TB Culture

Pathology category

Microbiology

Code

TBN

Referral code

Request form

Test information

Tests performed in a UKAS Accredited Medical Laboratory No. 8873.

Guidelines

Pre-analytical

Specimens are cultured using liquid automated methods apart from bone samples and specimens requiring low temperature culture (28-30oC) which are referred to the Regional Centre for Mycobacteriology Laboratory at Birmingham Heartlands HospitalPositive cultures are telephoned and referred to RCM for identification and susceptibility Urine samples : Complete early morning urines are required in 150 ml containers. Please send daily over 3 consecutive days. DO NOT use 24 hour urine containers. Any materials used in taking these samples must be discarded in an approved clinical waste and/or sharps container. If a delay occurs in transporting the sample to the laboratory, please refrigerate.

Reference range

Tube type

Tube type info

Respiratory samples : Sterile 60ml container (white top) or sterile 30ml universal container Urines 3 X 150ml container – See notes

Special requirements

Sputum, Bronchoalveolar lavage/brushings or washings, pleural aspirate, Transtracheal aspirate, Transthoracic aspirates, Urines

Minimum volume

Respiratory : 5ml Urine 3 X 150ml

Assay frequency

TAT Inpatient (urgent)

Microscopy : 2 days Culture up to 6 weeks

TAT Inpatient

TAT GP/Outpatient

Microscopy : 2 days Culture up to 6 weeks

Referral lab

Local