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DNA Labs India

Cultured AFB Antitubercular DST Rapid 4 Drugs Panel Test

DNA Labs India | ISO 9001:2015 Certified

Cultured AFB Antitubercular DST Rapid 4 Drugs Panel Test

Short Name: AFB DST Rapid 4 Drugs Panel

Also known as: AFB Culture DST 4 Drugs, Antitubercular Sensitivity Test, TB Drug Resistance Panel

Cultured AFB Antitubercular DST Rapid 4 Drugs Panel Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹6,500. Uses Automated Fluorescent on Pure growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex on appropriate media samples. Results in Report available in 21 days. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

Culture-based Drug Susceptibility Test🏠 Home Collection

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Overview

The purpose of this test is to determine the susceptibility of Mycobacterium tuberculosis to four antitubercular drugs, aiding in the diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis, particularly drug-resistant cases.

Test Code
446
Price
₹6,500
Sample Type
Pure growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex on appropriate media
Result Time
Report available in 21 days
Fasting Required
No
Method
Automated Fluorescent
Step 1

Sample Collection

No special preparation required

Method: Sputum collection or culture submission

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

Provide a sputum sample or submit pure bacterial culture in appropriate media

Step 3

Report Delivery

Store sample refrigerated if not submitted immediately

Timeline: Report available in 21 days

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:No fasting or special preparation needed.
2
During the Test:Sample is collected and sent to the laboratory for culture and testing.
3
After the Test:Results are available after 21 days via online portal, email, or WhatsApp.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

The purpose of this test is to determine the susceptibility of Mycobacterium tuberculosis to four antitubercular drugs, aiding in the diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis, particularly drug-resistant cases.

How to Prepare

  • Collect sputum in a sterile container
  • Ensure sample is labeled correctly
  • Transport refrigerated within 48 hours if not cultured

Doctor's Notes

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

"Early detection of drug resistance through this test is critical for effective tuberculosis management and preventing spread."

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 MethodSputum collection or culture submission

Sample Stability

Room Temperature: 48 hours
Refrigerator: 4 weeks
Frozen: Not applicable
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Insufficient sample volume
  • Improper container or labeling
  • Contaminated or improperly stored sample

Understanding Your Results

Results indicate whether the tuberculosis bacteria are susceptible or resistant to each of the four tested drugs.
Susceptible: The bacteria can be effectively treated with the drug
Resistant: The bacteria are not killed by the drug, requiring alternative treatment
⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

Consult a doctor if symptoms persist, if test results show drug resistance, or for treatment guidance.

Limitations

  • Only effective for cultured bacteria, not direct samples
  • Results may take up to 21 days due to culture time
  • Limited to testing four specific drugs

Risks & Considerations

  • Minimal risk from sputum collection, such as discomfort
  • Rare risk of sample mishandling

Interfering Factors

  • Contamination of the sample
  • Improper culture conditions
  • Prior antibiotic use affecting bacterial growth

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Cultured AFB Antitubercular DST Rapid 4 Drugs Panel Test?
It is a laboratory test that identifies tuberculosis bacteria and checks their resistance to four antitubercular drugs: Rifampicin, Isoniazid, Ethambutol, and Streptomycin.
Why is this test important for tuberculosis diagnosis?
This test helps determine the specific drug resistance profile of TB bacteria, enabling effective treatment and preventing the spread of drug-resistant TB.
What drugs are tested in this panel?
The panel tests for susceptibility to Streptomycin, Isoniazid, Rifampicin, and Ethambutol.
How is the sample collected for this test?
The sample can be collected via sputum or by submitting a pure culture of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex on appropriate media in a sterile container.
What is the cost of the Cultured AFB DST Rapid 4 Drugs Panel Test?
The test costs INR 6500 at DNA Labs India, with free home sample collection available across India.
Is home collection available for this test?
Yes, DNA Labs India offers free home sample collection for this test in numerous cities across India.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 21 days, as the test involves culturing bacteria for susceptibility testing.
What do the results of this test mean?
Results indicate whether the TB bacteria are susceptible or resistant to each of the four drugs, guiding treatment decisions.
Is any preparation required before the test?
No special preparation is required; fasting is not needed.
Who should get this test done?
Individuals with symptoms of tuberculosis, a history of drug-resistant TB, or those not responding to standard TB therapy should consider this test.
What are the common symptoms of tuberculosis?
Common symptoms include persistent cough, chest pain, coughing up blood, fever, night sweats, weight loss, and fatigue.
How is tuberculosis diagnosed besides this test?
TB diagnosis often involves chest X-rays, sputum smears, PCR tests, Mantoux skin tests, and blood tests in addition to drug susceptibility testing.
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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We serve as a reference laboratory for hospitals and clinics across India. Send samples from your facility with same-day pickup, priority processing, and results delivered through our online portal. Competitive institutional pricing available.

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Your Data Privacy

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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