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Tuberculosis DNA PCR - Qualitative, Blood

Also referred as

Mycobacterium Tuberculosis DNA PCR - Qual. Blood

For men & women

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144 hours

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The Tuberculosis DNA PCR - Qualitative, Blood test is used to detect the presence of genetic material of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) or Non-tuberculous Mycobacteria (NTM/ MOTT) in the blood. This test aids in the early diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis (TB), a highly infectious disease.

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Blood

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Understanding Tuberculosis DNA PCR - Qualitative, Blood

Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affecting the lungs but can also impact other organs. Due to its airborne transmission, early detection is crucial to prevent its spread and potential complications.

Your doctor may recommend the Tuberculosis DNA PCR - Qualitative, Blood test if you exhibit symptoms such as persistent cough, blood in sputum, fever, unexplained weight loss, chest pain, chills, night sweats , or fatigue. Individuals with recent exposure to TB , travelers to affected regions, those with weak immune systems, healthcare workers and participants in TB screening programmes can benefit from the Tuberculosis DNA PCR - Qualitative, Blood test. Additionally, this test helps evaluate treatment efficacy and assess drug resistance.

The Tuberculosis DNA PCR - Qualitative, Blood test utilizes the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique to amplify and detect specific DNA sequences of M. tuberculosis or Non-tuberculous Mycobacteria (NTM/ MOTT) in your blood sample. This qualitative test provides a highly sensitive and specific identification of TB infection, even in cases with low bacterial loads.

No special preparation is required before undertaking the Tuberculosis DNA PCR - Qualitative, Blood test. However, it is suggested to inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are currently taking, as few of them may potentially influence the test results.

Test results for the Tuberculosis DNA PCR - Qualitative, Blood test are interpreted as either positive or negative. The interpretation of these results may vary slightly between laboratories due to differences in methodology and laboratory guidelines. It is important to discuss your test results with your doctor, who will consider other factors such as your medical history, symptoms, underlying medical conditions, and additional test results to establish a diagnosis of TB disease accurately.

Please note: This is an outsourced test. The sample for this test is collected by TATA 1MG and processed at a NABL accredited partnered lab.

What does Tuberculosis DNA PCR - Qualitative, Blood measure?

The Tuberculosis DNA PCR - Qualitative, Blood test measures the presence of genetic material (DNA) from Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacterium that causes tuberculosis (TB). This test detects specific DNA sequences of the TB bacteria in the blood sample. By identifying the genetic material of M. tuberculosis , the test can determine whether an individual has been infected with TB.

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FAQs related to Tuberculosis DNA PCR - Qualitative, Blood

Why is the Tuberculosis DNA PCR - Qualitative, Blood test important?

The Tuberculosis DNA PCR - Qualitative, Blood test is important as it helps in the early diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis (TB) , a highly contagious disease.

When should I get the Tuberculosis DNA PCR - Qualitative, Blood test done?

You may get this test done if you have symptoms suggestive of TB, such as a persistent cough, weight loss, night sweats, fever etc. Also, if you have risk factors for TB such as a weak immune system as seen in HIV/AIDS, recent travel to an area where TB is prevalent etc.

Is there any risk associated with the Tuberculosis DNA PCR - Qualitative, Blood test?

There is usually no risk associated with the Tuberculosis DNA PCR - Qualitative, Blood test. However, some individuals may feel a slight sting when a needle is pricked to collect a blood sample and may also experience some bleeding that is normal and usually not bothersome. Rarely, some individuals may also experience slight swelling or bruising at the site of the needle prick.

Is the Tuberculosis DNA PCR - Qualitative, Blood test suitable for pregnant women?

Yes, the Tuberculosis DNA PCR - Qualitative, Blood test is safe and can be performed on pregnant women if TB is suspected.

What happens if TB is not treated timely?

TB can lead to numerous health complications when not treated timely. These complications may include infection or damage to the joints, bones, spinal cord, brain, or lymph nodes, liver problems, kidney problems, and inflammation of tissues around the heart.

How does tuberculosis spread?

Tuberculosis can spread when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks, releasing TB bacteria into the air. Uninfected people nearby can inhale these bacteria and become infected. Close and prolonged contact with someone who has active TB disease increases the risk of transmission.

Can tuberculosis be cured?

Yes, TB can be cured with appropriate treatment , typically involving a combination of antibiotics taken over several months. Early diagnosis and adherence to the prescribed treatment regimen are key to successfully curing TB.

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MD Microbiology, MBBS

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Last Updated

5th Jan 2026