How do you confirm if you have TB?

Confirming if you have tuberculosis (TB) involves a comprehensive evaluation that combines medical history, physical examination, and various tests.

Here are the key steps involved:

1. Medical history: Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, travel history, and any potential exposure to TB.
2. Physical examination: This includes listening to your lungs for any unusual sounds.
3. Test for TB infection (TB blood test or TB skin test): These tests can determine if you have been exposed to the TB bacterium.
4. Chest x-ray: This helps to visualize your lungs for any signs of TB infection.
5. Laboratory tests to see if TB germs are present (sputum smear and culture): These tests are used to identify the TB bacteria in your phlegm.
6. Laboratory tests for drug resistance: These tests help to determine if the TB bacteria is resistant to common TB medications.

If you have symptoms of TB disease, a positive TB blood test or TB skin test, and your healthcare provider finds evidence of active TB disease through the above tests, then you will likely be diagnosed with TB.