Multiplex PCR -Microarray-based Assay in the Detection of Mycobacterium
Multiplex PCR -Microarray-based Assay in the Detection of Mycobacterium
The study will use the VereMTB tool for rapid diagnosis of TB or non-tuberculous
 mycobacterium (NTM) pulmonary infections in hospitalised patients, with positive results in
 acid-fast bacilli smears, which are emerging in many regions of the world.
Delay in diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis was common in hospitalised patients all
 around the world, and was associated with poorer outcomes, including respiratory failure and
 mortality. Rapid and accurate tools for diagnosis of TB is of great importance in initial
 treatment and for better treatment outcomes. Other than TB, non-tuberculous mycobacterium
 (NTM) pulmonary infections are emerging in many regions of the world. These bacterium are
 more common to be found in respiratory specimens than MTB. With similar clinical presentation
 of NTM pulmonary infections and pulmonary TB, misdiagnosis of NTM pulmonary infections to
 pulmonary TB would lead to unnecessary intake of anti-TB medications and delay of the
 initiation of corresponding treatment.

 This test aims to detect MTB as well differentiate the NTM species involved in pulmonary
 infections simultaneously using VereMTB.
Inclusion Criteria:

 1. Age 18 or older

 2. One or more symptoms compatible with mycobacterial pulmonary infections, including
 fever, cough, sputum production,hemoptysis dyspnea, chest pain and weight loss

 3. One or more sputum samples with positive AFB smear

 Exclusion Criteria:

 1. Receiving anti-mycobacterial treatment for more than one week

 2. Refusal to consent