- Male
- 34 Years
- 22/01/2025
Could you help me understand if a normal chest X-ray taken two months after being around someone with TB means I definitely don't have pulmonary TB? Also, can a chest X-ray reliably catch pulmonary TB, or should I be doing other tests? I'm a bit worried and just want to be sure.
Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors
Yes,chest x-ray and sputum for AFB and microscopy is advised to the patient for the diagnosis of tb.
Dr. Dr Khaleel Suggests...
Consult a Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist
Answered 04/07/2025
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Understanding Chest X-ray Limitations
- A normal chest X-ray is reassuring but does not completely rule out pulmonary TB, especially in early or latent stages.
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Role of Additional Tests
- Consider sputum smear microscopy, culture tests, and molecular tests (e.g., GeneXpert) for more definitive detection of active TB.
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Latent vs Active TB
- Latent TB may not show on X-ray, unlike active TB, which often presents with visible abnormalities.
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Follow-up Recommendations
- Monitor symptoms and repeat tests if symptoms develop. Consult a healthcare provider for tailored advice.
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Importance of Medical Evaluation
- Professional evaluation is crucial, especially after recent exposure, to decide on preventive therapy or further investigations.
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Relevant Medical Specialties
- Consult with pulmonologists or infectious disease specialists for a comprehensive assessment.
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Summary
- While a normal X-ray is a good sign, further tests may be needed to definitively rule out TB.
Recommended next steps
Consult a Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist or Take a GENEXPERT CLOSTRIDIUM DIFFICILE DETECTION Test
Answered 20/08/2025
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do sputum test once
Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors
So, I had this maid looking after my 1.5-year-old daughter for a few months, but she got sick once, even coughed up blood. I decided to let her go right after. This happened a couple of months back. I went ahead and got some tests done, like a sputum test for tuberculosis, which came back negative. But then she mentioned her dad passed away from TB 14 years ago. She's got a couple of sisters, a mom, and a brother in the family too. We did a digital x-ray and a helical CT chest scan, and those were normal. I'm just wondering, given her symptoms and her family history, is there still a possibility she might have active tuberculosis?
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Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors
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Disclaimer: Answers on Apollo 247 are not intended to replace your doctor advice. Always seek help of a professional doctor in case of an medical emergency or ailment.