Question

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Explanation:

Identify the gold standard diagnostic test for active tuberculosis

Active tuberculosis (TB) disease is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. While clinical symptoms (such as weight loss, fever, and cough) and history raise suspicion, a definitive, confirmatory diagnosis requires isolating and identifying the bacteria from a clinical specimen.

Evaluate the given options

• Evidence of weight loss: A non-specific clinical symptom that supports but does not confirm a diagnosis.
• Symptom history: Useful for screening and clinical suspicion, but cannot confirm active bacterial infection.
• Sputum culture: The gold standard microbiological test that grows and identifies Mycobacterium tuberculosis, confirming active TB disease.
• Electrocardiogram: A test of cardiac electrical activity, completely unrelated to TB diagnosis.

Answer:

• (A) Evidence of weight loss
• (B) Symptom history
• (C) Sputum culture (Correct answer)
• (D) Electrocardiogram