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Mycobacterium Skin Culture (Tuberculosis or Other Mycobacterial Pathogens)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test checks for the presence of bacteria in your skin that may cause infections, including tuberculosis or other mycobacterial diseases. It helps healthcare providers diagnose infections that standard tests might miss.

Quick summary

["A skin culture can help identify if you have a mycobacterial skin infection requiring targeted treatment."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
107177-8
Short code
Mycobacterium Skin Cult
Synonyms
Mycobacterium Skin Cult
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
organism-specific-culture
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What This Test Measures

A sample of your skin is collected and examined under a microscope or grown in a lab to detect the presence of mycobacteria. This includes identifying specific strains that may cause infections, such as *Mycobacterium tuberculosis* or other atypical mycobacteria.

How the Test Is Performed

A healthcare provider will clean the affected skin area and take a small sample using a swab or needle. The sample is then sent to a lab where it is cultured over several weeks to allow bacterial growth. Results may take up to several weeks or longer.

Why It Might Be Ordered

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have persistent skin lesions, unexplained rashes, or symptoms like fever, fatigue, or weight loss that suggest an infection caused by mycobacteria. It is also used in cases where other tests (like blood cultures or PCR) are inconclusive.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may need to avoid applying lotions, creams, or ointments to the test area the day before the procedure. If you have open wounds, inform your doctor beforehand.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Skin Culture for Mycobacteria

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results from a skin culture?
Results typically take 2 to 6 weeks or longer, depending on the lab and growth conditions. Some labs may provide preliminary findings sooner, but final confirmation often requires waiting for bacterial growth.
Can I take antibiotics before my skin culture?
If you are prescribed antibiotics, it’s important to complete the full course as directed by your doctor. However, if you suspect a mycobacterial infection, inform your healthcare provider before starting any antibiotics, as they may affect the accuracy of the culture results.
What if my skin culture comes back negative but I still have symptoms?
If you continue to experience symptoms despite a negative culture, your doctor may order additional tests, such as a different type of culture, imaging studies, or other diagnostic tests to identify the cause of your symptoms.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy