Description
Bacterial culture is the gold-standard method for diagnosis of Mycobacterial infection. Molecular methods can also be used to detect Mycobacterial DNA directly from clinical specimens. They can also be used to identify cultured organisms, in particular from liquid culture media from positive flagging bottles, providing accurate identification of acid-fast organisms several days before traditional methods. Several different targets in the Mycobacterial genome have been utilised. We have designed and validated two multiplexed real-time PCR assays that can detect all clinically relevant Mycobacteria species, quickly differentiating M. tuberculosis complex from NTM, BCG from the other memebsr of the M. tuberculosis complex and also RGM from the slow-growing NTM. Sequencing of amplicons can further identify organims to species level. This assay can rapidly confirm whether liquid cultures that flag positive contain M. tuberculosis complex (and whether it is a BCG or a non-BCG strain), rapidly and accurately identify Mycobacteria to species level when they are isolated in liquid culture (or on solid media) and allows primary detection of Mycobacteria in clinical samples. (This is always in addition to culture). The assay includes an internal control PCR
Also known as
Mycobacterium tuberculosis PCR, Mycobacterial PCR, M. tb PCR, TB PCR, tuberculosis PCR, Atypical Mycobacteria PCR
Request a test
To request this test please send sample with a request providing patient ID (three identifiers), specimen information, assay required, relevant clinical details and sender information. Before sending sample please read details on requesting and labelling by clicking on the link. Please also refer to any additional information provided for this test.
Additional information
Two mutiplexed PCR assays that detect specific M. tuberculosis complex targets and Mycobacterial species targets.
Sending address
Microbiology, Virology and Infection Control
Level 4, Camelia Botnar Laboratories
Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children
Great Ormond Street
London
WC1N 3JH
DX number: DX6640203
DX Exchange: Bloomsbury 91WC
Laboratory service
Microbiology, Virology and Infection Control
Sample requirements
Any sample from a normally sterile site. Respiratory samples. Liquid cultures. Minimum volume 200 microlitres
Reference range
Not applicable
Turnaround time
24 hours
Disease / group
Mycobacterial infection
Cost
Upon request
Call in advance?
Not required