| This test allows for detection and identification of M.tuberculosis, M.avium and M.intracellularae from direct specimens within 24 hours of receipt in the laboratory. For M.tuberculosis on ZN positive respiratory specimens sensitivity and specificity is close to 100%. For M.avium/intracellularae (respiratory specimens) the sensitivity is approximately 92% and specificity 98.5%. There is decreased sensitivity for ZN negative respiratory specimens and non-respiratory specimens. These tests can be requested separately.
Method:
Polymerase Chain Reaction - semi-automated method from Roche for detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. M.avium and M.intracellularae from direct specimen and culture are done by in house PCR.
Patient sample:
Sputum - will be decontaminated before PCR testing.
Plueral fluid - >5mLs undiluted or in EDTA tube.
Blood or bone marrow - Collect into EDTA tube if unable to pur directly into TB blood bottle (available on request).
FNA or tissue biopsy - Collect into sterile container.
CSF - Minimum 1.0 mL but preferably 5.0 mLs or more (consultation with Microbiologist desirable).
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