Urine - Afb Culture Random Urine
What is this test?
This test helps to detect and identify infections caused by acid-fast bacilli. This test helps in diagnosing tuberculosis which is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis or any other infection caused by Mycobacterium like leprosy. For this test usually, urine is collected randomly at any time of the day and cultured in the laboratory.
What are mycobacterial infections?
Mycobacterium is a type of germ. There are different kinds of Mycobacterium. Mycobacterium tuberculosis causes tubercular infection. It mostly affects lungs. It can also spread to other parts of the body like brain and spine. The symptoms of tuberculosis of lungs are a severe cough that lasts for more than 3 weeks, sometimes cough with blood, chest pain, feeling tired most of the day, sweating at night, fever with chills, loss of appetite, weight loss, etc. The symptoms of tuberculosis other than lungs, like leprosy, are skin discoloration, thickened skin, skin lesions, skin plaques, skin nodules, nasal congestion, nose bleeds, etc. Mycobacterium infection can spread through the air when the infected person has a cold or flu. When the person sneezes, coughs, talks, laughs, the tiny droplets that contain germs are released. If these are inhaled by the healthy individuals the infection will get transmitted to them.
Why this test is performed?
This test may be recommended to you if you experience certain symptoms like a severe cough that lasts for more than 3 weeks, sometimes cough with blood, chest pain, feeling tired most of the day, sweating at night, fever with chills, loss of appetite, weight loss, etc. This test is also recommended if you have a positive TB blood a test or positive TB skin test. This test is recommended in HIV positive patients because of their weakened immune system. This test is also recommended to people who are in hospitals, nursing home, or correctional facilities. If you experience symptoms of TB other than lungs, then also this test is recommended. These symptoms vary according to the site of infection.
Test Preparation
Inform your doctor if you are on any medications, have any allergies or underlying medical conditions before your Urine - Afb Culture Random Urine. Your doctor will give specific instructions depending on your condition on how to prepare for Urine - Afb Culture Random Urine.
No specific preparation is required for this test.
Understanding your test results
The reference range may vary depending on the gender, age, health history, your condition, etc.
If your test results are negative, then it may indicate that there are no signs of growth of Mycobacterium.
If your test results are positive, then it may indicate that you may have tuberculosis.
If abnormal test results were seen, consult your doctor immediately with your lab test reports.
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