We have isolated a mycobacterium strain from patient sputum using an NTM Elite plate.
When inoculated into an MGIT tube, we observe fluorescence when observed under UV light, which means it is highly likely to be a mycobacterium.
We have assumed it is M. abscessus since M abscessus has been grown from the same patient in the past. But what would be the easiest way to verify that?
Would the answer be different if we needed to know the subspecies, like M abscessus bolletii?
We are a small lab with limited equipment, so if the best solution is to use a service provider, we would also be open to that.