Clinical background:
For diagnostic purposes, all persons suspected of having TB disease at any site should have sputum specimens collected for an AFB smear and culture, even those without respiratory symptoms. There are a number of suitable specimens for Mycobacterial culture depending on the site of infection. Full clinical details are vital to providing the correct test conditions.
- Sputum samples: Collect three 8 to 24 hours apart, with at least one being an early morning specimen.
- Blood/bone marrow samples: Send 3-5mls in a Lithium Heparin tube.
- CSF: Ideally submit ≥6 mls to increase diagnostic yield.
Specimen container paediatric:
Sputum, BAL, ETS or other sample in sterile Universal without additives.
Specimen container adult:
Sputum, BAL, ETS or other sample in sterile Universal without additives.
Minimum volume paediatric:
1ml
Minimum volume adult:
5ml
Special requirements:
Send to laboratory as quickly as possible. If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C.
Sample stability:
Stable for up to 24 hrs.
Transport requirements:
Standard
Add on test:
N/A
Quality assurance:
UK National External Quality Assurance Scheme (UKNEQAS)
Interpretation:
N/A
Reference Ranges:
N/A
Factors Affecting Result:
N/A
Referenced Documents:
UK SMI B 40: investigation of specimens for Mycobacterium species
Other Info:
If suspected TB – mark as Biohazard.