Overview:
What is this test?
This laboratory molecular test is performed on a sputum sample to rapidly diagnose Tuberculosis and the sensitivity of Mycobacterium tuberculosis towards Rifampicin. This test is highly sensitive and specific for Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
Why is this test performed?
This test is performed:
- For Rapid diagnosis of Tuberculosis, within 90 minutes as compared to standard cultures which take 2 to 6 weeks
- To find out resistance towards antibiotic Rifampicin rapidly, which can take an additional of 3 weeks
- Test results help in devising a better treatment plan.
Collecting sample: A sample of lower respiratory, morning sputum is collected in a sterile container provided by the laboratory
A reagent is mixed with the sample and place under the geneXpert machine
Test results are provided within 2 hours.
- What is tuberculosis?
TB is a serious bacterial infection caused by mycobacterium tuberculosis. It majorly affects the lungs.
- Is this test cost-effective?
Yes, rapid results from this test may contribute to cost-effectiveness. If the test results are negative, the cost of unnecessary treatment and isolation in hospital can be cut down.
- What are the advantages of this test?
- Rapid results as compared to conventional testing
- Minimal training is required to perform this test
- Infection control decisions can be made quickly
- It is bio-safe.
- Do I need to get further tested if the test results are negative?
This test is an initial diagnostic test only. WHO recommends further testing if the test results are negative.
- What happens if I can’t cough up enough sputum for the sample?
Other methods of collecting sample include:
- Inducing sputum by inhaling saline aerosol
- With the help of a bronchoscope.
- What is sputum?
Sputum is a thick mucus and saliva produced by the respiratory tract in reaction to an infection. It should not be confused with saliva.
- How is tuberculosis treated?
Tuberculosis is treated by monotherapy or combination of the following medicines:
- Isoniazid
- Rifampicin
- Ethambutol
- Pyrazinamide
- Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTC)Absent
- Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTC)Present
- Invalid: Test should be repeated.
- Rifampicin resistance Detected
- Rifampicin resistance Not detected
- Rifampicin resistance Indeterminate
Interpretation of test results:
- MTC absent: Tuberculosis infection absent
- MTC present: Indicating Tuberculosis
- RIF resistance detected: Bacteria resistant to the effect of Rifampicin
- RIF resistance not detected: Bacteria susceptible to the effect of Rifampicin.
You should get tested if you have symptoms of tuberculosis such as:
- Chronic cough
- Fever
- Chills
- Unexplained weight loss
- Night sweats
- Loss of appetite
If your doctor suspects multi-drug resistance tuberculosis.