The Sputum AFB smear looks at tB bacteria seen under the microscope. It is done for: tB diagnosis and treatment monitoring.
General health information, not a diagnosis. In an emergency, call 102. Always consult a qualified health professional.
The Sputum AFB smear looks at tB bacteria seen under the microscope. It is done for: tB diagnosis and treatment monitoring. Why it is done: TB diagnosis and treatment monitoring. generated by SI from cited sources · general information, not a diagnosis · consult a health professional
Sources: SI health summary (own words); MedlinePlus Lab Tests and CDC as references
TB diagnosis and treatment monitoring.
Two samples, one early morning. Laboratory-specific; see the reference range on your report. High or positive may mean: TB bacteria seen. Low or negative may mean: Not seen; does not rule out TB. General information, not a diagnosis. Results must be interpreted by a qualified health worker.
TB bacteria seen under the microscope.
Sputum
TB bacteria seen.
Not seen; does not rule out TB.
Reference ranges vary by lab, age and sex — always use the range printed on your own report.
Consult a doctor to interpret results — a single test does not make a diagnosis.
Uses your location once to list the nearest facilities. Nothing is stored.
What does the Sputum AFB smear measure?
TB bacteria seen under the microscope.
Why is the Sputum AFB smear done?
TB diagnosis and treatment monitoring.
Do I need to fast for the Sputum AFB smear?
Two samples, one early morning.
What does a high or positive Sputum AFB smear mean?
TB bacteria seen.
What does a low or negative Sputum AFB smear mean?
Not seen; does not rule out TB.
What is the normal range for the Sputum AFB smear?
Laboratory-specific; see the reference range on your report.
Why is Sputum AFB smear done?
TB diagnosis and treatment monitoring.
Do I need to prepare or fast for Sputum AFB smear?
Two samples, one early morning. Laboratory-specific; see the reference range on your report. High or positive may mean: TB bacteria seen. Low or negative may mean: Not seen; does not rule out TB. General information, not a diagnosis. Results must be interpreted by a qualified health worker.
SI text CC BY 4.0; decoder reference data (cited per range); LOINC codes free with attribution (notice included).
Sources: SI health summary (own words); MedlinePlus Lab Tests and CDC as references