An in-house multiplex PCR test for the detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis its validation comparison with a single target TB-PCR kit

摘要

Background & objectives:The conventional techniques used in TB diagnosis like AFB (acid fast bacilli) smear microscopy lack sensitivity and the gold standard, culture test takes time. A test based on multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting the 38 kDa gene and IS6110 insertion sequence, specific to Mycobacterium tuberculosis was developed to further increase the sensitivity of a TB-PCR kit targeting only 38 kDa gene developed earlier in the same laboratory. The multiplex test was validated using sputum samples from pulmonary TB (PTB) cases. The sensitivity and specificity were compared with AFB smear examination and Lowenstein-Jensen (LJ) culture test.