AFB Rapid Culture Test by Bactec MGIT, Sputum

• To diagnose infections caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB Complex) or Non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM or MOTT).
• To distinguish tuberculosis (TB) infections from other non-tuberculous bacterial infections.
• To aid in the timely initiation of appropriate treatment for TB or NTM infections.
• To reduce the risk of disease transmission by identifying and treating TB infections promptly.
• To improve patient outcomes by facilitating accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
• To monitor treatment efficacy and detect drug-resistant strains of mycobacteria.
• To guide infection control measures in healthcare settings.
• To confirm suspected TB cases and facilitate contact tracing efforts.
• To ensure accurate epidemiological surveillance of TB and NTM infections.

The AFB (acid-fast bacilli) Rapid Culture Test by MGIT (Mycobacteria Growth Indicator Tube) for sputum detects the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB Complex) or Non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM or MOTT) in the sputum sample.

During MGIT test patient will be advised to rinse the mouth with clean water and then expectorate sputum with a deep cough. Aim is to get secretions from the lower respiratory tract which are not contaminated with sputum. Sputum sample will be collected in a screw capped container.

• M.tb detected - This means M.tb was cultured from samplthe e. This growth can be used for susceptibility testing of various antibiotics as per advice by the treating physician
• M.tb not detected - This means M.tb could not be grown from the sample and the patient is unlikely to suffer from tuberculosis. The sensitivity of this test is not 100% and hence your doctor may add on other tests for detection e.g., PCR

There are no specific preparations required for the test. However, it is recommended that you consult with your healthcare provider before taking the test, as they may have specific instructions or recommendations based on your individual medical history and current health status.

There are three types and they are Active, Latent, and Miliary. The bacteria rapidly multiply and invade various organs in active TB. The bacteria are inactive and do not cause any symptoms in latent TB. Miliary is a rare type where the bacteria enter the patient's bloodstream.

Yes, it does not cause any symptoms but treatment should be taken to avoid the risk of latent TB progressing into active TB. Generally, a short course of treatment lasting for 3-4 months is recommended.

TB is curable if the patient takes the antibiotics prescribed by the doctor regularly for the recommended period. If left untreated, it can be deadly.

• TB Culture and Sensitivity
• AFB Smear and Culture
• Mycobacteria Smear and Culture

The AFB Rapid Culture Test, also known as the MGIT test, is a diagnostic tool used to identify the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and other mycobacteria in a patient's sample, such as sputum, urine, or other bodily fluids.

Yes, home sample collection is available for the MGIT test through various diagnostic centres like Metropolis Healthcare. This service offers convenience and comfort for patients who require the sputum MGIT test.

The MGIT test is used to diagnose tuberculosis (TB) and other mycobacterial infections by detecting the presence of acid-fast bacilli in a patient's sample, helping healthcare providers initiate appropriate treatment and prevent the spread of the disease.

The normal range for an MGIT test is the absence of mycobacteria in the sample. If no bacteria are found, the MGIT test is considered negative, indicating the absence of TB or other mycobacterial infections.

Individuals with symptoms of TB, such as persistent cough, fever, weight loss, and night sweats, or those at higher risk of developing TB, including people with weakened immune systems due to HIV infection or certain medical conditions, are eligible for the MGIT test.

The benefits of an MGIT test include accurate diagnosis of TB and other mycobacterial infections, which is crucial for initiating appropriate treatment, preventing the spread of the disease, and improving patient outcomes.

The frequency of an MGIT test depends on clinical necessity and typically recommended when symptoms of TB are present or if there is a high risk of exposure to the disease, as determined by your healthcare provider.

There is no specific time recommended for the MGIT test.

No, fasting is not required for the MGIT test.

There are no specific precautions other than following the healthcare provider's instructions for sample collection.

The MGIT test includes detecting the presence and type of mycobacteria in the sample, which can confirm the diagnosis of TB or other AFB infections, helping healthcare providers determine the appropriate course of treatment.

The MGIT test involves collecting a sputum sample through deep coughing, which may be assisted by a sterile saline mist if necessary. In some cases, a bronchoscopy may be performed to collect the sample.

The MGIT test should be done when symptoms of TB, such as persistent cough, fever, weight loss, and night sweats, are present or if there is a high risk of exposure to TB.

The MGIT test becomes positive when mycobacteria are detected in the sample.

Sample collection for the MGIT test typically takes a few minutes, although it may take longer if additional procedures like bronchoscopy are required.

Smear results from MGIT test are usually available; however, culture test results may take up to 6 weeks due to the growth rate of mycobacteria in MGIT culture test, which can affect turnaround time.