Test Overview
Test Methodology

BD MGIT, Culture

Test Usage

Isolate and identify mycobacteria

Reference Range *

No growth of mycobacteria

* Reference ranges may change over time. Please refer to the original patient report when evaluating results.

Test Details
Days Set Up
Monday - Saturday
Analytic Time

Preliminary results are reported in 12-24 hours. The health care provider will be notified of positive cultures. Negative cultures are reported after 6 weeks.

Soft Order Code
BAFB
Synonyms
  • AFBS
  • Skin Culture, AFB
  • Culture, Skin, AFB
  • Cutaneous, AFB Culture
  • Mycobacteria Culture, Skin
  • TB Culture, Skin
  • AFB Smear and Culture
  • BAFB
  • AFB BTA CULTURE
  • Acid Fast Bacilli Culture, Skin
Laboratory
Microbiology
Section
Microbiology
Specimen Requirements
Collection Instructions

Aseptically collect scrapings or biopsy of skin or lesions. DO NOT SEND SWABS. The portion of the surgical specimen submitted for AFB culture should be separated from the portion submitted for other testing. For optimum recovery, send immediately. If specimen must be stored, refrigerate immediately after specimen collection. May be refrigerated up to 24 hrs; do not incubate. Indicate specimen source and collection date/time.

Normal Volume
Visible scrapings or punch biopsy in sterile tube with 0.5 mL sterile saline. DO NOT SEND SWABS.
Minimum Volume
Visible scrapings or punch biopsy in sterile tube with 0.5 mL sterile saline. DO NOT SEND SWABS.
Additional Information

Test includes: culture and acid-fast smear. Test includes identification of organisms and susceptibility testing of potentially pathogenic organism(s) at an additional charge unless specifically declined. Susceptibilities are performed on the first organism isolated from a patient and at 2-6 month intervals if that organism continues to be isolated while the patient is on therapy. M. tuberculosis susceptibility testing is sent to the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services (MDHHS); although there is no charge for testing, MLabs charges a handling fee for processing and forwarding specimens to MDHHS. M. avium complex susceptibility testing is sent to Mayo Medical Laboratories. Rapidly growing Mycobacteria susceptibility testing performed at UMHS Microbiology Department. A subculture of the isolate is kept by the Microbiology Laboratory for further testing, if necessary. By ordering this test the clinician acknowledges that additional reflex testing will be performed and billed at a separate additional charge if indicated.

Billing
CPT Code
87116 Culture, 87206 Smear
Fee Code
32258, 20203