Mycobacteriology- Frequently Asked Questions

A: Turnaround time (TAT) for test results dependent on the type of test being done. TATs are identified in each test’s description, which are found in the LTSM Test Menu/Directory.

A: Refer to the submission instructions found in Submitting Mycobacterium Specimens to the DSHS Laboratory

A: Yes. The specimen may still be submitted for testing. Since sputum specimens must be collected over at least three consecutive days, they should be refrigerated before submission and shipped to the Laboratory on ice packs in insulated boxes. 
The sooner specimens are submitted for testing, the better.   
 

A: Ensure the cap of the Falcon tube is securely closed; twist the cap closed firmly but not so much that it cracks. Make sure the cap is threaded properly to the tube. Seal the lid of tube with wrap such as Parafilm to ensure the sample will not leak.

Ensure the specimen tube is securely cushioned inside the secondary container and in the outer mailer to minimize movement of the tubes during shipping. Each of these steps can help prevent specimen spills. 

A: No. If you are shipping specimens to the lab via FedEx, there is no need to use the prepaid labels. These mailing labels should be used only when shipping specimen canisters individually by USPS. 

A: It is likely the specimen needed to be reprocessed due to inconclusive liquid culture results or the growth of background flora in the specimen. In such cases, the specimen must be processed again, which requires another six-week monitoring period. If you have further questions about results, please call the TB Lab.

A: Phone: 512-776-7657 or 512-776-2449 

Email: Mycobacteriology@dshs.texas.gov

A: To view general information about the DSHS TB Prevention program, visit the Tuberculosis (TB) Program webpage. Additional information about TB is available on the  CDC Tuberculosis webpage.

A:  No. The DSHS Laboratory does not test animals for TB or Hansen’s Disease. Please refer to the Texas Animal Health Commission for more information about cattle tuberculosis and reportability of zoonotic diseases.     

A: No. Reports of suspected or confirmed cases of human TB must be sent to local or regional health departments immediately. Call 1-800-705-8868 for immediately reportable conditions. Contact information for local health entities across Texas may be found at IDPS | Notifiable Conditions (texas.gov).

It is the responsibility of providers to notify their local or regional health departments. Reporting forms that are faxed or emailed to the Laboratory may not be forwarded to the correct party.