AFB DNA Detection by RT-PCR-blood

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by bacteria belonging to the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC). It most commonly affects the lungs but can also involve other organs. TB spreads through the air when a person with active pulmonary TB coughs, sneezes, or speaks. A related group of organisms, known as non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) or Mycobacteria Other Than Tuberculosis (MOTT), are environmental bacteria that can cause lung and other infections, particularly in individuals with underlying lung disease or weakened immunity. Both MTBC and NTM are classified as acid-fast bacilli (AFB) due to their unique cell wall structure, which requires specialized staining methods for microscopic detection.

Your doctor may recommend the AFB DNA Detection by RT-PCR-blood test if you exhibit symptoms such as persistent cough, blood in sputum, fever, unexplained weight loss, chest pain, chills, night sweats, or fatigue. Individuals with recent exposure to TB, travelers to affected regions, those with weak immune systems, healthcare workers, and participants in TB screening programmes can benefit from the AFB DNA Detection by RT-PCR-blood test. This test also helps identify if the symptoms are caused by TB-causing bacteria and non-tuberculous mycobacteria. Additionally, this test helps evaluate treatment efficacy and assess drug resistance. Due to its airborne transmission of these bacteria, early detection is crucial to prevent their spread and potential complications.

The AFB DNA Detection by RT-PCR-blood test utilizes the real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) technique to amplify and detect specific DNA sequences of M. tuberculosis or Non-tuberculous Mycobacteria (NTM/ MOTT) in your blood sample. This qualitative test provides a highly sensitive and specific identification of TB infection, even in cases with low bacterial loads.

No special preparation is required before undertaking the AFB DNA Detection by RT-PCR-blood test. However, it is suggested to inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are currently taking, as some of them may potentially influence the test results.

Test results for the AFB DNA Detection by RT-PCR-blood test are interpreted as either positive or negative. The interpretation of these results may vary slightly between laboratories due to differences in methodology and laboratory guidelines. It is important to discuss your test results with your doctor, who will consider other factors such as your medical history, symptoms, underlying medical conditions, and additional test results to establish a diagnosis of TB disease accurately. 

Please note: This is an outsourced test. The sample is collected by TATA 1MG and processed at a NABL accredited partnered lab.