AFB C/S (Nasal Swab for Mycobacterium Tuberculosis)

Specimen Required

Nasal Swab

Fasting Required

Purpose of the Test

An AFB C/S test on a nasal swab may be requested if a person has symptoms of tuberculosis, such as coughing, fever, and weight loss, or if they have been in close contact with someone who has active tuberculosis. The test may also be requested if a person has a positive result on a tuberculosis screening test.

When this test is required

The AFB C/S test on a nasal swab may be requested if the healthcare provider suspects that tuberculosis is present in the nasal passages or if the individual is unable to produce a sputum sample for testing. The test may also be requested if a person has a positive result on a tuberculosis screening test.

What the Test Detects

The AFB C/S (acid-fast bacilli culture and sensitivity) test on a nasal swab is used to detect the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacterium that causes tuberculosis, in the nasal passages.

Preparation for the Test

There are usually no special preparations required for the AFB C/S test on a nasal swab. However, it is important to follow the healthcare provider’s instructions for collecting the sample to ensure that the sample is of good quality and can be accurately tested. The provider may recommend avoiding food or drink for a certain amount of time before the test to minimize contamination of the sample.

Sample Requirements

The AFB C/S test on a nasal swab requires a sample of mucus from the nasal passages, which is collected using a sterile swab.

Additional Notes

It is important to collect a good quality sample for accurate testing. The healthcare provider may provide instructions on how to collect the sample, including using a sterile swab to obtain mucus from the nasal passages. In some cases, other tests, such as a chest X-ray or a tuberculin skin test, may also be needed to confirm a diagnosis of tuberculosis. It is important to follow the healthcare provider’s instructions for treatment and to complete the full course of antibiotics to prevent the spread of the disease and avoid the development of drug-resistant tuberculosis.

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