Pre test Information : No Special Preparation Needed

A particular kind of bacteria called acid-fast bacillus (AFB) is the source of tuberculosis and a few other illnesses. The deadly bacterial infection known as tuberculosis, or TB, mostly attacks the lungs. It can also have an impact on the kidneys, spine, and brain, among other body organs. Coughing or sneezing can transmit TB from one person to another.

Both latent and active TB exist. If you have latent TB, your body will contain the TB bacteria but you won't feel ill and you cannot transmit the disease to others. If you have active TB, you will have symptoms and run the risk of infecting others.

AFB tests are typically requested for individuals who exhibit active TB symptoms. The tests check your sputum for the presence of AFB bacteria. The thick mucus that is coughed out from the lungs is known as sputum. It is distinct from saliva or spit.

AFB testing come in two primary categories:

• AFB smear: Your sample will be "smeared" on a glass slide for this test, which will involve a microscope examination. Results may be seen in one to two days. Although they cannot offer a conclusive diagnosis, these results can indicate a potential or likely infection.
• AFB Culture: In this test, your sample is brought to a lab and placed in a particular setting designed to promote bacterial growth. A diagnosis of TB or another infection can be positively confirmed by an AFB culture. The growth of sufficient bacteria to identify an infection, however, takes 6–8 weeks.

Other titles are mycobacteria smear and culture, TB culture and sensitivity, and AFB smear and culture.

Why is a test for AFB required?

If you show signs of active TB, you could require an AFB test. These consist of:

• coughing for three weeks or longer
• coughing up sputum or blood
• chest pain
• Fever
• Fatigue
• sweats at night
• Unaccounted-for weight loss

In addition to the lungs, other body areas might also experience the effects of active TB. Depending on whatever bodily part is impacted, different symptoms are present. Thus, if any of the following apply to you:

• back ache
• urine with blood in it
• Headache
• aching joints Weakness

If you have certain risk factors, testing can also be necessary. You might be more vulnerable to developing TB if you:

• have had regular contact with someone who has been given a TB diagnosis
• possess HIV or a similar illness that compromises your immune system
• live or work in an area where tuberculosis infections are common. These include jails, nursing facilities, and shelters for the homeless.

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