Cultured AFB Antitubercular DST Rapid 16 Drugs Panel Test
Short Name: AFB DST Rapid Panel
Also known as: AFB DST Rapid 16 Drugs Panel, TB Drug Sensitivity Test, Mycobacterium tuberculosis DST
Cultured AFB Antitubercular DST Rapid 16 Drugs Panel Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹25,000. Uses Automated Fluorescent on Pure growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex on appropriate media samples. Results in Reports are typically available within 21 days from sample receipt.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal
Consultant Microbiologist · Reg: 27670
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The purpose of the Cultured AFB DST Rapid 16 Drugs Panel Test is to determine the susceptibility of Mycobacterium tuberculosis to 16 antitubercular drugs. This helps in identifying drug-resistant TB strains, allowing healthcare providers to select the most effective antibiotics for treatment, reducing the risk of treatment failure and disease spread.
- Test Code
- 447
- ICD Code
- A15-A19
- Price
- ₹25,000
- Sample Type
- Pure growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex on appropriate media
- Result Time
- Reports are typically available within 21 days from sample receipt.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Automated Fluorescent
Sample Collection
Ensure the sample is a pure growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex on appropriate media. No special preparation required from the patient for sample submission.
Method: Submit cultured sample from lab or prior AFB culture
Laboratory Analysis
Submit the cultured sample in a sterile screw-capped container inside a sealed plastic bag. Use aseptic techniques to prevent contamination.
Report Delivery
Store the sample at room temperature for up to 48 hours or refrigerate for up to 4 weeks. Avoid freezing as specified.
Timeline: Reports are typically available within 21 days from sample receipt.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of the Cultured AFB DST Rapid 16 Drugs Panel Test is to determine the susceptibility of Mycobacterium tuberculosis to 16 antitubercular drugs. This helps in identifying drug-resistant TB strains, allowing healthcare providers to select the most effective antibiotics for treatment, reducing the risk of treatment failure and disease spread.
How to Prepare
- Obtain a pure culture of Mycobacterium tuberculosis from sputum or other specimens
- Transfer the culture to a sterile, screw-capped container
- Seal the container in a plastic bag to prevent leakage
- Label the sample with patient details and test information
- Ship refrigerated if not processed immediately
- For online bookings, free home collection is available where staff will collect the sample
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"This test is essential for identifying drug-resistant tuberculosis strains, enabling targeted antibiotic therapy and preventing further spread. Early and accurate diagnosis improves treatment outcomes and public health efforts."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Contaminated or mixed culture samples
- Improperly labeled or leaked containers
- Samples not stored at recommended temperatures
- Inadequate growth for testing
Understanding Your Results
Sensitive
The bacteria are susceptible to the drug; it may be effective for treatment.
Resistant
The bacteria are not susceptible to the drug; alternative antibiotics should be considered.
Intermediate
Partial susceptibility; clinical judgment required, often with higher doses or combinations.
Consult a doctor immediately if the test shows resistance to multiple drugs, if symptoms persist or worsen during treatment, or if there are signs of treatment failure. Early consultation helps in adjusting therapy and preventing complications.
Limitations
- ⚠Requires initial culture of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which is time-consuming
- ⚠Test turnaround time is 21 days, which may delay treatment initiation
- ⚠Not suitable for direct testing from clinical samples without culture
- ⚠Results are dependent on laboratory expertise and equipment accuracy
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minimal risks associated with sample collection, such as discomfort during sputum induction if applicable
- ●No direct risks from the test itself as it is performed on cultured samples
Interfering Factors
- ●Sample contamination during collection or transport
- ●Prior use of antibiotics affecting bacterial growth
- ●Inadequate sample volume or quality
- ●Delayed processing of the cultured sample
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Cultured AFB Antitubercular DST Rapid 16 Drugs Panel Test | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Cultured AFB Antitubercular DST Rapid 16 Drugs Panel Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
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✓ Stored in India: All patient records are stored on servers located in India. No data is transferred outside the country.
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