Sputum acid-fast bacilli (AFB) test results typically take about 24 to 48 hours for preliminary results, but definitive results may take longer, often up to several weeks. This delay is due to the need for culturing the bacteria, which can take time to grow, particularly for Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Rapid molecular tests may provide quicker results in some cases.
It is actually a sputum AFB test (acid-fast bacilli).
The "sperlium" for the AFB (Acid-Fast Bacilli) test refers to the specimen or sample used for testing, which is typically a sputum sample from a patient suspected of having tuberculosis or other mycobacterial infections. This sample is stained and examined under a microscope to identify the presence of acid-fast bacilli. Proper collection and handling of the sputum specimen are crucial for accurate test results.
Acid-fast sputum refers to a sample of sputum that is stained using a special acid-fast stain to detect acid-fast bacteria, such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This staining technique helps in diagnosing diseases like tuberculosis by identifying the presence of these specific bacteria in the sputum sample.
Acid fast bacilli test. Most frequently referenced in testing for tuberculosis.
Tuberculosis is characterized by acid-fast bacilli infection of the lungs. The bacilli are resistant to decolorization by acid-alcohol during staining, hence the term "acid-fast." Symtoms of TB include coughing, chest pain, weight loss, and fatigue.
Some examples of acid-fast bacilli include Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Mycobacterium leprae, and Nocardia species.
Mycobacterial, tuberculosis
Because special staining techniques involving acids are required to view these bacteria under the microscope, they are referred to as acid-fast bacilli (AFB).
A Gram stain is commonly used to observe bacteria in a sputum sample. This staining procedure helps visualize the bacterial cell wall structure and arrangement, aiding in the identification of different bacterial species.
Acid-fast bacilli are a group of bacteria that resist decolorization by acids during laboratory staining procedures. These bacilli include species such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which causes tuberculosis. Acid-fast staining helps in their identification due to their unique cell wall composition.
"No acid fast bacilli seen" means that no bacteria with a cell wall that is resistant to acid staining, such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis, were observed in the specimen tested. This result is important in ruling out certain bacterial infections, particularly tuberculosis.
Acid fast bacilli test. Most frequently referenced in testing for tuberculosis.