How is pulmonary tuberculosis diagnosed?

Aug 24, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Guo Xiheng

Introduction

Tuberculosis can be detected through immunological tests, such as the tuberculin skin test. Serological diagnosis—facilitated by advances in molecular biology and immunology research on mycobacteria—employs methods including enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), dot immunofiltration assay (DIFA), indirect fluorescent antibody test, and protein chip assays to detect relevant antibodies in patient serum, sputum, pleural effusion, and other body fluids.

Tuberculosis (TB) is a common disease. Due to environmental pollution and deteriorating air quality, individuals with weakened immunity are increasingly susceptible to TB and require prompt treatment. Coughing often worsens following pulmonary tuberculosis. So how is pulmonary tuberculosis diagnosed?

How Is Pulmonary Tuberculosis Diagnosed?

TB can be detected through immunological tests, tuberculin skin tests (TST), and other methods. Serological diagnosis—facilitated by advances in molecular biology and immunology research on mycobacteria—employs techniques such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), dot immunogold filtration assay (DIGFA), indirect fluorescent antibody testing, and protein chip assays to detect relevant antibodies in patient serum, sputum, pleural effusion, and other body fluids. ELISA is commonly used to measure interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) released by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) upon stimulation with specific TB antigens—this assay is known as the IFN-γ release assay (IGRA) and is widely applied in TB diagnosis.

It is essential to cultivate healthy habits, such as refraining from spitting indiscriminately in public. Sputum from TB patients should be either incinerated or disinfected with appropriate agents. Regular physical examinations for adolescents are recommended to enable early detection, isolation, and treatment. Medical education networks should promptly collect and organize data on Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) vaccination for infants and young children to promote immune development and reduce TB incidence.

In daily life, maintaining sound living and dietary habits is crucial. We hope this information proves helpful to you.

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