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TB Tests in India: CBNAAT, Sputum, X-ray, Mantoux and IGRA Explained

What each TB test looks for, which you need, and where it is free.

Written from official TB programme sources Updated 16 Oct 2026 3 min read

TB is confirmed by finding TB bacteria in a sample from the body, most often phlegm (sputum). India’s programme offers rapid molecular tests that also check for drug resistance. Tests are free at government health facilities.

हिंदी में सार

टीबी की पुष्टि जाँच से होती है, आमतौर पर बलगम (स्पुटम) की जाँच से। सरकारी केंद्रों पर CBNAAT या Truenat जैसी तेज़ मॉलिक्यूलर जाँच मुफ़्त होती है, जिससे दवा-प्रतिरोध का भी पता चलता है। एक्स-रे से संकेत मिलता है, पर पक्की जाँच बलगम से होती है। मांटू और IGRA संक्रमण की जाँच हैं, बीमारी की नहीं।

FreeTB tests at government facilities
NAAToffered to all notified new patients
Rifampicinresistance checked by NAAT
2 to 5 mlof good sputum is needed

Which test does what

TestWhat it looks forUsed for
CBNAAT, Truenat (NAAT)TB bacteria genes and rifampicin resistanceConfirming TB and choosing the right medicines
Sputum smear microscopyTB bacteria seen under a microscopeConfirmation in some settings, and follow-up during treatment
Culture and line probe assayGrowing TB bacteria, and resistance to more drugsWhen TB is detected, to test drug resistance in detail
Chest X-rayChanges in the lungsScreening and support for diagnosis
Mantoux (TST) or IGRAImmune response to TB germsFinding TB infection before preventive treatment

The usual path from cough to result

  1. See a doctor

    Tell them how long you have had symptoms and whether anyone at home has TB.

  2. Give sputum samples

    Your phlegm is tested with NAAT. If TB is detected, a second sample may go for detailed drug-resistance tests.

  3. X-ray or other tests if needed

    A chest X-ray, or samples from a gland, fluid or tissue for TB outside the lungs.

  4. Results and next steps

    If TB is found you are notified on Ni-kshay and start free treatment. If not, the doctor looks for other causes.

CBNAAT and TruenatRapid molecular tests that find TB and rifampicin resistance.Sputum testHow to give a good phlegm sample, and why it matters.Chest X-rayWhat an X-ray can and cannot tell you.Mantoux and IGRATests for TB infection, used before preventive treatment.
Do not guess. Get a free TB test.

Symptoms alone cannot tell you whether you have TB. If you have a cough or fever for 2 weeks or more, weight loss, night sweats or blood in your phlegm, go to your nearest government health facility and ask for a TB test. TB testing and treatment are free there.

Free TB helpline Ni-kshay Sampark: 1800-11-6666.

Should I get tested?Answer a few yes or no questions based on the official TB warning signs. Nothing is saved.

Start the checklist

Frequently asked questions

Is the TB test free?

Yes. TB tests and treatment are free at government health facilities, and notified patients of private doctors can get free tests through the programme.

Can a blood test diagnose TB?

Routine blood tests cannot confirm active TB. IGRA, a blood test, shows TB infection, not whether you have TB disease. Sputum or other samples are used to confirm TB.

What does “MTB detected” mean?

TB bacteria were found. Your doctor will start treatment and check the rifampicin resistance result.

How is TB tested in children?

The programme refers children directly for NAAT. Doctors also use weight, symptoms, contact history and an X-ray.

Medical review note. Written from official TB programme guidelines; last checked 16 October 2026. This is general information, not medical advice. For diagnosis and treatment, see a doctor at your nearest government health facility.