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Test Description
This test is used to detect the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria that cause tuberculosis and other infections caused by similar bacteria.
Indications of the Test
The test is performed if a person has a positive screening test for tuberculosis, such as a skin test or blood test. It can help determine if a person has active or latent tuberculosis and guide treatment.
Patient Preparation/Instructions
A sample of body fluid or tissue is needed, typically taken from the lungs, liver, or bone marrow. Sputum samples are usually collected, requiring the patient to cough deeply and spit out the material that comes up from their lungs. Alternatively, a biopsy or aspiration may be performed.
Typical reference values
The test is considered positive if Mycobacterium tuberculosis is found in the culture.
Turn around Time
The test results can take up to 6 weeks. Rapid culture tests can provide results within 36 to 48 hours, but these tests are not available in all hospitals.
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