GeneXpert MTB/RIF Resistance (Extrapulmonary) Test

• Diagnose extrapulmonary tuberculosis (EPTB): This rapid test helps identify if Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB), the bacteria causing TB, is present in samples from outside the lungs (e.g., lymph nodes, pleural fluid).
• Detect Rifampicin resistance: Along with identifying MTB, GeneXpert also checks for resistance to Rifampicin, a crucial antibiotic in TB treatment. Early detection of resistance allows for adjusting treatment plans for better outcomes.
• Faster results compared to traditional methods: GeneXpert delivers results within hours, significantly faster than conventional culture tests which can take weeks. This quicker turnaround time allows for faster initiation of appropriate treatment.
• Improved accuracy for EPTB diagnosis: EPTB diagnosis can be challenging with traditional methods. GeneXpert offers higher accuracy compared to sputum smear microscopy, a common test for pulmonary TB, which may not be reliable for extrapulmonary cases.

Your doctor may recommend this test for you if you show symptoms of multidrug-resistant TB. MDR-TB or HIV Infected TB. The symptoms include:

• Coughing continuously
• Blood in cough
• Chest pain
• Night sweats
• Sudden weight loss

The GeneXpert MTB/RIF Resistance (Extra pulmonary) test detects two key things:

• Presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB): This is the bacteria that causes tuberculosis (TB). The test detects the genetic material (RNA) of MTB in a sample taken from outside the lungs (extrapulmonary).
• Rifampicin resistance: This test also checks if the M. tuberculosis bacteria present is resistant to Rifampicin, a critical antibiotic used in TB treatment.