AFB DNA Detection by RT-PCR, Sputum near me in Gurgaon

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.

The AFB DNA Detection by RT-PCR, Sputum test uses real-time PCR technology to find out the DNA of these bacteria in a sputum sample. It is especially useful for individuals with a persistent cough (>2 weeks), unexplained weight loss, fever, or other TB symptoms. It is also useful for those with close contact with an individual diagnosed with TB, individuals with weak immune systems (e.g., HIV/AIDS, diabetes, cancer patients, or those on immunosuppressive drugs), and healthcare workers or individuals living or working in high-risk settings (hospitals, prisons, homeless shelters, etc.).

It is noteworthy that the AFB DNA Detection by RT-PCR, Sputum test may not detect TB if the bacterial load is very low or if the sample is inadequate.

Collect sputum in a sterile, leak-proof container with a screw-cap lid. Before collecting the sample, rinse your mouth with clean water. Take two to three deep breaths, then cough deeply to bring up sputum from the lungs. Ensure you collect at least 2 ml of thick, yellowish (mucopurulent) sputum. Avoid collecting only saliva or nasal secretions. As per National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP) guidelines, testing requires two sputum samples. This may include a spot and early morning sample collected on consecutive days or two spot samples collected one hour apart for accurate diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB).

Laboratory test results may vary across laboratories. Do not self-medicate and always consult a doctor to understand the test results correctly. In some cases, repeat testing or additional confirmatory tests may be warranted.

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