A diagnosis of tuberculosis typically includes which of the following tests?

A diagnosis of tuberculosis typically includes a chest X-ray because this imaging technique is essential for visualizing abnormalities in the lungs that are indicative of tuberculosis infection. When TB is suspected, a chest X-ray can reveal the presence of active disease, such as cavitation or consolidation in the lung fields, helping to confirm an initial diagnosis suggested by other tests.

While other tests do play roles in diagnosing TB—such as the skin prick test (which helps detect exposure to the bacteria) and potentially blood cultures (for more specific identification of the bacteria)—the chest X-ray remains a cornerstone method in the clinical evaluation of respiratory symptoms that may suggest tuberculosis. A spinal tap, in contrast, is not a routine test for TB and is mainly reserved for cases where central nervous system involvement is suspected.