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Optimisation of acid fast smears for the direct detection of mycobacteria in clinical samples

Lookup NU author(s): Andrew Barrett, Professor John Magee

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Abstract

Aims: Despite its long history, the acid fast smear remains unstandardised. Technical variations in both the preparation of clinical material and subsequent staining mean that smear sensitivity relative to culture may vary from 50% to over 80%. This study assessed the sensitivity of acid fast microscopy at each of five stages of sample preparation and by both commonly used staining methods. Methods: Sputum samples thought for varying reasons to be highly likely to be culture positive were used to prepare a series of smears in which the effects of digestion (liquefaction), concentration (centrifugation), and decontamination (sodium hydroxide) could be assessed, together with a comparison of staining by the auramine/phenol and Ziehl-Neelsen techniques. Results: The most effective method for the demonstration of acid fast organisms in sputum was found to be an auramine phenol stain applied to a liquefied, concentrated sample and examined before the decontamination process. Conclusions: The auramine phenol stain applied to a liquefied, concentrated sample and examined before the decontamination process is the most effective method for the demonstration of acid fast organisms in sputum.

Publication metadata

Author(s): Murray SJ, Barrett A, Magee JG, Freeman R

Publication type: Article

Publication status: Published

Journal: Journal of Clinical Pathology

Year: 2003

Volume: 56

Issue: 8

Pages: 613-615

ISSN (print): 0021-9746

ISSN (electronic): 1472-4146

Publisher: BMJ Publishing Group

URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/jcp.56.8.613

DOI: 10.1136/jcp.56.8.613

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