Culture Mycobacterium Atypical (Non Tuberculous Mycobacterium-NTM) Test
Short Name: NTM Culture Test
Also known as: NTM Culture, Mycobacterium Atypical Culture, Non-Tuberculous Mycobacteria Test
Culture Mycobacterium Atypical (Non Tuberculous Mycobacterium-NTM) Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹2,925. Uses Automated Fluorescent & Conventional Culture, ICT, Identification by MALDI-TOF on Multiple samples depending on infection site (e.g., Blood, Sputum, CSF, Tissue) samples. Results in Interim reports available at 1 week, 3 weeks, and 6 weeks; final report at 10 weeks. Positive cultures reported early upon identification.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal
Consultant Microbiologist · Reg: 27670
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The purpose of this test is to diagnose non-tuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) infections by detecting and identifying NTM species from clinical samples, enabling targeted antimicrobial therapy and monitoring of treatment response.
- Test Code
- 420
- Price
- ₹2,925
- Sample Type
- Multiple samples depending on infection site (e.g., Blood, Sputum, CSF, Tissue)
- Result Time
- Interim reports available at 1 week, 3 weeks, and 6 weeks; final report at 10 weeks. Positive cultures reported early upon identification.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Automated Fluorescent & Conventional Culture, ICT, Identification by MALDI-TOF
Sample Collection
No special preparation required. Inform your doctor of any medications or recent treatments.
Method: Sterile collection as per clinical guidelines
Laboratory Analysis
Sterile collection procedures must be followed to avoid contamination. Multiple samples may be needed for accuracy.
Report Delivery
Ship samples as per specified instructions (e.g., refrigerated or at room temperature) to maintain viability.
Timeline: Interim reports available at 1 week, 3 weeks, and 6 weeks; final report at 10 weeks. Positive cultures reported early upon identification.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of this test is to diagnose non-tuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) infections by detecting and identifying NTM species from clinical samples, enabling targeted antimicrobial therapy and monitoring of treatment response.
How to Prepare
- Blood/Bone Marrow: Collect 8 mL in Myco F/Lytic bottle, mix gently, ship at 18-22°C.
- CSF: Collect 2 mL in a red top tube or sterile container, ship refrigerated.
- Sputum/Urine: Submit 2 spot morning samples in sterile containers, do not pool, ship refrigerated.
- Tissue/Swabs: Submit in sterile saline in screw-capped containers, ship refrigerated.
- Gastric Lavage: Submit 5-10 mL after overnight fasting, ship refrigerated.
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"Early and accurate diagnosis of NTM infections is essential for timely treatment and to prevent complications, especially in immunocompromised individuals."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Contaminated or improperly labeled samples
- Samples in incorrect containers (e.g., SST gel tubes for CSF)
- Insufficient sample volume
- Delayed shipment beyond stability period
Understanding Your Results
Positive (Growth detected)
Indicates presence of NTM infection. Species identification guides specific treatment. Consult a healthcare provider for management.
Negative (No growth)
Suggests no NTM infection detected in the sample. If symptoms persist, repeat testing or additional diagnostics may be needed.
Consult a doctor if you experience persistent symptoms like chronic cough, fever, or weight loss, or if test results are positive for proper treatment planning.
Limitations
- ⚠Slow growth of NTM may delay results up to 10 weeks
- ⚠Cannot detect all NTM species or mixed infections
- ⚠Sensitivity may vary based on sample type and collection method
- ⚠False negatives possible if bacterial load is very low
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minor pain or bruising at blood draw site
- ●Risk of contamination if not collected properly
- ●Rare allergic reaction to antiseptics used
Interfering Factors
- ●Prior antibiotic or antimicrobial therapy
- ●Contamination of sample during collection
- ●Improper sample storage or transport
- ●Low bacterial load in the sample
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Culture Mycobacterium Atypical (Non Tuberculous Mycobacterium-NTM) Test | TB Culture (Mycobacterium tuberculosis) | AFB Smear Test | PCR for Mycobacteria |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Culture Mycobacterium Atypical (Non Tuberculous Mycobacterium-NTM) Test | Differentiates NTM from tuberculosis; TB culture targets M. tuberculosis specifically. | Quick screening for acid-fast bacilli but less specific than culture for NTM identification. | Faster detection but may not provide species identification or viability assessment like culture. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Culture Mycobacterium Atypical (NTM) test?
How much does the NTM test cost in India?
What are the symptoms of an NTM infection?
How is the sample collected for this test?
Is fasting required for the NTM test?
How long does it take to get the results?
What is the accuracy of this test?
Can this test detect all types of NTM?
Is home collection available for this test?
Who should get this test?
How is NTM different from tuberculosis?
What should I do if my test is positive?
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Reference Laboratory Services
We serve as a reference laboratory for hospitals and clinics across India. Send samples from your facility with same-day pickup, priority processing, and results delivered through our online portal. Competitive institutional pricing available.
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