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Induced sputum test: What do these results mean?

MAC & Bronchiectasis | Last Active: Sep 12, 2021 | Replies (3)
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@montsi

The acid Fast Smear for Mycobacterium reported as negative. How does this relate to whether or not I have MAC? This result came back in a day. Doesn't the lab have to culture the sputum sample to determine if MAC is present?

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Replies to "The acid Fast Smear for Mycobacterium reported as negative. How does this relate to whether or..."
Sue, Volunteer Mentor | @sueinmn | Sep 12, 2021

At first when I was diagnosed for MAI, I had exactly the same question, because the pulmonologist told me it would take 2-6 weeks to see the results, but my "patient portal" notified me of results in a day. Here is what I learned:

The AFB is the "quick test" - in severe cases it will show MAC, but often not. It can also reveal other lung infections so it is a useful tool. Usually, the lab goes on to do a culture (or sends it out for a culture) based on the physician's orders.

If you are concerned about whether this is being done, you can call the provider's office and ask. Have you had MAC in the past?

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