Sputum / AFB Test – Acid Fast Bacilli

The Acid Fast Bacilli (AFB) Test is used to identify mycobacteria, the group of bacteria responsible for tuberculosis and leprosy. The test uses special staining methods that allow the bacteria to retain dye even after acid washing—hence the term “acid-fast.”

AFB cultures allow:

• Detection and growth of TB bacteria

• Identification of the specific TB strain

• Antibiotic susceptibility testing

• Monitoring effectiveness of treatment

• Determination of infectious status

AFB testing helps determine whether:

• TB is confined to the lungs (pulmonary TB)

• Or has spread to organs outside the lungs (extrapulmonary TB)

It also plays a vital role in deciding:

• When a patient is no longer contagious

• Whether the TB treatment is successful or needs modification

The Sputum / AFB Test involves microscopic examination of sputum or other body fluid samples to detect acid-fast bacteria that are characteristic of tuberculosis and related infections.