The AFB/TB Susceptibility: 10 Drug Panel test is a comprehensive evaluation to determine the sensitivity or resistance of the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the causative organism of Tuberculosis (TB), to a panel of first and second-line anti-TB drugs. This test is crucial to formulate an effective treatment plan, especially in the cases of drug-resistant TB.
First-line drugs include Isoniazid, Rifampin, Ethambutol, and Pyrazinamide, which are the initial treatment choice for TB. However, in cases of drug-resistant TB, second-line drugs, including Levofloxacin, Moxifloxacin, Kanamycin, Amikacin, Capreomycin, and Ethionamide, are used. The 10 Drug Panel tests the bacterial sample against these drugs to identify the ones effective for treatment.
Note: Home Sample Collection is only for Pathology lab tests.
The test helps in identifying drug-resistant strains of TB and formulating an effective treatment strategy. It is critical in treating Multidrug-Resistant TB (MDR-TB) and Extensively Drug-Resistant TB (XDR-TB).
No, fasting is not required for this test.
The test is done when a patient doesn't respond to first-line TB treatment, or when the patient is suspected to have been infected by drug-resistant TB strain.
This test measures the susceptibility or resistance of Mycobacterium tuberculosis to a panel of 10 first and second-line anti-TB drugs.
The frequency of the test is determined by the doctor, depending on the patient's treatment response and disease progression.
The normal value would be 'sensitive' for all drugs, which indicates the drugs can effectively kill or inhibit the growth of the bacteria.
You should follow the sample collection instructions properly to avoid contamination, leading to inaccurate results.
The method of sample collection and handling, as well as the biological characteristics of the bacteria, can affect the test results.
Modifiable factors include proper sample collection and handling, while non-modifiable factors involve the inherent properties of the TB bacteria.
If the test results indicate resistance to any of the drugs, you should consult a pulmonologist or an infectious disease specialist.
No, there is no specific preparation needed for this test.
The test is highly standardized, but slight differences might occur due to technical differences between labs.
The test itself doesn't pose any risk, but the sample collection may cause slight discomfort.
Yes, you can eat and drink normally before the test.
Yes, drug-resistant TB can be treated, but it requires a more extensive combination of drugs and a longer duration of treatment.
The AFB/TB Susceptibility: 10 Drug Panel test is a vital tool in the fight against TB, especially in the face of growing drug resistance. It ensures that the treatment plan is customized to the patient's specific needs, which optimizes the chances of a successful recovery. This test, along with constant monitoring of the patient's progress, forms a comprehensive strategy to manage and control TB.