Mycobacterium blood

Pathology category

Microbiology - Referred samples

Code

MAC

Referral code

Request form

MAC request can be found on ICE. In addition to clinical details and date of onset, it is important to include any history of cardiac surgery or ECMO with relevant dates.

Test information

The test is a culture of blood for mycobacterium species; including mycobacterium tuberculosis and mycobacterium chimaera. Please also send early morning urine or tissue samples where appropriate in addition to bloods as per local guidelines.

Guidelines

Pre-analytical

Samples should be sent to the lab as soon as possible without delay.For more information, please refer to government guidelines.

Reference range

Tube type

Tube type info

3 x light blue-topped citrated blood tubes

Special requirements

3 sets of tubes (3 tubes each set) are required. These are to be taken on different days. Please refer to PHE website for latest guidelines.

Minimum volume

Assay frequency

TAT Inpatient (urgent)

TAT Inpatient

10 weeks

TAT GP/Outpatient

Referral lab