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What does this fluctuation in AFB sputum tests in a short time mean?

Posted by paxmundi @paxmundi, 3 days ago

Got my latest sputum test. I am curious as to the fluctuation of my acid fast bacilli if anyone can weigh in. This last report was discouraging. Though Nocardia didn't appear for a second time. (Three samples but only the first showed Nocardia)> I am wondering if that is because the most recent test is less sensitive.

AFB CULT
Value
Normal Range
Mar 17, 2025
Final Report Mycobacterium avium isolated . Stains/Preparations Many Acid Fast Bacilli seen on smear.

Feb 6, 2025
Final Report Mycobacterium avium isolated . Stains/Preparations No Acid Fast Bacilli seen on smear.

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cwal | @cwal | 1 day ago
In reply to @sueinmn "Every lab reports differently, so it is hard to say. Also, the amount of detail can..." + (show)
@sueinmn

Every lab reports differently, so it is hard to say. Also, the amount of detail can depend on the codes the Practitioner used in ordering the labs and the sophistication of the testing at each individual lab.

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It is my understanding that the capabilities of each facility's lab varies. Probably due to the complexity and expense of testing for the many types of MAC and the other various results such as the sensitivities, 1+,2+ etc. At the facility I go to they are not able to provide this info even though they are a teaching hospital. If they need to get more indepth testing the sample must be sent to NJH.

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blm1007blm1007 | @blm1007blm1007 | 1 day ago
In reply to @sueinmn "Every lab reports differently, so it is hard to say. Also, the amount of detail can..." + (show)
@sueinmn

Every lab reports differently, so it is hard to say. Also, the amount of detail can depend on the codes the Practitioner used in ordering the labs and the sophistication of the testing at each individual lab.

Jump to this post

Thanks Sue.
Yes Dr. Daily indicated only a couple of labs can do what NJH does, detail the type of MAC such as my MAI that they found in OCT. 2023.
Interesting, had not thought of that fully until you said, "Also, the amount of detail can depend on the codes the Practitioner used in ordering the labs". So it would probably be helpful to ask, if the doctor did not indicate to the patient, what they are requesting the lab to detail. That would help the patient for greater understanding then and when the results are shown.
Barbara

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