What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing a persistent cough, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, or fatigue that won't go away, especially if you've been around someone with tuberculosis. It looks for genetic material from the bacteria that cause tuberculosis (TB) in a non-respiratory sample, like fluid or tissue, rather than lung samples. It's a fast way to check whether TB might be behind symptoms outside the lungs, such as in the lymph nodes, bones, or other organs.

How should I prepare for this test?

See the pre-collection instructions on your order confirmation.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your online account with a plain-language explanation of what a positive or negative result means. If your result is positive, the report will outline next steps, and because TB is a reportable and treatable condition, prompt follow-up care is important. You can download a standard lab report anytime from your account, and if you're retested later, the trends feature lets you compare results side by side over time.

Who should consider this test?

Anyone with symptoms suggesting TB outside the lungs, such as swollen lymph nodes, unexplained joint or bone pain, or fluid buildup, should consider this test. It's also useful for people who've had close contact with someone diagnosed with active TB or who have a weakened immune system, which raises TB risk. If you've had an unclear TB skin or blood screening result, this test can help clarify things further.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common signs include a low-grade fever that lingers, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue that doesn't improve with rest. If the infection affects organs outside the lungs, you might also notice swollen lymph nodes, joint pain, or unusual swelling in the abdomen. Anyone with these symptoms after known TB exposure should consider getting tested.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days after your sample is collected. You'll get a notification as soon as they're posted to your secure online account. This turnaround allows time for the lab to run the specialized PCR analysis needed to detect TB genetic material accurately.

What is tuberculosis and why does it matter?

Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis that most often affects the lungs but can spread to other parts of the body, including lymph nodes, bones, and organs. It matters because untreated TB can cause serious, long-term damage and can spread to others if it's active. Catching it early makes treatment simpler and much more effective.

What does a positive result mean?

A positive result means genetic material from the TB bacteria was found in your sample, suggesting an active infection outside the lungs. This doesn't automatically mean advanced disease, but it does mean timely care is needed to prevent it from getting worse or spreading. Isolating from close contacts and seeking prompt care are important immediate steps.

What causes a false or unclear result?

Sample quality matters a lot with PCR testing, so if the fluid or tissue sample didn't contain enough bacterial material, a result could come back unclear even with a real infection. Certain medications or a very early-stage infection can also affect accuracy. If your result doesn't match your symptoms, retesting or additional sample types may be recommended.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

If your result is positive, it's important to seek medical care right away since TB requires specific antibiotic treatment over several months. Avoid close contact with others, especially those with weakened immune systems, until you've been evaluated further. Keep a copy of your report handy since it will be useful for coordinating any follow-up testing or treatment.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

TB PCR Test - Non-Respiratory Tuberculosis Detection

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

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