Mycobacteriology False–Positive Case
Studies Learning Module and Toolkit
The latest module of the Essentials for the Mycobacteriology
Laboratory series provides laboratorians an opportunity to
navigate through five real–world cases in which a false–
positive Mycobacterium tuberculosis result may have been
reported. The scenarios include examples of pre-analytical,
analytical and post-analytical processes. Participants will
use this interactive module to help identify and investigate
potential false–positive results.
Access the entire Essentials for the
Mycobacteriology Laboratory series
at www.aphl.org/TBTraining
NEW! CDC’s False–Positive Investigation Toolkit:
A Resource for Mycobacteriology Laboratories
CDC’s False–Positive Investigation Toolkit was developed to provide
mycobacteriology staff with updated resources to recognize potential
false–positive results and to assist staff in false–positive investigations.
TB control programs and healthcare providers may also find this information
beneficial when investigating potential false–positive laboratory results.
• Define false–positive results for MTBC.
• Identify best practices to prevent false–positive results for MTBC.
• Recognize possible scenarios for identifying potential false–positive results.
• Describe the actions necessary to investigate potential false–positive results.
• Summarize how the TB laboratory and the TB Control Program should
collaborate to investigate false–positive results.
• Describe the importance of developing both laboratory and TB Control Program
guidance, policies and educational materials to be referenced by staff when
necessary.
• Identify follow-up actions if a determination of false–positive result is made.
Find the toolkit on CDC’s website
at bit.ly/CDCFPTool
The toolkit includes job aids, posters and
templates that can be modified for local use.