AFB Smear, Sputum
Test Name
AFB Smear, Sputum
Home Collection, Lab Visit
Test Code
A0005a
Test Components/ Genes/ Parameters
AFB- TB
Sample Report
Click on Icon
Test Information
TAT DETAILS
Daily by 9pm; Report within 4 hours
PRE-TEST INSTRUCTIONS
NA
CLINICAL UTILITY
To screen TB from clinical specimen
SPECIMEN STABILITY
48 hrs
METHODOLOGY
ZN Staining
STORAGE TEMPERATURE
2-8°C, Do not freeze
SPECIMEN TYPE
2ml sputum in sterile container
Frequently Asked Questions
AFB Smear, Sputum
To screen TB from clinical specimen
You may need an AFB test if you have symptoms of active TB like Cough that lasts for three weeks or more, Coughing up blood, Chest pain, Fever, Fatigue, Night sweats, Unexplained weight loss
In this test, your sample is “smeared” on a glass slide and looked at under a microscope. It can provide results within 24hrs. These results can show a possible or likely infection, but can’t provide a definite diagnosis.
No associated risks
Results indicate presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB).
However, AFB TB culture is needed to confirm the diagnosis. Alternatively, the patient can also go for TB-Genexpert.