Acid-fast bacilli (AFB) smear

An Acid-Fast Bacilli (AFB) smear is a laboratory test used to detect certain bacteria, like Mycobacterium tuberculosis, responsible for tuberculosis. A small sample, such as sputum or tissue fluid, is stained with special dyes and examined under a microscope. If the bacteria are present, they retain the dye after a special washing process, appearing as bright, distinct rods. This test helps in diagnosing tuberculosis quickly and is often used alongside other tests to confirm infection. It’s a valuable tool for early detection, guiding treatment decisions and controlling the spread of the disease.