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.

What do they serve?

AFB tests are frequently used to determine whether a TB infection is current. They could potentially be employed to identify different AFB infections. These consist of:

• Leprosy is a skin, eye, and nerve illness that was previously dreaded but is now uncommon and quickly curable. Skin frequently turns red and flaky and loses sensation.
• a TB-like infection that primarily affects people with HIV/AIDS and other immune-compromised individuals

AFB testing may also be applied to patients who have already received a TB diagnosis. The tests can reveal whether the medication is having an effect and whether the infection is still contagious.

Report Delivery : Same Day Delivery