Skip to main content
DNA Labs India

MALDI-TOF: MS Mycobacterium Speciation Test

DNA Labs India | ISO 9001:2015 Certified

MALDI-TOF: MS Mycobacterium Speciation Test

Short Name: MALDI-TOF Mycobacterium Test

Also known as: MALDI-TOF MS Mycobacterium Speciation, Mycobacterium Identification Test

MALDI-TOF: MS Mycobacterium Speciation Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹1,229. Uses MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry on Pure growth of Mycobacterium species on solid medium (LJ or Middlebrook agar) samples. Results in Same day report available. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

Diagnostic🏠 Home Collection

✍️ Written By

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal

Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal

Consultant Microbiologist · Reg: 27670

Last reviewed: September 7, 2026

Overview

To accurately identify and speciate Mycobacterium infections, enabling targeted treatment and management of diseases like tuberculosis and other mycobacterial conditions.

Test Code
1204
Price
₹1,229
Sample Type
Pure growth of Mycobacterium species on solid medium (LJ or Middlebrook agar)
Result Time
Same day report available
Fasting Required
No
Method
MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry
Step 1

Sample Collection

No special preparation required. Ensure physician prescription for test order.

Method: Swab or culture from infected site

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

Sample collected from infected site (e.g., sputum, tissue) and cultured on solid medium before submission.

Step 3

Report Delivery

Ship sample refrigerated; do not freeze. Ensure proper labeling and transport to lab.

Timeline: Same day report available

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:Consult physician for test order. No fasting or special preparation needed.
2
During the Test:Sample analyzed in laboratory using MALDI-TOF MS technology.
3
After the Test:Results reviewed and interpreted by a microbiologist. Report delivered as per chosen method.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

To accurately identify and speciate Mycobacterium infections, enabling targeted treatment and management of diseases like tuberculosis and other mycobacterial conditions.

How to Prepare

  • Submit pure growth of Mycobacterium on LJ or Middlebrook agar
  • Ship refrigerated at 2-8°C
  • Do not freeze the sample
  • Use appropriate transport medium if needed

Doctor's Notes

Reviewed by — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670

"This test is crucial for accurate identification of mycobacterial species, enabling targeted antibiotic therapy and improving patient outcomes in infections like tuberculosis."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypePure growth of Mycobacterium species on solid medium (LJ or Middlebrook agar)
Sample VolumeAs per growth
ContainerSolid medium slant or plate
Collection MethodSwab or culture from infected site

Sample Stability

Refrigerated
Room temperature
Frozen
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Sample received frozen
  • Contaminated or mixed culture
  • Improper transport conditions
  • Insufficient sample volume

Understanding Your Results

Results indicate the specific Mycobacterium species identified. A positive identification helps guide antibiotic therapy and infection control measures.
Report will list identified species (e.g., Mycobacterium tuberculosis)
Compare with clinical symptoms for diagnosis
Consult with physician for treatment planning
Repeat test if results are inconclusive
⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

If symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment, or if the test identifies a resistant strain, consult an infectious disease specialist.

Limitations

  • ⚠Requires pure culture of Mycobacterium species
  • ⚠May not detect all rare species
  • ⚠Dependent on quality of sample submission

Risks & Considerations

  • ●Minimal risk from sample collection (e.g., skin swab or biopsy)
  • ●Potential for false negatives if sample inadequate

Interfering Factors

  • ●Sample contamination
  • ●Improper storage (e.g., freezing)
  • ●Inadequate growth on medium

Compare With Similar Tests

TestMALDI-TOF: MS Mycobacterium Speciation Test
ComparisonMALDI-TOF: MS Mycobacterium Speciation Test

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the MALDI-TOF MS Mycobacterium Speciation Test?
It is a diagnostic test using mass spectrometry to identify mycobacterial species based on protein profiles, offering rapid and accurate results.
How much does the test cost at DNA Labs India?
The test costs INR 1228.5, with free home sample collection available across India.
What sample is required for this test?
A pure growth of Mycobacterium species on solid medium, such as Löwenstein-Jensen or Middlebrook agar, is required.
Is fasting required before the test?
No, no special preparation or fasting is required for this test.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available on the same day the sample is received by the lab.
What are the common symptoms indicating this test?
Symptoms include persistent cough, fever, night sweats, weight loss, fatigue, shortness of breath, chest pain, skin issues, and bone pain.
Is home sample collection available?
Yes, DNA Labs India offers free home sample collection for online bookings in many cities across India.
How accurate is MALDI-TOF MS for mycobacteria?
It is highly accurate for speciation, especially when traditional methods fail, but depends on sample quality.
Can this test detect tuberculosis?
Yes, it can identify Mycobacterium tuberculosis and other mycobacterial species.
What should I do if the test result is positive?
Consult your physician or an infectious disease specialist for appropriate treatment and management.
Are there any risks associated with this test?
Risks are minimal, mainly related to sample collection, such as slight discomfort from a biopsy.
Is this test covered by insurance?
Coverage depends on your insurance policy; it is not typically covered under government schemes like PMJAY without verification.
Worried about the process? Our certified phlebotomists collect thousands of samples every month across India. The process takes under 5 minutes and is virtually painless. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp — we're here 7 days a week.

Related Tests

BioFire GI (Gastrointestinal) Panel Stool Test

₹27,000

Pneumonia Plus Panel Test

₹27,000

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) DNA Quantitative PCR Test

₹6,000

Dengue & Chikungunya Viruses PCR Qualitative Test

₹5,265

Epstein Barr Virus (EBV) Qualitative PCR Test

₹6,000

GeneXpert MTB Combo.com Test

₹4,500
For Hospitals & Clinics

Reference Laboratory Services

We serve as a reference laboratory for hospitals and clinics across India. Send samples from your facility with same-day pickup, priority processing, and results delivered through our online portal. Competitive institutional pricing available.

LIMS Integration

Your Data Privacy

Your medical data is protected under Indian law.

✓ Stored in India: All patient records are stored on servers located in India. No data is transferred outside the country.

✓ DPDP Act Compliant: Under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023, you can request deletion of your records at any time by contacting support.

Book Your Test

Enter your details and we'll connect you within 15 minutes.

🧬

Quick Connect

Enter your mobile number and we’ll connect you with the team.

+91

✅ Connecting you now...

🔒 Your number is used to respond to this request.