.
Limitations
The test has certain limitations, including the rejection of mixed cultures or nonviable organisms and those submitted on agar plates. It cannot perform the PZA susceptibility test for M. tuberculosis complex isolates; for this, additional testing is required through public health laboratories or the CDC. The performance characteristics of the test have been determined by ARUP Laboratories, but it is not cleared or approved by the FDA.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 543-9
Result Turnaround Time
Not provided.
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Cultured Cells
Volume
Not provided
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Collection Instructions
Collect actively growing organism, in pure culture. Place each specimen in an individually sealed bag and transport with pure culture on solid or in liquid media.
Storage Instructions
Transport at room temperature. If cultures are suspected to be of microorganisms listed as infectious substances affecting humans, submit according to Infectious Substance, Category A, shipping guidelines.
Causes for Rejection
Mixed cultures or nonviable organisms. Organisms submitted on an agar plate.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 2 weeks |
| Refrigerated | 2 weeks |
| Frozen | 2 weeks |