What does AFB mean in LABORATORY

Acid-fast bacilli (AFB) are a type of Gram-positive bacteria with a waxy outer coating that makes them resistant to decolorization by acids during laboratory staining procedures. They are part of the Mycobacterium family, which includes common pathogenic bacteria like tuberculosis and leprosy.

Acid-fast bacilli can be identified using the Ziehl-Neelsen staining method or fluorescent microscopy. These methods involve using dyes to coat and color the bacteria so they can be seen more easily under a microscope.

Yes, some species of acid-fast bacillus are capable of causing disease in humans and other animals if ingested or touched. Generally, these infections occur most commonly in individuals with weakened immune systems due to HIV/AIDS or other conditions, so it's important to practice good hygiene when handling patients or specimens that may contain AFB.

Acid-fast bacilli can cause a variety of diseases depending on the species present. Common illnesses include tuberculosis, leprosy, disseminated mycobacteriosis, atypical mycobacterial pneumonia and lymphadenitis.

Depending on the severity of the infection caused by AFB, treatments may include antibiotics such as rifampicin and ethambutol or topical treatment with creams containing antifungal medications like clotrimazole or miconazole. In severe cases where surgical intervention is necessary to clear any abscesses caused by AFB infection, surgery may also be recommended.