GeneXpert Ultra (Next Generation) MTB with Rifampicin Resistance Semi Quantitative PCR Test
Short Name: GeneXpert Ultra MTB/RIF PCR
Also known as: GeneXpert Ultra MTB/RIF, Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra, MTB/RIF Semi Quantitative PCR
GeneXpert Ultra (Next Generation) MTB with Rifampicin Resistance Semi Quantitative PCR Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹3,500. Uses Real Time Nested PCR, Melt Peak Detection on Sputum, BAL fluid, CSF, Body fluids/Aspirates, Pus, Fresh tissue biopsy samples. Results in Sample accepted daily by 11 am; report delivered same day via online portal, email, or WhatsApp.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal
Consultant Microbiologist · Reg: 27670
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
This test is intended to detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex DNA and concurrently screen for rifampicin resistance, a marker for multidrug-resistant tuberculosis. The semi-quantitative result helps estimate bacterial load and may aid in monitoring treatment response when ordered serially.
- Test Code
- 3474
- Price
- ₹3,500
- Sample Type
- Sputum, BAL fluid, CSF, Body fluids/Aspirates, Pus, Fresh tissue biopsy
- Result Time
- Sample accepted daily by 11 am; report delivered same day via online portal, email, or WhatsApp.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Real Time Nested PCR, Melt Peak Detection
Sample Collection
No special preparation is required. For sputum samples, early morning deep cough specimen is preferred; rinse mouth with water before expectoration.
Method: Sputum collection, BAL fluid, CSF collection, sterile aspiration, pus collection, or tissue biopsy
Laboratory Analysis
Collect in a sterile screw capped container; avoid saliva contamination; for tissue/biopsy place in sterile normal saline.
Report Delivery
Seal container securely and ship refrigerated. Do not freeze.
Timeline: Sample accepted daily by 11 am; report delivered same day via online portal, email, or WhatsApp.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
This test is intended to detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex DNA and concurrently screen for rifampicin resistance, a marker for multidrug-resistant tuberculosis. The semi-quantitative result helps estimate bacterial load and may aid in monitoring treatment response when ordered serially.
How to Prepare
- Use a sterile screw-capped container.
- For sputum, collect deep cough specimen after rinsing mouth, not saliva.
- For CSF, body fluids, aspirates, pus, or tissue biopsies use aseptic technique and sterile container/normal saline.
- Label with patient identifiers and transport refrigerated to lab.
- Do not freeze.
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"GeneXpert Ultra provides rapid semi-quantitative MTB complex DNA detection and rifampicin resistance screening, aiding early diagnosis and management of presumptive pulmonary and extrapulmonary tuberculosis. It should be interpreted with clinical, radiological, and microbiological context."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Sample leaked or unlabeled
- Inadequate volume
- Frozen samples
- Non-sterile container or delayed beyond stability limits
Understanding Your Results
MTB DNA Not Detected
MTBC nucleic acid absent or below limit of detection; TB not ruled out
MTB DNA Detected (Trace/Low/Medium/High)
Active MTBC infection likely; bacterial load category helps monitor response
Rifampicin Resistance Not Detected
No common rifampicin resistance mutation detected; likely susceptible
Rifampicin Resistance Detected
Rifampicin resistance likely; multidrug-resistant TB suspected; refer for DST
Consult a physician or chest specialist if you have persistent cough, fever, night sweats, weight loss, hemoptysis, or recent contact with a TB patient. Do not self-interpret PCR results.
Limitations
- ⚠Semi-quantitative results are not absolute colony counts.
- ⚠Rifampicin susceptibility is qualitative and further DST is recommended for confirmation.
- ⚠Negative MTB PCR does not rule out tuberculosis; culture remains gold standard.
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minimal; sample collection may cause mild discomfort depending on site such as sputum, CSF, or aspiration.
Interfering Factors
- ●Improper sample collection, transportation delay, inadequate sample volume, or previous antibiotic exposure may affect results.
- ●Extrapulmonary paucibacillary specimens may yield false-negative results.
- ●Rifampicin resistance detection only covers common mutations; rare resistance mechanisms may require culture-based DST.
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | GeneXpert Ultra (Next Generation) MTB with Rifampicin Resistance Semi Quantitative PCR Test | ||||
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| Comparison | GeneXpert Ultra (Next Generation) MTB with Rifampicin Resistance Semi Quantitative PCR Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is GeneXpert Ultra MTB with Rifampicin Resistance Semi Quantitative PCR test?
What sample is required for this test?
Is fasting required for GeneXpert Ultra MTB/RIF PCR test?
How much does this test cost?
What does semi-quantitative mean in this test?
How quickly will I get the report?
Does this test detect drug resistance?
Can a negative result rule out tuberculosis?
What organisms are included in the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex?
How should the sample be transported?
Who should get this test?
Is this test used for monitoring tuberculosis treatment?
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