Test ID: MTBXP    
Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex, Molecular Detection, PCR, Sputum

Specimen must arrive within 7 days of collection; specimen >7 days will be rejected.

Specimen source is required.

The high sensitivity of amplification by PCR requires the specimen to be processed in an environment in which contamination of the specimen by Mycobacterium tuberculosis DNA is unlikely.

Specimen Type: Sputum (undigested)

Container/Tube: Sterile container

Specimen Volume:  3 mL

Specimen Stability Information: Refrigerated (preferred) 7 days/Ambient 72 hours

Additional Information:

1. If a single specimen is being shared between mycobacteria culture, acid-fast smear, and/or M tuberculosis PCR, a minimum volume of 3 mL for respiratory specimen is required. Specimen volumes less than indicated may decrease sensitivity of testing.

2. If insufficient volume is submitted, test or tests will be canceled.

Specimen Type: N-acetyl-l-cysteine/sodium hydroxide (NALC/NaOH)-digested sputum

Container/Tube: Sterile container

Specimen Volume: 3 mL

Collection Instructions:

1. Submit digested specimen treated with NALC/NaOH.

2. Clearly indicate on container and order form that specimen is a digested specimen.

Specimen Stability Information: Refrigerated 7 days

Additional Information:

1. If a single specimen is being shared between mycobacteria culture, acid-fast smear, and/or M tuberculosis PCR, a minimum volume of 3 mL for respiratory specimen is required. Specimen volumes less than indicated may decrease sensitivity of testing.

2. If insufficient volume is submitted, test or tests will be canceled.