Cultured AFB Antitubercular DST Rifabutin Test
Understanding Tuberculosis Drug Sensitivity Testing
The Cultured AFB Antitubercular DST Rifabutin Test represents a critical advancement in tuberculosis management, specifically designed to detect resistance to rifabutin – an important second-line anti-tuberculosis medication. This specialized diagnostic tool plays a vital role in the global fight against drug-resistant tuberculosis, which has become increasingly prevalent worldwide.
Tuberculosis remains one of the most significant infectious disease challenges globally, and the emergence of drug-resistant strains has complicated treatment protocols. The ability to accurately identify medication resistance patterns is essential for developing effective, personalized treatment strategies that can successfully combat this persistent pathogen.
What Does This Test Measure?
The Cultured AFB Antitubercular DST Rifabutin Test specifically evaluates the sensitivity of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex to rifabutin through sophisticated laboratory analysis. This test measures:
- Bacterial growth inhibition in the presence of rifabutin
- Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values for rifabutin
- Resistance patterns that may indicate cross-resistance with other rifamycins
- Bacterial viability and growth characteristics under drug pressure
Using automated fluorescent technology, the test provides highly accurate, quantitative results that help clinicians determine whether rifabutin will be effective against a particular TB strain.
Who Should Consider This Test?
Several patient populations may benefit from rifabutin sensitivity testing:
Patients with Treatment-Resistant Tuberculosis
- Individuals showing poor response to first-line TB medications
- Patients with persistent positive cultures after initial treatment
- Those experiencing clinical deterioration despite standard therapy
High-Risk Exposure Groups
- Healthcare workers exposed to drug-resistant TB cases
- Close contacts of patients with known rifabutin-resistant TB
- Immigrants from regions with high rates of drug-resistant tuberculosis
Special Clinical Scenarios
- HIV-positive patients requiring TB prophylaxis or treatment
- Individuals with contraindications to other rifamycins
- Patients requiring second-line TB treatment regimens
Key Benefits of Rifabutin Sensitivity Testing
Undergoing the Cultured AFB Antitubercular DST Rifabutin Test offers numerous advantages for both patients and healthcare providers:
Personalized Treatment Planning
The test results enable physicians to create customized treatment regimens based on the specific resistance profile of the infecting TB strain, potentially avoiding ineffective medications and associated side effects.
Improved Treatment Outcomes
By identifying effective anti-TB medications early in the treatment course, patients can achieve faster clinical improvement and reduced risk of treatment failure or relapse.
Public Health Protection
Accurate detection of drug resistance helps prevent the spread of resistant TB strains within communities, contributing to broader public health safety.
Cost-Effective Care
Targeted therapy based on sensitivity results can reduce overall healthcare costs by eliminating unnecessary medications and preventing prolonged illness.
Understanding Your Test Results
Interpreting the results of your Cultured AFB Antitubercular DST Rifabutin Test requires professional medical expertise, but here’s a general guide to understanding the findings:
Sensitive Results
If your test shows sensitivity to rifabutin, this indicates that the medication is likely to be effective against your TB infection. Your physician may include rifabutin in your treatment regimen, particularly if you cannot tolerate other rifamycins or have specific clinical needs.
Resistant Results
Resistance to rifabutin suggests that this medication will not effectively treat your TB infection. This finding often indicates cross-resistance with other rifamycins, requiring alternative treatment strategies and potentially more complex medication regimens.
Intermediate Results
Some results may show intermediate sensitivity, suggesting that higher doses of rifabutin might be effective or that the medication could be used in combination with other drugs. Your physician will interpret these nuanced findings in the context of your overall clinical picture.
Test Pricing and Availability
| Price Type | Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Discount Price | $106 |
| Regular Price | $162 |
Nationwide Testing Availability
GGC DNA maintains comprehensive testing facilities across the United States, with convenient locations in all major metropolitan areas including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, Phoenix, Philadelphia, San Antonio, San Diego, Dallas, and San Jose. Our state-of-the-art laboratories ensure consistent, reliable results regardless of your location.
Sample Collection and Processing
This test requires submission of pure growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex on appropriate media in a sterile screw-capped container within a sealed plastic bag. Samples should be shipped refrigerated. Alternatively, when used with other AFB culture or Mycobacteria identification tests, the pure growth obtained in our laboratory from previously submitted specimens will be processed for antitubercular sensitivity analysis.
Turnaround Time: Samples accepted daily by 3:30 PM | Reports available in 21 days
Take Control of Your Tuberculosis Treatment
Don’t leave your TB treatment to chance. The Cultured AFB Antitubercular DST Rifabutin Test provides the critical information needed to develop an effective, personalized treatment plan. With drug-resistant tuberculosis on the rise worldwide, knowing your specific resistance profile has never been more important.
Ready to get tested? Call us today at +1(267) 388-9828 or book your appointment online. Our knowledgeable staff is available to answer your questions and guide you through the testing process.
Early detection of medication resistance can make the difference between successful treatment and prolonged illness. Trust GGC DNA for accurate, reliable tuberculosis drug sensitivity testing that puts your health first.

