Acid Fast Bacilli Stain

Used to detect the presence of acid-fast mycobacteria, rod-shaped organisms that sometimes exhibit fungus-like growth. Significant disease-producing mycobacteria are Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Mycobacterium leprae.

Synonyms
AFB
Turnaround Time
Global: 48 hrs, Tech-Only (stain only): 24 hrs
Methodology
Special Stain
Specimen Requirements

A formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue block is preferred specimen typeorOne (1) unbaked, unstained slide for H&E staining (required) and two to three (2-3) positively charged unstained slides (all cut at 4-5 microns) for each test/antibody orderedBlock and slide identifiers should be clearly written and match exactly with the specimen ID and specimen labeling as noted on the requisition.

Storage and Transportation

Use cold pack for transport. Make sure cold pack is not in direct contact with specimen.

CPT Codes
88312