tb-pcr Test

The TB-PCR is one of the tests that helps diagnose and confirm an infection of Tuberculosis. Tuberculosis is a disease caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis that generally attacks the lungs however possibly can affect other parts of the body. It may cause pulmonary tuberculosis and other infections like ones of the skin and abdomen. It is contracted through the air when people who have the disease cough, sneeze, or spit.

The other widely used tests used in the diagnosis & screening of Tuberculosis infection are:

AFB, smear examinationCulture, Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Mycobacterium antibody panel (TB-IgG, IgM, IgA)Quantiferon TB Goldmantoux test

24 to 36 Hours

The TB-PCR test is ordered to diagnose and detects M.Tuberculosis from other mycobacteria. It also helps monitor treatment for TB.

Symptoms observed and scanned for include:

• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Night sweats
• Chills
• Loss of appetite
• Prolonged and Persistent cough
• Blood in sputum
• Painful breathing
• Painful coughing

When TB severely spreads in the lungs it shows the following symptoms include:

• Chest pain
• Coughing up blood
• Prolonged cough for more than three weeks

Preparatory instructions before the test *:

• No Fasting Required.
• No other special preparations required.

Specimen type: Serum (Blood Sample)

Specimen collection procedure:Venipuncture (Collection of blood from a vein, usually from the arm)