About This Test
The AFB smear test using Ziehl–Neelsen (ZN) staining is a microscopic test used to detect Acid-Fast Bacilli, primarily Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria that causes Tuberculosis (TB). This test can be done in most of the specimens like Urine (morning first urine) / Pus / CSF / Pleural fluid / Peritoneal fluid / Pericardial fluid / Synovial fluid / BAL fluid / Gastric aspirate /Eye fluid / FNAC. The AFB test helps in rapid diagnosis of pulmonary TB, indicates infectiousness, monitors treatment in follow up, helps in screening high-risk groups.
Test Parameters (1)
- ACID FAST BACILLI (AFB SMEAR)
Home Collection
✓ Available
Reports Available In
1 Day
Preparation / Prerequisite
Submit first morning whole urine sample.
Submit 1-2 mL of miscellaneous specimens - Pus / CSF / Pleural fluid / Peritoneal fluid / Pericardial fluid / Synovial fluid / BAL fluid / Gastric aspirate /Eye fluid / FNAC aspirate in a sterile tube OR 1-2 mL Bone marrow aspirate in 1 Green Top (Sodium Heparin) tube OR Smears on Air dried / Fixed Slides. transport refrigerated. DO NOT FREEZE.
Frequently Asked Questions
Microbiology tests detect disease-causing microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites in samples like blood, urine, sputum, stool, pus, or body fluids.
Submit first morning whole urine sample. Rest specimen, no preparation.
Mon-Sat, sample before 4pm, reports same day and Sunday reports next day.
The AFB test is crucial for the early detection, diagnosis, and control of Tuberculosis (TB) and other mycobacterial infections.
TAT Policy
The Turnaround Time (TAT) depends on the following factors:
- Registration date and time
- Type of scan or test
- Scan time or sample collection time
In uncommon circumstances, TAT may be delayed due to test complexity or reasons beyond our control. You will be informed of the estimated TAT at the time of registration.
