AFB C/S (Skin Scrapping for Mycobacterium Tuberculosis)

Specimen Required

SKIN SCRAPPING

Fasting Required

Purpose of the Test

AFB C/S (Acid-Fast Bacilli Culture and Sensitivity) test is done to diagnose Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection, which is the bacteria that causes tuberculosis (TB). This test is usually done on a skin scraping sample to detect the presence of TB bacteria.

When this test is required

The AFB C/S test may be requested when an individual is suspected of having TB or has been in close contact with someone who has TB. It may also be requested for individuals who have a weakened immune system or who are at high risk of developing TB, such as those with HIV or those who have recently immigrated from areas where TB is common.

What the Test Detects

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Preparation for the Test

No specific test preparation is needed for AFB C/S skin scraping. However, you should inform your healthcare provider if you are taking any medications that can affect the test results, such as antibiotics or antifungal medications. It’s essential to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions before and after the test to ensure accurate results. You should also inform your healthcare provider of any underlying medical conditions or allergies you may have before the test.

Sample Requirements

To collect the sample, a healthcare provider will scrape the affected area of your skin using a sterile scalpel blade. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for further analysis.

Additional Notes

It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions before and after the test to ensure accurate results. You should also inform your healthcare provider of any underlying medical conditions or allergies you may have before the test. If you have any concerns or questions about the AFB C/S test, you should discuss them with your healthcare provider. It’s important to note that the AFB C/S test is not a definitive diagnostic tool for TB. It’s often used in conjunction with other diagnostic tests, such as chest X-rays and sputum culture tests.

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