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Bronchiectasis and lung infection
MAC & Bronchiectasis | Last Active: Sep 10, 2024 | Replies (56)Comment receiving replies
These are different steps in culturing the same specimen. The culture is grown for 4-8 weeks, then inspected under a microscope to see whether NTM is present, and what type. To a trained eye, the types look different; in some cases they can be further identified by genetic testing of the bacteria.
The next step is a "colony count" - if not requested, a number is not expressed - usually recorded as few, some, many...A more exact method is to count the number of NTM colonies growing on the specimen, which is expressed by some labs as an absolute number, and others on a scales (meaningful to your doc as +1 thru +5). This helps indicate the severity of infection, and can help the doc decide whether antibiotics are needed immediately or you can "watch & wait", and sometimes whether Arikayce should be added right away.
The final step is sensitivity testing - antibiotics are applied to the colonies to see which are effective against your "bugs" so the treating doc can decide which ones to use.
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I was able to watch this NTMir webinar in which Dr. Khare explained each step of the culturing process. Very informative. I tried to find a video to share, but unfortunately was unsuccessful. The webinar was August 12th.
How the Lab Works with Dr. Reeti Khare
Anna
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Sue-
Thanks for the detailed explanation. You have learned so very much in what I would consider a reasonably short time, from the time you were finally diagnosed with BE, the infections and the go round of antibiotics.
So far with two different results, one of my cultures received a statement of 7 Colonies and the following months's submission to Tyler stating the +1 both for MAI complex. Here's hoping I am doing right by myself with what I am doing to keep me from hearing....."we need to put you on anti-biotics." As I said before, that will require great thought, a well thought out decision, to start the rountine of antibiotics at my time in life. Now at 81 and 10 months into life. Hope your Sunday is filled with all enjoyable activities.!