Overview
The identification of AFB (Acid-Fast Bacilli) through Sputum Smear Testing is an essential diagnostic technique for Tuberculosis (TB) a serious worldwide health concern. Using this technique samples of Sputum are stained and then examined under a microscope to identify Acid-fast bacilli, the germs that cause Tuberculosis. AFB Smear Examinations are cost-effective simple and widely used particularly in environments with low resources. They yield prompt results for early diagnosis. Early detection of Tuberculosis (TB) is essential for managing its spread starting treatment on time and minimizing transmission. The AFB smear is still a vital tool for TB diagnosis despite being less sensitive than molecular or culture testing.
In order to identify acid-fast organisms like Mycobacterium Tuberculosis the Sputum sample is stained and seen under a microscope. This process is known as microscopy. Positive or negative Smear results aid in determining the patients status of infection and the necessity of prompt medical attention. The actual organisms (AFB) can be detected which helps to regulate the infections severity and stop the spread of Tuberculosis.
No special preparation like fasting is needed for this test. You have to give your sputum sample for this test. The following details will help you understand about the best AFB-Detection By Smear Examination (Sputum) in Jaipur.
What is the AFB-Detection By Smear Examination (Sputum) ?
If the AFB smear comes positive, it means you probably have TB or other infection, but an AFB culture is needed to confirm the diagnosis. Culture results can take several weeks, so your provider may decide to treat your infection in the meantime
What is the Purpose of the AFB-Detection By Smear Examination (Sputum) ?
The most common application of AFB Testing is the diagnosis of active tuberculosis (TB) infection. This test may also be used to assist in the diagnosis of other AFB infections. These include:
- Once feared, leprosy is a rare but treatable disease that affects the skin, nerves, and eyes. Often, there is a lost sense of feeling in the skin and it turns red and dry.
- Mycobacterium avium causes TB-like infection that primarily affects individuals with HIV and other immune-compromised individuals.
- Those who have already been diagnosed with TB infection may also be advised to undergo AFB testing. Tests can determine whether the infection is still contagious and whether the medication is effective or not.
When is an AFB-Detection By Smear Examination (Sputum) Recommended ?
If you have following symptoms, then AFB-Detection By Smear Examination (Sputum) is advised:
- Lingering, chronic Cough that produces phlegm or sputum, sometimes with blood streaks
- Fever, chills
- Night sweats
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
- Weakness, Fatigue
- Chest pain
- Symptoms associated with extrapulmonary TB (the symptoms vary depending on the area of the body that is affected) including Back Pain and Paralysis (Spinal TB), altered mental state, weakness due to Anemia (TB in the Bone Marrow), Headache & coma (TB meningitis), joint pain, or abdominal pain.
Preparation for AFB-Detection By Smear Examination (Sputum)
- Unless otherwise directed by your doctor, there is no need for you to make any special preparations before the AFB-Detection By Smear Examination (Sputum).
- The most often tested sample is Sputum. Phlegm, or thick mucus expelled from the Lungs, is known as Sputum.
What is the Cost of a AFB-Detection By Smear Examination (Sputum) ?
The Price of a AFB-Detection By Smear Examination (Sputum) is Rs. 150. However, cost of the test may fluctuate depending on following factors:
- Other tests advised along with AFB-Detection By Smear Examination (Sputum)
- Offers or discounts
- Empanelment of the patient
Components of AFB-Detection By Smear Examination (Sputum)
- Microscopy: Microscopy is done to examine the sputum sample under a microscope to detect bacteria and infected cells.
- Organism: The sample is then cultured by incubating. The growth of specific acid fast bacteria helps to identify the cause organism behind the infection.
- Result: In result, the identified bacteria is counted.
Interpreting the AFB-Detection By Smear Examination (Sputum) Results
- Positive AFB Smear: AFB smears that are positive suggest a possible mycobacterial infection. To confirm a diagnosis and determine the species of mycobacteria present, a culture must be carried out.
- Negative AFB Smear: A negative AFB smear could indicate the absence of an infection, the presence of an infection but not mycobacteria causing symptoms, or the absence of mycobacteria in sufficient quantity to be visible under a microscope. To enhance the likelihood of detecting the organisms, three samples are often taken.
How is the AFB-Detection By Smear Examination (Sputum) Done ?
- To maximize the chance of finding the germs, it is best to collect three deep cough samples in the early morning on consecutive days in separate sterile cups.
- Three sputum samples are often taken early in the morning on different days for suspected cases of tuberculosis lung infections.
- If you are unable to produce enough sputum for testing, a bronchoscope may be used to collect fluid with a procedure called a bronchoscopy.
- The findings of the test may be impacted by medicines you took before. Inform the medical professional if you have taken antibiotics lately.
- Follow the preparatory instructions as guided by your doctor.
How to Schedule A AFB-Detection By Smear Examination (Sputum) with Dr. B. Lal Lab ?
- Go to the Dr. B. Lal Lab website.
- Go to the “Book a test” tab.
- Select the “Lab Test” tab.
- Type “AFB-Detection By Smear Examination (Sputum)” in the search bar.
- Click on the test.
- The test page with all the test details will show up.
- Click on “Book Now”.
- Login and verify your mobile number with OTP.
- Now enter your details.
- Select date & time for booking AFB-Detection By Smear Examination (Sputum) in Jaipur.
- Check out.
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