TBC Lowenstein (M. Tuberculosis) Sputum

The TBC Lowenstein (M. tuberculosis) sputum analysis is essential for diagnosing tuberculosis. If you suspect tuberculosis or wish to undergo this test, contact us to schedule an appointment at IntroLab in Belgrade and start treatment promptly.

Why is the TBC Lowenstein (M. tuberculosis) – sputum analysis performed?

Tuberculosis is a serious bacterial infection that can affect the lungs and other parts of the body. Timely diagnosis is crucial to begin effective treatment. The TBC Lowenstein (M. tuberculosis) sputum analysis allows for the detection of the bacteria and helps doctors determine the best therapeutic approach.

When is the analysis performed?

This test is recommended when there is suspicion of tuberculosis or when a patient has been exposed to someone with active tuberculosis. It can also be used as part of routine screenings for certain groups of people at higher risk of developing the disease.

What is tuberculosis?

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It is primarily known as a lung disease but can affect any organ or part of the body, including:

• bones
• lymph nodes
• brain
• kidneys
• spine

How is tuberculosis transmitted?

Tuberculosis is most commonly transmitted through the air when a person with active pulmonary tuberculosis coughs, sneezes, or talks. People in close contact with someone who has TB are at the highest risk of infection.

There is a distinction between latent and active tuberculosis. People with latent TB have the bacteria in their body but are asymptomatic and not contagious. However, there is a possibility that the bacteria can become active in the future, causing symptoms of the disease. On the other hand, people with the active form of the disease have symptoms and can transmit it to others.

What are the symptoms of tuberculosis?

The main symptoms of active pulmonary tuberculosis include:

• a persistent cough lasting three weeks or longer
• chest pain
• weight loss
• fatigue
• night sweats
• fever
• loss of appetite
• coughing up blood

How is it treated?

The treatment for active tuberculosis involves a combination of several antibiotics taken over several months. It is crucial to follow medical advice and take all prescribed medications to prevent drug resistance and ensure complete recovery. In some parts of the world, the BCG vaccine is used as a preventive measure against TB, especially in regions where the disease is prevalent.

Specifics and subtypes of the TBC Lowenstein (M. tuberculosis) – sputum test

In addition to the analysis of M. tuberculosis in sputum, IntroLab also performs M. tuberculosis analysis in urine. For detecting M. tuberculosis in sputum, we use culture on Lowenstein medium, while different diagnostic methods, including molecular techniques, can be applied for urine analysis. These analyses enable precise identification and diagnosis of tuberculosis, tailored to the needs of each patient.