Sputum: Mycobacterium abscessus – Shipped November 02, 2020
HISTORY
A simulated sputum sample collected from a 44 year old with cystic fibrosis patient with purulent sputum was sent to category A laboratories. Participants were expected to isolate, identify, and report the presence of Mycobacterium abscessus.
MAIN EDUCATIONAL POINTS from M203-2
- Rapid growing mycobacteria may be isolated in bacteriology laboratories.
- Mycobacterium abscessus is an important cause of respiratory infection in patients having cystic fibrosis.
- Rods having a beaded gram positive appearance on Gram stain may be acid fast or partially acid fast.
