A radiograph is essential in the diagnosis of the disease. The typical radiological lesions are apical, in the right of the chest, in posterior segments and generally form cavities.
The basic tool for the diagnosis of tuberculosis is a bacteriology (smear and culture) due to its high specificity, sensitivity and predictive value. In situations where bacteriological studies are not conclusive for diagnosis, it is necessary to properly monitor the patient in accordance with the health services organization using other criteria: clinical, epidemiological, imaging, immunological, anatomopathological.
Every person diagnosed with tuberculosis must have the diagnostic test for HIV.