In the context of laboratory results, what status is assigned when a result is pending confirmatory analysis?

• A. Confirmed positive
• B. Presumptive positive
• C. Negative
• D. Inconclusive

Answer: (B)

When a lab result is not yet finished because a second, more specific test is still needed, the result is labeled presumptive positive. This reflects that the initial screening indicates a potential positive, but it isn’t confirmed until the definitive confirmatory analysis is completed. It signals caution and the need to continue investigation or hold procedures while awaiting the final confirmation. It’s distinct from negative, which would mean no evidence of the target, and from inconclusive, which means the result can’t be interpreted yet even after initial testing. A fully confirmed positive would require the confirmatory test to come back positive as well.