AFB Susc. Rifampicin

What is the AFB Susceptibility to Rifampicin Test?

This test determines the sensitivity or resistance of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (AFB) to rifampicin, a critical first-line drug used in tuberculosis (TB) treatment.


Who should get this test?

This test is recommended for:

Patients diagnosed with active TB to assess drug resistance.
Individuals with a history of incomplete TB treatment.
Patients showing poor response to standard TB treatment.



How is the test performed?

A sputum or tissue sample is cultured, and rifampicin susceptibility is assessed using molecular techniques like GeneXpert, MGIT, or Line Probe Assay (LPA).


What do the results indicate?


Sensitive to Rifampicin: Indicates the TB bacteria can be treated effectively with rifampicin.
Resistant to Rifampicin: Suggests multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) requiring alternate treatment.



Why is this test important?

Detecting rifampicin resistance is crucial for guiding appropriate TB treatment and preventing the spread of MDR-TB.