Acid-Fast Bacteria (AFB) cultures now available

Began June 1, smears reported within 24 hours

Salem Health Laboratories is pleased to announce that since June 1 Acid-Fast Bacteria (AFB) cultures are now performed through the lab’s microbiology department.

Lab code is LAB 7002 for AFB culture with smear. All smears will be reported within 24 hours and negative cultures will be finalized at six weeks.

For sputum cultures:

• Three consecutive specimens collected at eight to 24-hour intervals.
• One specimen per eight hours will be accepted.
• 24-hour interval preferred.

Questions? Call microbiology at 503-814-1662 (external) or 4-1662 (internal) or email Margaret.Palmquist@salemhealth.org.