AFB Rapid culture by MGIT - Tissue/Biopsy (M)

The AFB Rapid Culture by MGIT – Tissue/Biopsy (M) test is a specialized microbiology test used to detect Acid-Fast Bacilli (AFB), particularly Mycobacterium tuberculosis, from tissue or biopsy specimens. The test utilizes the Mycobacterial Growth Indicator Tube (MGIT) system, a rapid liquid culture method that promotes the growth and detection of mycobacteria more quickly than conventional culture techniques. It is commonly performed when tuberculosis or other mycobacterial infections involving tissues or organs are suspected.

This test is recommended for patients with suspected extrapulmonary tuberculosis or other tissue-related mycobacterial infections. A pure growth of AFB on appropriate culture media submitted in a screw-capped container, or a culture obtained from previously submitted specimens, is used for further processing and identification of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Complex (MTBC) or Mycobacteria Other Than Tuberculosis (MOTT). The results help clinicians confirm infection, identify the causative organism, and guide appropriate treatment when interpreted alongside clinical findings and other laboratory investigations.