Ordering Guidance

This test is used to identify the subspecies of Mycobacterium abscessus from a known M abscessus isolate.

For the identification of M abscessus (not the subspecies) from culture isolate growth, order CTBID / Culture Referred for Identification, Mycobacterium and Nocardia, Varies.

Shipping Instructions

1. For shipping information see Infectious Specimen Shipping Guidelines.

2. Place specimen in a large infectious container and label as an etiologic agent/infectious substance.

Necessary Information

Specimen source and suspected organism identification are required.

Specimen Required

Supplies: Infectious Container, Large (T146)

Specimen Type: Mycobacterium abscessus isolate growing in pure culture

Container/Tube:

Preferred: Solid slant medium (eg. Middlebrook 7H10, 7H11 or Lowenstein Jensen agar)

Acceptable: Broth medium (eg. Mycobacteria Growth Indicator Tube, 7H9 broth, BACT/ALERT MP or VersaTREK bottle). Note: Broth specimens will require subculture which will delay results.

Specimen Volume:

Solid slant medium: Isolate with visible growth

Broth medium: Greater than or equal to 3 mL of broth culture

Collection Instructions:

1. Organism must be in pure culture, actively growing. Do not submit mixed cultures.

2. Place specimen in a large infectious container and label as an etiologic agent/infectious substance.