You may feel a scratching sensation while the tube is present. Anytime a tube is inserted down the back of the throat, a slight chance exists that the tube can enter the trachea instead of the esophagus. If this happens, you will cough and gasp. Occasionally, tubes inserted through the esophagus may cause arrhythmias , but this is uncommon. The test may also be used to determine the bacteria causing septicemia in your infant.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis is the strain that causes the disease known as tuberculosis.
If possible, antibiotic therapy should be started shortly after this test is completed. Failure to fast for 8 hours prior to the test may alter the test results.