Mycobacteriology

The Mycobacteriology section uses culture-based and culture-independent methodologies to isolate and identify mycobacterial species from primary specimens. We can detect the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in sputum samples using the Cepheid GeneXpert molecular test and report the presence of acid-fast bacilli upon receipt of a primary specimen.

Species identification from positive cultures is achieved by DNA probe hybridization (M. tuberculosis) or MALDI-TOF mass-spectrometry (Non-tuberculous mycobacterium species). The lab can facilitate a referral for antimicrobial susceptibility testing.

For culture and identification fees, please consult our Fee Schedule.

For more information, please visit the links below:

• https://www.cdc.gov/tb/default.htm opens in a new tab
• http://health.utah.gov/epi/diseases/TB/ opens in a new tab
• https://www.who.int/tb/en/ opens in a new tab

Please refer to the Infectious Disease Client Services Manual opens in a new tab if you have any questions about tests or specimen submission.

You can also call the lab at 801-965-2503 or email katherinewilliamson@utah.gov.