Ordering Guidance

This test should be used to identify the species within the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex from a known M tuberculosis complex isolate.

For identification of M tuberculosis complex from isolate growth, order CTBID / Culture Referred for Identification, Mycobacterium and Nocardia, Varies.

For rapid identification of M tuberculosis complex directly from a specimen, order MTBRP / Mycobacterium tuberculosis Complex, Molecular Detection, PCR, Varies or MTBXS / Mycobacterium tuberculosis Complex, Molecular Detection and Rifampin Resistance, PCR, Sputum.

Shipping Instructions

1. For shipping information see Infectious Specimen Shipping Guidelines.

2. Place specimen in a large infectious container and label as an etiologic agent/infectious substance.

Necessary Information

Specimen source and suspected organism identification are required.

Specimen Required

Specimen Type: Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex isolate growing in pure culture

Supplies: Infectious Container, Large (T146)

Container/Tube: Growth on solid slant media, eg, Middlebrook 7H10, 7H11 and Lowenstein Jensen; growth in broth medium, eg, Mycobacteria Growth Indicator Tube, 7H9 broth BACT/ALERT MP or VersaTREK

Specimen Volume: Isolate with visible growth on solid media; if broth is sent, 3 mL or more of broth culture

Collection Instructions:

1. Bacterial organism must be submitted in pure culture, actively growing. Do not submit mixed cultures.

2. Place specimen in a large infectious container and label as an etiologic agent/infectious substance.

Additional Information: If subculture to Middlebrook agar medium is needed to ensure purity, turnaround time for results may be delayed.