What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing a persistent cough lasting weeks, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, or fatigue that won't go away. It helps confirm whether Mycobacterium tuberculosis (the bacteria that causes TB) is present in your sputum, and if so, whether it's resistant to the antibiotic rifampin. This is especially useful if you've had known TB exposure, traveled to an area where TB is common, or have a weakened immune system.

What's included in this test?

This test combines a culture (growing the bacteria in a lab to confirm infection) with PCR technology (a fast genetic test) to detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex directly from a sputum sample. It also checks specifically for rifampin resistance, which matters because rifampin is one of the main first-line drugs used to treat TB, and resistance changes how the infection needs to be treated.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your online account, with a clear explanation of what a positive or negative result means for this test. If your result comes back positive, treatment needs to start quickly, so seek medical care right away since active TB can spread to others. If negative but you still have symptoms, retesting or additional evaluation may be needed. You can download the full lab report from your account anytime, and if you're retested later, you can track results over time using the trends feature.

How can I naturally support my immune system while managing TB risk?

While no natural remedy replaces proper testing and treatment for TB, supporting your immune system can help your body fight infections in general. Eating a balanced diet with enough protein, vitamin D, and zinc supports immune function, and getting consistent sleep helps your body recover. Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol also reduces strain on your lungs and immune system. If you have symptoms of active TB, these steps are not a substitute for prompt medical evaluation.

When will I get my results?

Results for this test typically take about 7 days because the culture portion requires time for bacteria to grow in the lab, while the PCR portion can identify genetic material more quickly. You'll be notified as soon as your results are ready in your online account. Because TB testing involves a slower culture process, please plan for this turnaround time rather than expecting same-day results.

Who should consider this test?

This test is a good option for people with a persistent cough, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, or known exposure to someone with active TB. It's also useful for people who have traveled to or lived in regions with high TB rates, or those with weakened immune systems who are at higher risk. If you've had a positive TB skin or blood screening test already, this sputum test helps confirm active infection and check for drug resistance.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common symptoms that suggest you might need this test include a cough lasting three weeks or longer, coughing up blood or mucus, chest pain, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, fever, and night sweats. These symptoms can point to active TB in the lungs, especially if you've had contact with someone diagnosed with TB. If you notice these signs, especially combined with known exposure, getting tested promptly is important since TB can spread to others through the air.

What is Mycobacterium tuberculosis and why does it matter?

Mycobacterium tuberculosis is the bacteria that causes tuberculosis, a serious infection that usually attacks the lungs but can spread to other parts of the body. It matters because TB spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, making early detection important for both personal health and public safety. Untreated active TB can cause serious lung damage and can be fatal if not treated properly.

What does a positive rifampin resistance result mean?

A positive rifampin resistance result means the TB bacteria found in your sample won't respond well to rifampin, one of the standard first-line antibiotics used to treat TB. This is significant because it usually means a different, often longer treatment plan is needed to clear the infection. If you receive this result, it's important to seek medical care promptly so an appropriate treatment plan can be started.

How often should I retest for TB?

If your first test is negative but you continue to have symptoms or ongoing exposure to someone with active TB, retesting after a few weeks may be recommended. People at high risk, such as healthcare workers or those in close contact with TB patients, may also benefit from periodic retesting as part of routine monitoring. Tracking results over time in your account can help you and anyone monitoring your health see patterns clearly.

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 Sputum Test - Culture & Rifampin Resistance Check

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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