Tuberculosis is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria. It primarily affects the lungs but may involve other body parts. Several tests can be used to diagnose tuberculosis (TB), depending on the suspected site of infection. Read on to know more.
This includes:
Also known as the Mantoux test, this test involves injecting a small amount of purified protein derivative (PPD) tuberculin into the skin of the forearm. The doctor will then check the injection site 48 to 72 hours for a raised, red bump, indicating a positive reaction.
These blood tests measure the release of interferon-gamma by T-cells in response to specific TB antigens. Most health regulatory bodies recommend screening for specific high-risk populations, including:
• Those who spent time with the individual suffering from infectious TB.
• Individuals with HIV or with immune system disorders.
• The most recent immigrants from the regions with high TB incidence
Helps locate lung abnormalities and lesions caused by active TB.
Here, a sputum sample can detect the presence of actual TB bacteria under a microscope, which confirms active TB disease.
A quick method of identifying TB-causing bacteria in the lab by amplifying their DNA.
People with HIV have a very high chance of getting active TB. AIDS can tear down the immune system. WHO says HIV testing is mandatory with any diagnosis of TB. If the patient has both HIV and TB, doctors should decide the treatment plan accordingly, as both diseases and medications may interact with each other.
If the tests show active TB, the standard treatment protocol is a 6-month course of multiple antibiotics to stop the growth and kill TB bacteria. Premature treatment discontinuation can give rise to drug resistance and TB recurrence.
Ranging from screening tests to identification of infection or active disease, accurate testing is the key to early diagnosis and treatment of TB. The choice of diagnostic test(s) depends on several factors and in many cases, a combination of tests may be used to establish a diagnosis of TB.
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Source: cdc.gov, tbcindia.gov.in, lung.org
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Published on April 26, 2024