What do the results mean?
If your results on an AFB smear or culture were negative, you probably don't have active TB. But it could also mean there weren't enough bacteria in the sample for your health care provider to make a diagnosis.
If your AFB smear was positive, it means you probably have TB or other infection, but an AFB culture is needed confirm the diagnosis. Culture results can take several weeks, so your provider may decide to treat your infection in the meantime.
If your AFB culture was positive, it means you have active TB or another type of AFB infection. The culture can identify which type of infection you have. Once you have been diagnosed, your provider may order a "susceptibility test" on your sample. A susceptibility test is used to help determine which antibiotic will provide the most effective treatment.
If you have questions about your results, talk to your health care provider.Learn more about laboratory tests, reference ranges, and understanding results.
