Test Directory
Pleural fluid for TB
Containers - Adult
Plain Sterile Universal Container
|
Volume Range
1 - 20 ml |
Containers - Child
|
Plain Sterile Universal Container
|
Volume Range
As adult |
Laboratory Site
Old Dalkeith Road
Edinburgh
EH16 4SA
Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh
Little France Crescent
Edinburgh EH16 4SA
Transport arrangements
Transport as soon as is practicable.
Sample storage arrangements
If delay in transporting, store in the fridge (4-6°C).
Special instructions for collection
Useful:
In patients where there is suspicion of pleural (extra-pulmonary) TB.
How to request
Via Trak ("Mycobacteria TB Ix - Fluids" then specify "Fluid, pleural Mycobact"). Alternatively, order via request form.
Availability
0900-1700 Mon - Fri. Contact Duty Microbiologist for OOH microscopy requests.
Anticipated turnaround
Microscopy: 1 day. Culture: 4 - 6 weeks.
What happens if the result is positive or abnormal
Telephoned by Microbiologist
General additional information
It should be noted that pleural or pericardial fluid are not very sensitive samples for the detection of M. tuberculosis, and that a concurrent pleural or pericardial biopsy taken with the fluid is more useful. A negative result on these fluids does not rule out the diagnosis.
For further information, please see Scottish Mycobacteria Reference Laboratory