Evaluation of a rapid fluorescent staining method for detection of mycobacteria in clinical specimens.

Rapid detection of mycobacterial disease is essential. Using multiple specimen types and concentrations of mycobacteria, we compared two commercial auramine O stains. The more rapid stain permitted consistent acid-fast bacillus quantitation and exhibited less debris staining, and the staining procedure required less time ( approximately 2 min) to perform. These results suggest that the rapid stain may be more cost-effective and efficient for use in clinical laboratories.