Mycobacterium Species Detection (Qualitative, Culture-Based)
This test checks for the presence of bacteria from the *Mycobacterium* genus, which can cause infections like tuberculosis or other lung diseases. It involves growing samples from your body in a lab to identify potential pathogens.
["This test helps doctors diagnose infections caused by *Mycobacterium* species, guiding treatment decisions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 100763-2
- Short code
- Mycobacterium sp comp react interp
- Synonyms
- Mycobacterium sp comp react interp
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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
The test detects live *Mycobacterium* bacteria in your sample. It does not measure specific antigens or antibodies but relies on culturing to identify growth, which confirms infection presence. Results are qualitative (positive/negative) rather than quantitative.
How the Test Works
A sample (often from sputum, urine, or other bodily fluids) is sent to a lab where it is cultured in special media. If *Mycobacterium* grow, they are identified under a microscope or further tested. This process can take weeks.
Sample Collection and Preparation
You may need to provide a sample like sputum (from coughing), urine, or other fluids depending on your symptoms. The lab will prepare the sample for culture and incubation.
Turnaround Time and Results
Results may take 2–8 weeks or longer, as growth is slow for *Mycobacterium*. You’ll receive a qualitative result indicating whether the culture grew *Mycobacterium* species or not.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results suggest an infection by *Mycobacterium* species, which may require antibiotics like rifampin, isoniazid, or other treatments. Negative results mean no detectable growth, but further testing may be needed if symptoms persist. This test is critical for diagnosing tuberculosis or other mycobacterial infections.
Short name
Mycobacterium Culture Screening
Frequently asked questions
Why might I need this test?
What does a positive result mean?
How long does it take to get results?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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