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Cultured AFB Antitubercular DST Ethionamide Test

DNA Labs India | ISO 9001:2015 Certified

Cultured AFB Antitubercular DST Ethionamide Test

Short Name: AFB DST Ethionamide Test

Also known as: Ethionamide Susceptibility Test, AFB DST Ethionamide, TB Drug Susceptibility Test Ethionamide

Cultured AFB Antitubercular DST Ethionamide Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹4,000. Uses Automated Fluorescent on Pure growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex on appropriate media samples. Results in Results are available within 21 days of sample receipt.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

Culture and Sensitivity Test🏠 Home Collection

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Overview

To diagnose tuberculosis and evaluate the susceptibility of Mycobacterium tuberculosis to ethionamide, guiding targeted antibiotic therapy for drug-resistant TB.

Test Code
434
Price
₹4,000
Sample Type
Pure growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex on appropriate media
Result Time
Results are available within 21 days of sample receipt.
Fasting Required
No
Method
Automated Fluorescent
Step 1

Sample Collection

No special preparation is required. Ensure the sample is collected under sterile conditions and transported promptly to the laboratory.

Method: Laboratory culture or direct specimen submission

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

For specimen submission, collect sputum or other relevant samples as directed by the healthcare provider. If using laboratory culture, the pure growth will be processed from already submitted specimens.

Step 3

Report Delivery

Store the sample as recommended: at room temperature for up to 48 hours or refrigerated for up to 4 weeks. Avoid freezing.

Timeline: Results are available within 21 days of sample receipt.

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:No fasting or special preparation is required. Ensure the doctor has ordered the test based on clinical indications.
2
During the Test:The test involves laboratory culture of the sample and automated fluorescent methods to assess susceptibility. No patient involvement during the testing process.
3
After the Test:After sample submission, await results which are typically delivered in 21 days. Follow up with your doctor to discuss findings.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

To diagnose tuberculosis and evaluate the susceptibility of Mycobacterium tuberculosis to ethionamide, guiding targeted antibiotic therapy for drug-resistant TB.

How to Prepare

  • Submit pure growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex on appropriate media in a sterile screw capped container.
  • Place the container in a sealed plastic bag for safe transport.
  • Ship refrigerated unless processed from specimens already submitted to the laboratory.
  • Follow all standard biosafety protocols for handling TB specimens.

Doctor's Notes

Reviewed by — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670

"This test is essential for identifying ethionamide resistance in tuberculosis, guiding personalized treatment to improve outcomes and prevent drug resistance."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypePure growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex on appropriate media
ContainerSterile screw capped container in a sealed plastic bag
Collection MethodLaboratory culture or direct specimen submission

Sample Stability

Room Temperature48 hours
Refrigerator4 weeks
FrozenNot applicable
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Contaminated or improperly labeled samples
  • Samples not stored or transported according to instructions
  • Insufficient sample volume or inadequate bacterial growth
  • Specimens received without proper documentation

Understanding Your Results

Results indicate whether the Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolate is susceptible or resistant to ethionamide. Susceptibility suggests the drug may be effective in treatment, while resistance indicates the bacteria are not inhibited by ethionamide, requiring alternative therapies.
📊

Susceptible

Ethionamide can be considered as part of the treatment regimen for tuberculosis.

📊

Resistant

Ethionamide is unlikely to be effective; consult a healthcare provider for alternative drug options.

📊

Inconclusive

Test may need repetition due to technical issues or sample quality; consult with the laboratory.

⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

Consult a doctor if you experience symptoms of tuberculosis such as persistent cough, chest pain, or weight loss, or if your test results indicate resistance to ethionamide for personalized treatment planning.

Limitations

  • Test requires bacterial culture, which can take several weeks
  • Limited to detecting susceptibility only to ethionamide, not other drugs
  • May not detect all resistant strains due to phenotypic variability
  • Results depend on the quality of the submitted sample

Risks & Considerations

  • No direct physical risks from the test itself
  • Potential delay in treatment if results are delayed
  • Risk of misinterpretation if not reviewed by a specialist

Interfering Factors

  • Contamination of the sample during collection or transport
  • Improper storage conditions affecting bacterial viability
  • Use of antibiotics prior to sample collection may inhibit growth
  • Technical errors in culture or susceptibility testing procedures

Compare With Similar Tests

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ComparisonCultured AFB Antitubercular DST Ethionamide Test

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Cultured AFB Antitubercular DST Ethionamide Test?
It is a laboratory test that cultures Mycobacterium tuberculosis to determine its susceptibility to the antibiotic ethionamide, used in treating drug-resistant tuberculosis.
Why is this test performed?
This test is performed to guide treatment decisions for tuberculosis, especially in cases of drug-resistant TB, ensuring the use of effective antibiotics like ethionamide.
How is the sample collected for this test?
The sample requires a pure growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which can be submitted from laboratory cultures or directly from patient specimens such as sputum, in a sterile container.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result indicates that the TB bacteria are resistant to ethionamide, meaning the drug may not be effective, and alternative treatments should be considered.
What is the cost of the test?
The cost of the Cultured AFB Antitubercular DST Ethionamide Test at DNA Labs India is INR 4000, with free home sample collection available.
How long does it take to get the results?
Results are typically available within 21 days from the date of sample receipt at the laboratory.
Is home collection available for this test?
Yes, DNA Labs India offers free home sample collection for this test across many cities in India, making it convenient for patients.
Are there any special preparations required?
No special preparation such as fasting is required. However, ensure the sample is collected and transported as per laboratory guidelines.
What is the difference between this test and a sputum test?
A sputum test detects the presence of TB bacteria, while this test specifically determines susceptibility to ethionamide after culture, aiding in targeted therapy.
Can this test detect all types of TB?
This test focuses on Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex and susceptibility to ethionamide; it does not detect other TB species or comprehensive drug resistance without additional tests.
Is the test covered by insurance?
Coverage depends on your insurance policy. It is advisable to check with your provider or DNA Labs India for specific details.
What should I do if my test shows resistance?
If the test shows resistance to ethionamide, consult your doctor or an infectious disease specialist to adjust your TB treatment plan with alternative medications.
Worried about the process? Our certified phlebotomists collect thousands of samples every month across India. The process takes under 5 minutes and is virtually painless. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp — we're here 7 days a week.

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Your medical data is protected under Indian law.

Stored in India: All patient records are stored on servers located in India. No data is transferred outside the country.

DPDP Act Compliant: Under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023, you can request deletion of your records at any time by contacting support.

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