Mycobacteriology (TB)

The Mycobacteriology Unit of the Microbiology Section performs traditional culture and molecular diagnostics for M. tuberculosis and other Mycobacterium species.  First-line and second-line drug susceptibility testing of M. tuberculosis isolates are referred to the Pennsylvania Bureau of Laboratories.

Those who have symptoms or have been in contact with a known TB patient, contact your family physician or local health department for skin tests or consultation. Specimens for testing must be ordered by your family doctor or health department clinician.

It is recommended that all active TB patients know their status regarding HIV. Testing is available at the Office of Laboratory Service's Diagnostic Immunology Section.

Click HERE for information regarding non-Tuberculosis Mycobacterium (NTM) for healthcare providers.

Click HERE for specimen collection instructions.

Click HERE for a list of acceptable specimens.