🔬 What is the Test?
The AFB Culture using Löwenstein-Jensen (L-J) Medium is a laboratory test used to detect and grow Mycobacterium tuberculosis (TB bacteria) or non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) from clinical samples. L-J medium is a solid egg-based culture medium that supports the slow growth of mycobacteria.
📊 Normal Ranges:
Negative → No mycobacterial growth detected.
Positive → Mycobacterial growth detected (further testing needed for species identification).
(Results may vary depending on laboratory methods.)
🎯 Purpose of the Test:
✅ Identifies tuberculosis (TB) and NTM infections
✅ Helps in early detection and diagnosis
✅ Provides a reliable method for growing mycobacteria
✅ Allows further testing for species identification and drug susceptibility
🩺 When is it Recommended?
🔹 Patients suspected of having tuberculosis or NTM infections
🔹 Individuals with prolonged cough, fever, weight loss, or lung infections
🔹 To confirm TB before initiating treatment
🔹 To monitor treatment response in TB patients
📝 How is the Test Done?
A sputum, blood, CSF, urine, or tissue sample is collected.
The sample is inoculated onto Löwenstein-Jensen solid medium.
Mycobacterial growth is monitored over 4-8 weeks due to the slow replication rate.
If positive, additional tests are required for species identification and drug resistance testing.
⚠️ What Do Abnormal Results Mean?
📉 Negative → No mycobacterial infection detected.
📈 Positive → Mycobacteria detected (further identification and drug sensitivity testing required).
🔍 Infographic Design Idea:
Medical-themed colors (blue, green, and white)
Illustration of an L-J culture tube with bacterial growth
Flowchart showing the culture process
Table summarizing result interpretation