Special stain. Ziehl-Neelsen Acid-Fast Bacilli Stain is used to detect the presence of acid-fast mycobacteria in tissue sections. Acid-fast techniques are of value in the detection of mycobacteria, rod-shaped organisms that sometimes exhibit filamentous (fungus-like) growth. The most significant disease-producing mycobacteria are Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Mycobacterium leprae.
AFB
- Immunohistochemistry (IHC)
Specimen Requirements
Preferred specimen (FFPE block):
A formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue block is the preferred specimen type. Use 10% NBF fixative; do not use zinc or mercury fixatives.
If submitting slides (instead of a block):
Submit the following. All slides cut at 4–5 microns. Please use positively-charged slides and 10% NBF fixative.
H&E slide: One (1) unbaked, unstained slide for H&E staining (required)
Cut Slides: Two (2) positively charged unstained slides for each special stain ordered
Specimen identification:
Block and slide identifiers should be clearly written and match exactly with the specimen ID and specimen labeling as noted on the requisition.
A formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue block is the preferred specimen type. Use 10% NBF fixative; do not use zinc or mercury fixatives.
If submitting slides (instead of a block):
Submit the following. All slides cut at 4–5 microns. Please use positively-charged slides and 10% NBF fixative.
H&E slide: One (1) unbaked, unstained slide for H&E staining (required)
Cut Slides: Two (2) positively charged unstained slides for each special stain ordered
Specimen identification:
Block and slide identifiers should be clearly written and match exactly with the specimen ID and specimen labeling as noted on the requisition.
Storage and Transportation
Slides may be stored at room temperature; transport with cold pack, making sure cold pack is not in direct contact with specimen.
NYS Clients: Please provide Date and Time of Collection.
CPT Code(s)*
88312
Turnaround time
1-2 Days
Global: 2 Days
Tech-Only (stain only): 24 Hours
Level of Service
- Global
- Tech Only
Integrations
Request electronic integrations →
New York Approved: Yes
*The CPT codes provided with our test descriptions are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. Correct CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed.
Biomarkers
Immunohistochemistry (IHC)
| Special Stain | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AFB Stain | |||||
Last Updated: March 19, 2026