Swab for AFB Smear/ZN Stain

Specimen Required

SWAB

Fasting Required

Purpose of the Test

The test is used to diagnose TB or other related bacterial infections in the respiratory tract or other sites of the body. It helps determine the presence of the bacteria causing the infection and monitor the effectiveness of treatment.

When this test is required

The test may be requested when a healthcare provider suspects that a person may have TB or related bacterial infections. This suspicion may be based on clinical signs or symptoms, such as cough, fever, night sweats, and weight loss, or if the person has been exposed to someone with TB. The test may also be ordered if a person has a positive TB skin test or if they have an abnormal chest X-ray that suggests TB.

What the Test Detects

The Swab for AFB Smear/ZN Stain test is used to detect the presence of acid-fast bacilli (AFB) in a sample of body fluid or material obtained with a swab. AFB are bacteria that cause tuberculosis (TB) and other related diseases. The Ziehl-Neelsen stain is used to make AFB visible under the microscope.

Preparation for the Test

The preparation for the test will depend on the site from which the swab is taken. In general, the healthcare provider will clean the area with an antiseptic solution and then use a sterile swab to collect a sample. The sample will then be sent to a laboratory for analysis. It is important to follow any instructions given by the healthcare provider to ensure accurate test results.

Sample Requirements

The test requires a sample of body fluid or material obtained with a swab, usually from the respiratory tract, but it can also be from other sites, such as wounds or lymph nodes.

Additional Notes

If a person tests positive for TB or related bacterial infections, they may need to be treated with antibiotics. It is important to follow the treatment plan prescribed by the healthcare provider to prevent the spread of infection to others. The test may need to be repeated several times to monitor the effectiveness of treatment. It is important to work closely with the healthcare provider to manage and control these types of infections. Additionally, it is important to follow any instructions given by the healthcare provider on how to collect the swab sample to ensure accurate test results.

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