Acid-fast bacilli (mycobacteria) tissue homogenization

TEST DESCRIPTION

Procedure for preparing tissue specimens, particularly biopsy specimens, for subsequent acid-fast bacilli (AFB) culture. Homogenization is necessary to break down tissue structure, thereby facilitating the growth of mycobacteria upon exposure to culture media.

Methodology

Tissue grinding

Reference range

Tissue homogenization performed

TEST FREQUENCY & RESULT AVAILABILITY

Performed daily and typically reported with the AFB smear result within one business day.

ACCEPTABLE SPECIMEN TYPES AND COLLECTION

• Tissue specimens acceptable for AFB culture and/or smear

SPECIMEN STORAGE & TRANSPORT

Refer to the storage and collection instructions for AFB culture.

CODES

CPT: 87176
LOINC: Not applicable
Test code: 3540

TEST FEE

Refer to the current fee schedule.