OVERVIEW:
What is the mycobacterium tuberculosis (AFB) C/S lab test?
A mycobacterium tuberculosis (AFB) C/S lab test is a laboratory investigation that detects the presence of mycobacterium tuberculosis or other acid-fast bacilli in the body.
Why is the mycobacterium tuberculosis (AFB) C/S lab test done?
A mycobacterium tuberculosis (AFB) C/S lab test is done in order to:
- Diagnose tuberculosis,
- Diagnose infections caused by acid-fast bacilli,
- Assess the risk of developing mycobacterial infections,
- Monitor the effectiveness of treatment.
What does a mycobacterium tuberculosis (AFB) C/S lab test measure?
A mycobacterium tuberculosis (AFB) C/S lab test detects the presence of mycobacterium tuberculosis or other acid-fast bacilli in the body. Mycobacterium tuberculosis and acid-fast bacilli are rod-shaped bacteria. Mycobacterium tuberculosis causes tuberculosis which is a severe type of lung infection.
Are there any risks associated with this test?
There are no significant risks associated with this test.
How should I prepare for this test?
This test does not require any special preparation.
What diseases are caused by acid-fast bacteria?
Tuberculosis and leprosy are the two diseases that are causes by acid-fast bacteria.
What are the symptoms of active tuberculosis?
Chronic cough, coughing up blood and/or sputum, chest pain, fever, fatigue, night sweats, and unexplained weight loss are the most common symptoms of active tuberculosis.
What happens during this test?
This test requires the collection of sputum and for that you will be asked to cough deeply and spit into a sterile container. You will need to do this for two or three days in a row. This helps make sure your sample has enough bacteria for testing.
A positive test result indicates a probable mycobacterial infection.
A negative test result eradicates the possibility of a mycobacterial infection.
A mycobacterium tuberculosis (AFB) C/S lab test is done in order to:
- Diagnose tuberculosis,
- Diagnose infections caused by acid-fast bacilli,
- Assess the risk of developing mycobacterial infections,
- Monitor the effectiveness of treatment.