Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria responsible for tuberculosis (TB), has a knack for developing resistance to the drugs commonly used to treat the disease. This poses a major challenge in combating TB, making it crucial to determine the drug susceptibility of the bacteria, to help guide appropriate treatment. The AFB/TB - Drug Sensitivity - 13 Drug Flexi Panel, as the name suggests, is a comprehensive diagnostic test that measures the susceptibility of the bacteria to 13 different anti-TB drugs.
The panel includes first-line drugs like Isoniazid, Rifampicin, Ethambutol, and Streptomycin, as well as a number of second-line drugs. First-line drugs are usually the initial treatment choice, but when resistance to these drugs develops, second-line drugs may be used. Understanding the drug resistance pattern aids in optimizing the treatment plan, thereby reducing the spread of drug-resistant TB and improving patient outcomes.
Profile Name AFB/TB - Drug Sensitivity - 13 Drug Flexi Panel
Sample Type Sputum
Preparations Required No special preparation is required for this test.
Report Time 4 Weeks
Why is the AFB/TB - Drug Sensitivity - 13 Drug Flexi Panel important?
This test is important as it helps in detecting drug-resistant TB. The results guide doctors in choosing the most effective treatment plan for the patient, which is crucial for preventing further spread of the disease and enhancing patient recovery.
Do I need to fast before this test?
No, fasting is not required for this test.
Home Sample Collection Process
1
Book your convenient slot
2
Sample Collection by Phlebotomist
3
Reporting of the sample at lab
4
Download Reports
Note: Home Sample Collection is only for Pathology lab tests.
Frequently Asked Questions
No specific preparation is needed for this test.
This test is usually recommended if you are diagnosed with TB, especially if you are not responding to standard treatment, as it could suggest drug resistance.
The test provides information on the susceptibility of the TB bacteria to 13 different anti-TB drugs, indicating whether the bacteria are resistant or sensitive to these drugs.
The frequency of this test depends on your TB status and the progression of your treatment. Your doctor will guide you based on your condition.
In a normal result, the TB bacteria should be sensitive to all tested drugs. However, this may vary in the presence of drug-resistant TB.
No special precautions are required before taking this test. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions.
Yes, previous TB treatment, improper drug usage, and inadequate treatment can influence the results of this test.
If your test results are abnormal, you should consult your doctor, who will most likely refer you to a pulmonologist for further management.
The test requires a sputum sample, which is the mucus that comes up from the lungs. You’ll be asked to cough deeply to produce the sample.
No, the test is usually performed on a sputum sample. In some cases, it may be performed on other types of samples like tissue or fluid from the suspected site of infection.
The test itself isn't painful. However, producing a sputum sample may cause some temporary discomfort.
Yes, drug-resistant TB can be treated and cured, but it requires longer and more complex treatment with specialized medications.
If left untreated, drug-resistant TB can be fatal. It can also spread to others, contributing to the public health burden of drug-resistant TB.
Getting the AFB/TB - Drug Sensitivity - 13 Drug Flexi Panel test done is a crucial part of the battle against TB, especially in light of increasing drug resistance. It enables the selection of the most effective drugs for treatment, significantly enhancing the likelihood of patient recovery and limiting the spread of drug-resistant strains. Always consult with your doctor if you have any concerns or questions regarding this test. Remember, early detection and appropriate treatment are key in managing TB effectively.
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