Test Directory
Sputum for TB
Containers - Adult
![]() Sputum Pot
|
Volume Range
Up to 5ml
Additive per Container
NONE |
![]() Plain Sterile Universal Container
|
Volume Range
Up to 5ml |
Containers - Child
![]() Sputum Pot
|
Volume Range
As adult |
![]() Plain Sterile Universal Container
|
|
Laboratory Site
RIE
51 Little France Crescent
Old Dalkeith Road
Edinburgh
EH16 4SA
Old Dalkeith Road
Edinburgh
EH16 4SA
Telephone (Bacteriology): 0131 242 6021 OOH Bleep 2900
Scottish Mycobacteria Reference Lab
Microbiology Department
Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh
Little France Crescent
Edinburgh EH16 4SA
Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh
Little France Crescent
Edinburgh EH16 4SA
Telephone: 0131 242 6022/3 (Lab) 0131 242 6016 (Office)
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 with suspected mycobacterial lung infection.
Early morning sputum samples (shortly after the patient wakes) have the highest yield. If the patient is not expectorating and mycobacterial disease needs excluded, then induce 2-3 sputum samples on three consecutive days and transport to the laboratory.
How to request
GP comms, via Trak ("Mycobacteria TB Ix - Respiratory(Routine) and specify site), or request form.
Availability
0900-1700, Monday - Friday (RIE)
Anticipated turnaround
Microscopy: 1 day. Culture: 4 - 6 weeks.
What happens if the result is positive or abnormal
Telephoned by microbiologist.
General additional information
For further information, please see Scottish Mycobacteria Reference Laboratory