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Test Code
BIT
Test Name
Blood Culture, Acid Fast Bacilli
CPT Codes
87116
Included Tests
  • Mycobacterial culture
  • Identification and susceptibility testing if applicable. Additional CPT codes may apply.
Expected Turnaround Time
3 weeks
Clinical Utility
Mycobacterial blood cultures should be ordered when there is concern for disseminated mycobacterial infection, which is generally limited to immunocompromised patients or individuals with specific risk factors.
Specimen and Container Info

Specimen: Blood

Collection Container: Green Top (Sodium Heparin) 

Desired Volume: 10 mL

Minimum Acceptable Volume: Lower volumes will be accepted but may impact recovery.
Transport Instructions

 Transport to the laboratory at room temperature.
Stability Requirements

Room Temperature

24 hours

Refrigerated

Unacceptable

Frozen

Unacceptable

Freeze/Thaw Cycles

Unacceptable
Methodology
Culture with reflex to additional methods for identification and susceptibility if warranted
Performing Location
Roble Road Core Laboratory
Alternate Names
  • Mycobacterial Blood Culture
  • Culture for Mycobacterium, Blood
Testing Schedule
Routine, daily
The American Medical Association (AMA) Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes published by HNL Lab Medicine are guidelines and are intended for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the exclusive responsibility of the billing entity. View the Terms.
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