TB Sensitivity (Streptomycin) Test

TB Sensitivity (Streptomycin) is a test to ascertain whether a human body infected with TB will respond to Streptomycin. An antibiotic, Streptomycin is used to treat a number of bacterial infections including Tuberculosis (TB). A sensitivity test, also known as susceptibility test, is performed to determine the effectiveness of an antibiotic drug in stopping the growth of the bacteria causing the infection. Results of sensitivity testing are usually reported as Susceptible, Intermediate, or Resistant after which the practitioner decides whether to prescribe the drug or not. Samples may be taken from blood, urine or sputum (spit).

There is no special preparation required before the test. It is recommended that you wear loose fitting clothes for the test. Wearing sleeveless or short-sleeved shirt should be preferred.

You are not required to change or alter your diet. Drinking water and staying hydrated is highly encouraged before the test as it helps in drawing the blood easily and with no or little pain. Ask your lab provider or doctor beforehand, if you are required to fast or not and any other instructions to be followed during the test especially if you are taking any medication for TB.

TB Sensitivity (Streptomycin) is a test which helps in determining whether Streptomycin, an antibiotic,
will be effective in stopping the TB bacteria or not. The results may take about two to six weeks after the
test.

To determine the ability of the drug to kill the bacteria.
The grown bacteria, known as culture, when spread forms colonies which are exposed to the
antibiotic.
Susceptible means antibiotic is effective against the bacteria.
Resistant means an ineffective antibiotic.

Intermediate means a higher dose of the antibiotic is needed to prevent growth.

Few millilitres of blood would be obtained from your body. The entire procedure will not take more than 15minutes or so. A well-trained phlebotomist will assist you in the entire process. • A tight band is put on the arm to slow the blood flow and causing the vein to swell. • An antiseptic wipe or cotton dipped in alcohol is used to clean the area of skin. • A needle is then injected through the rinsed area into your vein and a blood sample is drawn. • The blood is saved in a container and labelled with your name and details. • This sample is carried to the research laboratory for further examination.