🔬 What is the Test?
The AFB (Acid-Fast Bacilli) Culture Without Identification is a laboratory test used to detect the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (TB bacteria) or non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) in clinical samples. This test determines whether mycobacteria are present but does not specify the exact species.
📊 Normal Ranges:
Negative → No mycobacterial growth detected.
Positive → Mycobacterial growth detected (requires additional testing to identify the strain).
(Results may vary based on laboratory methods.)
🎯 Purpose of the Test:
✅ Detects the presence of mycobacteria in patient samples
✅ Helps diagnose tuberculosis (TB) and NTM infections
✅ Aids in early detection for timely treatment
✅ Serves as the first step before species identification and drug susceptibility testing
🩺 When is it Recommended?
🔹 Patients suspected of having TB or NTM infections
🔹 Individuals with prolonged cough, fever, weight loss, or lung infections
🔹 To confirm TB cases before further testing
🔹 To monitor patients undergoing TB treatment
📝 How is the Test Done?
A sputum, blood, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), urine, or tissue sample is collected.
The sample is placed in a special culture medium to allow mycobacterial growth.
Results can take 2-8 weeks due to the slow growth of mycobacteria.
If positive, further testing is required for species identification and drug resistance profiling.
⚠️ What Do Abnormal Results Mean?
📉 Negative → No mycobacterial infection detected.
📈 Positive → Mycobacteria detected (further testing needed to identify species and resistance).
🔍 Infographic Design Idea:
Medical-themed colors (blue, green, and white)
Illustration of mycobacterial growth in a culture medium
Flowchart showing the culture process
Table summarizing result interpretation