Genexpert PCR for Tuberculosis (TB)

Test Description

The Genexpert PCR (polymerase chain reaction) for Tuberculosis (TB), also known as the Xpert MTB/RIF assay, is a rapid molecular diagnostic test used to detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) and resistance to rifampin (RIF) in both pulmonary and extrapulmonary specimens. The assay performs sample processing and PCR analysis in a single hands-free step, allowing for the rapid diagnosis of TB disease and drug resistance[2][3].

Indications of the Test

The test is indicated for individuals suspected of having TB, especially those at risk of multidrug-resistant TB (MDR TB), as it can quickly identify possible MDR TB by detecting RIF resistance, which is a predictor of MDR TB[2][4].

Kenya is designated by WHO as a high TB burden country, and access to accurate testing is critical in addressing this public health challenge

Patient Preparation/Instructions

No special patient preparation is required for the Genexpert PCR test. The test typically involves the collection of sputum or other relevant specimens for analysis.

Typical Reference Values

The typical reference values for the Genexpert PCR test are the presence or absence of MTBC and RIF resistance in the patient’s specimen.

Turnaround Time

The assay can generally be completed in less than 48 hours, providing rapid results for the detection of TB and drug resistance[3][4].

Order This Test

To order the Genexpert test for TB from any part of Kenya, click the “Order Test” button and add it to your cart. Complete the checkout process, once we receive your order, we will organise for sample delivery.

If you face any challenges or have a question, click the WhatsApp chat Icon to speak to us.

Citations:
[1] Utility of the GeneXpert Mycobacterium tuberculosis/Rifampin (MTB/RIF) Assay on Paraffin-Embedded Biopsy Tissue Samples for Detecting Tuberculosis: Comparison With Histopathology https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7802736/
[2] TB Diagnostic Tool: Xpert MTB/RIF Assay Fact Sheet https://www.cdc.gov/tb/publications/factsheets/testing/xpert_mtb-rif.htm
[3] Evaluation of the GeneXpert MTB/RIF Assay for Rapid Diagnosis of Tuberculosis and Detection of Rifampin Resistance in Pulmonary and Extrapulmonary Specimens https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3232962/
[4] CS245594-A https://www.cdc.gov/tb/publications/factsheets/pdf/xpertmtb-rifassayfactsheet_final.pdf
[5] The Need https://www.cepheid.com/en-US/tests/tb-emerging-infectious-diseases/xpert-mtb-rif.html