Tuberculosis Test in Casablanca
QuantiFERON, TB-PCR & AFB Smear Testing
Tuberculosis Testing at TEKlaB Laboratory
Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs. Morocco is endemic for TB with significant case numbers. Early detection through proper testing is essential for treatment and preventing transmission.
Types of TB Tests
QuantiFERON-TB Gold
Blood test for latent TB. Replaces tuberculin skin test. More accurate, no return visit needed.
TB-PCR (GeneXpert)
Molecular test detecting TB DNA. Results in hours. Also detects rifampicin resistance.
AFB Smear
Microscopic examination of sputum. Fast and inexpensive. Detects acid-fast bacilli.
TB Culture
Gold standard test. Takes 2-6 weeks. Detects TB and drug resistance patterns.
Who Should Get Tested for Tuberculosis?
- Persistent cough - Cough lasting more than 3 weeks
- TB symptoms - Night sweats, fever, weight loss, coughing blood
- Close TB contact - Household member or colleague with active TB
- HIV positive - TB is leading cause of death in HIV patients
- Healthcare workers - Occupational screening requirement
- Immunocompromised - Diabetes, kidney disease, cancer treatment
- Pre-immigration screening - Required for many countries
- Before starting biologics - TNF-alpha inhibitors (Humira, Remicade)
TB in Morocco
Morocco reports approximately 27,000 TB cases annually (75 cases per 100,000 population). TB is endemic, especially in crowded urban areas. Free TB treatment is available through the Ministry of Health's National TB Control Program.
Understanding Your Results
| Test | Positive Result | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| QuantiFERON | Positive | TB infection (latent or active) - needs chest X-ray |
| TB-PCR | Detected | Active TB infection - start treatment immediately |
| AFB Smear | Positive | TB bacteria present - highly infectious |
| TB Culture | Growth | TB confirmed, drug sensitivity testing performed |
Latent vs Active TB
- Latent TB: Infected but not sick, cannot spread TB, needs preventive treatment
- Active TB: Sick with symptoms, contagious, needs full TB treatment (6-9 months)
- 10% of latent TB infections progress to active disease
Sample Collection
- QuantiFERON: Simple blood draw, no fasting required
- Sputum for AFB/PCR/Culture: Early morning sample preferred, collected in sterile container
- 3 sputum samples: Usually collected on consecutive days
- Proper sample collection critical for accurate results
TB Warning Signs
- Cough lasting 3+ weeks
- Coughing blood or mucus
- Night sweats
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fever and fatigue
- Chest pain when breathing
Hours
- Mon-Fri07:30-19:00
- Saturday08:30-17:00
- Sunday09:00-14:00
Related Tests
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TB is curable with proper treatment. Early detection prevents spread.
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