| Acid fast bacilli Smear (088-0009) | |
|---|---|
| Test Mnemonic: | C AST |
| Specimen Requirements: | |
| Collection: | Sputum or respiratory samples in sterile container |
| Container: | Sterile container |
| Minimum Volume: | 3ml |
| Storage/Transport: | Refrigerate, transport as soon as possible |
| Specimen Preparation: | Sterile container in biohazard bag |
| Stability: | 72 hours |
| Causes for Rejection: | Leaking container, samples other than respiratory sources. Specimen container unlabeled or labeled incorrectly. No date and time of collection on requisition form. |
| Reference Range: | No acid-fast bacilli observed |
| Turnaround Time: | Stat: 3 hours; Routine: 24-48 hours |
| Methodology: | Auramine (FA) stain |
| Performed: | Clinical Microbiology |
| Synonyms: | AFB smear; AFB stain; Acid fast Stain |
| Clinical Indication: | Rapid detection of AFB in respiratory samples |
| Patient Preparation : | Airborne isolation |
| CPT 4 Code: | 87206 |
| Note: | Clearly indicate that the smear is of STAT priority on lab order. Notify laboratory prior to transport at 772-3310 or 772-1125. Smears are routinely performed as part of an AFB culture for most specimens. The first positive smear from a respiratory specimen is considered a critical value and the LIP will be notified. |
| When ordering tests for which Medicare or Medicaid reimbursement will be sought, physicians should only order tests that are medically necessary for the diagnosis or treatment of the patient. Components of the organ or disease panels may be ordered individually. The diagnostic information must substantiate all tests ordered and must be in the form of an ICD-10 code or its verbal equivalent. | |