TB PCR

Department

Microbiology - Bacteriology

Delphic Registration Code

TBG

Synonyms

TB PCR
Mycobacterium PCR
GeneXpert
AnyPlex

Turnaround Time

2 business days

Test Code

8240

Specimen Type

• Whole Blood
• Bone Marrow
• CSF
• Tissue
• Sputum
• Bronchial Washing
• Aspirate
• Fluid

Specimen Requirements

Tube/Container Type:

Preferred

• Pottle

Acceptable

• EDTA (Lavender Cap)

Preferred Sample Volume (ml)

5

Minimum Sample Volume (ml)

0.5

Additional Specimen Information

Sputum: will be decontaminated before PCR testing. (Monday - Friday 8:00 - 17:00).
PCR performed on direct specimens at weekend after discussion with Microbiologist.
Aspirates: >5mLs undiluted.
Blood or bone marrow - Collect into EDTA tube.
FNA or tissue biopsy - Collect into sterile container. Add saline to tissues if specimen is very small.
CSF - Minimum 1.0 ml but preferably 5.0 ml or more (consultation with Microbiologist desirable).

If fresh tissue specimens are not available paraffin block specimens are acceptable. Please send 10-12 sections to the laboratory in a labelled specimen container at room temperature.
These are able to be tested by GeneXpert or AnyPlex method.

Aliquot Instructions

Test Method

PCR for Mycobacterium tuberculosis is done by GeneXpert on request.

Seegene AnyPlex testing available for non-tuberculous mycobacteria after consultation with Microbiologist.

Non-Funded Test Cost

$270.81 (Exclusive of GST)

Billing Code

8240

GeneXpert allows for detection of M.tuberculosis and determination of Rifampicin susceptibility from direct specimens within 24 - 48 hours of receipt in the laboratory. For M.tuberculosis on ZN positive respiratory specimens, sensitivity and specificity is close to 100%. There is decreased sensitivity for ZN negative respiratory specimens and non-respiratory specimens.

GeneXpert XDR for determination of resistance to Isoniazid, Fluoroquinolones, Ethionamide and SILD will be performed on all newly diagnosed MTB cases.

Seegene AnyPlex allows for detection of MTB or other (non-speciated) mycobacteria. TAT: up to 7 days.
This test is not performed on routine respiratory specimens.
This is not a routine test. Batched at least weekly, urgent testing after consultation with a Microbiologist only.

Contact Information

Enquiry Form