OVERVIEW
WHAT IS PERICARDIAL FLUID?
Pericardial fluid is the fluid secreted by the serous layer of the pericardium into the pericardial cavity.
Pericardial effusion is the excess fluid between the heart and the sac surrounding the heart which is
known as the pericardium.
WHAT IS AFB C/S LAB TEST?
The acid-fast Bacilli culture test is one of the TB culture and sensitivity tests where the Mycobacterial infection is diagnosed with pericardial fluid.
TUBERCULOSIS:
Tuberculosis is a lung infection caused by Mycobacterium Tuberculosis. Mycobacterium is called acid-fast bacilli because after an acid wash the bacteria retain the color of the stain. They can then be seen under the microscope.
During a bacterial culture test, an examination is done by growing the bacteria on different substances. The sample is obtained from sputum, blood, urine, or other parts of the body.
WHAT DOES THE TEST MEASURE?
AFB culture helps in the diagnosis of active Mycobacterium tuberculosis infections as well as infections
due to non-tuberculosis mycobacteria (bacteria found in soils and water. AFB culture is more sensitive
than an AFB smear, positive results may take days to several weeks, while negative culture results (no
mycobacterial growth) can take up to 6 to 8 weeks to confirm.
The AFB culture test is reported between 3-8 weeks.
How is this test performed?
A sample of fluid will be taken from the pericardium. This is done through a procedure
called pericardiocentesis. The skin of the chest is cleaned with antibacterial soap. The doctor then
inserts a small needle into the chest between the ribs and into the pericardium. A small amount of fluid
is taken out.
Is there any preparation required before the test?
Before this test, a heart monitor is required to check for heart problems. A chest x-ray or ultrasound is
also required before the test.
What are the risks associated with this test?
Complications are rare but may include:
- Heart or lung puncture
- Infection
What is the difference between tuberculosis and pneumonia?
Tuberculosis is a contagious bacterial disease while pneumonia is not contagious.
INTERPRETATION OF THE RESULT:
- A negative result before any treatment means that the person tested does not have an active AFB infection or that mycobacteria were not present in that sample.
- A negative result several weeks after the treatment indicates that the TB infection is responding to the treatment, and the person is no longer infectious.
- A positive AFB culture confirms the presence of Mycobacterium Tuberculosis
- A Positive result several weeks after the treatment indicates that the treatment regimen is not effective and needs to be changed.
