Latent TB LAB TEST AFTER Treatment Course

[zafr]

Hello

Is there any lab test for LTB, to make sure TB- bacteria is completely killed off , Once LTB treatment course is completed

I am waiting for answer

thanks

[Deniseelk]

I was recently treated with 3 months antibiotics for latent TB and told if they re-test ( through blood test) it still shows a marker that my body has carried the bacteria ( albeit latent). So no re-testing is done. That is why the TB specialist carries out so many careful tests ( bloods and chest x-rays) before deciding on your best course of antibiotics. It is also important that you take the antibiotics daily exactly as the specialist advises to ensure the bacteria is killed off.

[HelenC Partner TB Alert]

Hi Zafr,

Deniseelk is correct. TB tests look for antibodies that your immune system produces when it comes into contact with TB bacteria. These antibodies remain with you even after any TB bacteria is killed - which is good for future immunity but not for repeat testing.

As long as you take all the medication as prescribed, there is a very good chance that the latent TB bacteria will be cleared completely. That said, it is always worth knowing the signs of TB so that you can take quick action if you ever fall ill: cough, fever, night sweats, weight loss, loss of appetite, tiredness.

Good luck with your treatment.

Helen