MRCP UK EXAMINATIONS

Detailed explanation-1: -The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that two sputum examinations be performed during treatment follow-up of tuberculosis (TB) patients and that a positive result in any one of the samples be considered smear-positive.

Detailed explanation-2: -Collect 3 sputum specimens on 3 consecutive days unless otherwise instructed. Specimens should be kept in the refrigerator until they are submitted to the laboratory. To reduce the likelihood of transmission, patients are encouraged to collect sputum specimens outdoors when possible and away from other people.

Detailed explanation-3: -At least three consecutive sputum specimens are needed, each collected in 8-to 24-hour intervals, with at least one being an early morning specimen. If possible, specimens should be obtained in an airborne infection isolation (AII) room or other isolated, well-ventilated area (e.g., outdoors) (Figure 4.5).

Detailed explanation-4: -Several studies have shown that three serial sputum smear examination is ideal for diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis cases. The samples may vary from three consecutive early morning samples or SMS samples as a part of DOTS strategy.