Tuberculosis testing is a laboratory examination that allows detection of infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, determination of the form of the disease, and assessment of the body’s immune response.
When is tuberculosis testing required?
In cases of prolonged cough, fever, night sweats, weight loss, and weakness. After contact with individuals with tuberculosis or for preventive screening. When pulmonary, lymph node, bone, or genitourinary tuberculosis is suspected. For monitoring treatment effectiveness and detection of latent forms of infection.
Types of tuberculosis tests
- Mantoux test – a skin test to detect an immune response to tuberculin.
- Diaskintest – a modern tuberculosis test with high specificity.
- Blood tests (IGRA tests, T-SPOT, QuantiFERON test) – assessment of immune response to mycobacteria.
- Sputum microscopy (bacterioscopy) – examination of sputum for acid-fast bacilli.
- Sputum culture or bronchoalveolar lavage culture – detection of active tuberculosis.
- PCR analysis – detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis DNA in blood, urine, or sputum.
- Immunological tests (T-SPOT, QuantiFERON test) – diagnosis of latent tuberculosis.
How is the examination performed?
The procedure depends on the type of test. Skin tests (Mantoux test, Diaskintest) are performed intradermally with evaluation of the reaction after 72 hours. Blood tests are collected from a vein, and sputum is collected in the morning on an empty stomach. Culture and PCR diagnostics require collection of biological material followed by laboratory processing.
Main advantages of modern tuberculosis tests in Belarus
High accuracy in detecting active and latent forms of the disease. The possibility of diagnosis without radiological examination (based on blood or sputum tests). Painless procedures, absence of side effects, and rapid results.
Belarusian medical centers are equipped with modern laboratories that ensure accurate diagnosis of tuberculosis using advanced methods. Experienced specialists perform examinations with high precision and rapid turnaround of results.
