CPT Code:
87116 Culture. CPT codes for identification and susceptibility vary based on method.

Methodology:
Standard reference procedures for stain and culture. Identification of AFB is ordered and billed separately. DNA probes are available for M. tuberculosis complex and M. avium-intracellulare complex as indicated.

Performed:
Sun-Sat

Turnaround time :
Stain: 24 hours; Negative culture: 7 weeks; Positive culture: When detected

Specimen Required:

Collect: 10-15 mL sputum; 5 mL CSF; 5-10 mL gastric aspirate; ≥40 mL urine; ≥5 mL body fluid; tissue.

Transport: Specimen in a sterile, leak-proof container. Refrigerate until courier pickup.
Remarks: Collection of early-morning specimens of urine and sputum on each of three consecutive days is optimum.
Gastric lavage specimens must be neutralized with sodium carbonate if storage and handling is delayed for more than four hours. Indicate if mycobacteria other than tuberculosis (MOTT) are suspected. This may expedite identification.

Unacceptable Conditions: Multiple same-site specimens (more than one in 24 hours); Dry material: Nonsterile or leaking containers; Improper volume of sputum (less than 2 mL); Fluids <1 mL: Material collected and transported on a SWAB.

Stability: Ambient: 24 hours; Refrigerated: 1 week; Frozen: 1 week