Ascitic Fluid for (AFB Smear/ZN Stain)

Specimen Required

FLUID (All Body Fluid)

Fasting Required

Purpose of the Ascitic Fluid for (AFB Smear/ZN Stain) Test

AFB smear or ZN stain is a laboratory test used to detect the presence of acid-fast bacilli (AFB) in ascitic fluid. The presence of AFB can indicate the presence of tuberculosis or other mycobacterial infections.

When this Ascitic Fluid for (AFB Smear/ZN Stain) test is required

The AFB smear or ZN stain is requested when a patient has symptoms suggestive of tuberculosis or other mycobacterial infections, such as prolonged cough, fever, night sweats, weight loss, and fatigue. It is also requested when a patient has ascitic fluid accumulation, and the healthcare provider suspects an infection in the abdominal cavity.

What the Ascitic Fluid for (AFB Smear/ZN Stain) Test Detects

AFB smear or ZN stain is a laboratory test used to detect the presence of acid-fast bacilli (AFB) in ascitic fluid. AFB are a type of bacteria that are difficult to stain with traditional laboratory techniques because they have a waxy outer coating.

Preparation for the Ascitic Fluid for (AFB Smear/ZN Stain) Test

No special preparation is required for the AFB smear or ZN stain.

Sample Requirements

A sample of ascitic fluid is required for the AFB smear or ZN stain. The sample is usually collected through a procedure called paracentesis, in which a needle is inserted into the abdominal cavity to remove the fluid.

Additional Notes

The AFB smear or ZN stain is a rapid test that can provide preliminary results within a few hours. However, it has a relatively low sensitivity, meaning that false negative results can occur. Therefore, if the healthcare provider strongly suspects a mycobacterial infection, additional testing, such as culture and sensitivity testing, may be necessary even if the initial AFB smear or ZN stain is negative.

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