AFB Culture
Also known as Afb Culture BloodWhat is this test?
There are more than 70 species of mycobacteria of which the primary pathogen is M. tuberculosis. Tuberculosis is a chronic, granulomatous disease caused by M. tuberculosis. Identification, and, if appropriate, antibiotic sensitivity, is required to initiate necessary therapy. A few different tests may be used to help identify AFB as the cause of an infection: An AFB smear is used as a rapid test to detect mycobacteria that may be causing an infection such as tuberculosis. However, this rapid test is less sensitive than culture to diagnosis a mycobacterial infection. Acid- Fast Bacilli (AFB) smear and culture are two separate tests always performed together at the MSPHL, Tuberculosis (TB) Unit. AFB smear refers to the microscopic examination of a fluorochrome stain of a clinical specimen.
Also known as Acid Fast Bacilli Culture Blood, Acid Fast Bacilli Culture.
Test Preparation
No special preparation is needed for AFB Culture. Inform your doctor if you are on any medications or have any underlying medical conditions or allergies before undergoing AFB Culture. Your doctor depending on your condition will give specific instructions.
Understanding your test results
| Gender | Age groups | Value |
| UNISEX | All age groups | A positive culture is seen in cases of Tuberculosis |