A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z # |
Acid Fast Smear
Test CodeCPT Codes
87206
Preferred Specimen
Minimum Volume
Instructions
Collect specimens in sterile collection container. Collect sputum specimens first morning expectorant. Volumes below minimum greatly increase false negative results. Only 1 specimen per day of collection will be accepted. Have patient rinse mouth and gargle with sterile water or saline prior to sputum collection. Collect specimen resulting from deep cough in a sterile container. If Legionella testing will be included in the tests requested do not use saline as it is inhibitory to Legionella organisms.
Transport Container
Sterile Container
Transport Temperature
Specimen Stability
Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)
Methodology
Microscopic examination; fluorochrome stain(auramine)
Setup Schedule
Daily
Report Available
Reference Range
Clinical Significance
The smear result should be used as an adjunct in evaluating a patient's tuberculosis status, and cultural examination is highly recommended for laboratory diagnosis. Positive smears indicate the presence of acid fast organisms and possible communicability.