MTB Complex / MOTT (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test
Short Name: MTB/MOTT RNA Qualitative
Also known as: TB RNA PCR, Mycobacterium tuberculosis RNA detection, MTB/MOTT PCR
MTB Complex / MOTT (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹5,780. Uses Real Time PCR on C.S.F., Pleural fluid, Synovial fluid, Sputum, Pus, Tissue, Bronchial lavage, Urine, Endometrium, Culture cells, Biopsy, Fine needle aspirations, Ascites samples. Results in Reports are available on the 3rd working day. Email reports within 36 hours, phone support 24 hours.. 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
The purpose of the MTB Complex / MOTT (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test is to detect the presence of RNA from Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex and Mycobacterium other than tuberculosis in clinical specimens. This aids in the diagnosis of active tuberculosis, differentiation from other mycobacterial infections, and guiding appropriate antimicrobial therapy.
- Test Code
- 6180
- CPT Code
- 87556
- ICD Code
- A15.0
- Price
- ₹5,780
- Sample Type
- C.S.F., Pleural fluid, Synovial fluid, Sputum, Pus, Tissue, Bronchial lavage, Urine, Endometrium, Culture cells, Biopsy, Fine needle aspirations, Ascites
- Result Time
- Reports are available on the 3rd working day. Email reports within 36 hours, phone support 24 hours.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Real Time PCR
Sample Collection
No special preparation required. However, patients must sign a consent document and provide relevant clinical history.
Method: Healthcare professional collection
Laboratory Analysis
Sample collection is performed by trained healthcare professionals using sterile techniques. The type of sample depends on the suspected site of infection.
Report Delivery
The sample is immediately transported to the laboratory. Patients can resume normal activities.
Timeline: Reports are available on the 3rd working day. Email reports within 36 hours, phone support 24 hours.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of the MTB Complex / MOTT (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test is to detect the presence of RNA from Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex and Mycobacterium other than tuberculosis in clinical specimens. This aids in the diagnosis of active tuberculosis, differentiation from other mycobacterial infections, and guiding appropriate antimicrobial therapy.
How to Prepare
- Sputum: collect early morning sample in a sterile container
- CSF/fluids: collected via lumbar puncture or aspiration under aseptic conditions
- Tissue/biopsy: collected during surgical procedure
- Urine: midstream sample in sterile container
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"Early detection of MTB and MOTT is crucial for appropriate therapy. This RNA-based test offers high sensitivity and rapid turnaround, aiding in timely clinical decisions."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Insufficient sample volume
- Sample leaking or not in sterile container
- Improper labeling
- Sample received after prolonged delay without proper storage
Understanding Your Results
Positive for Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex, indicating active TB infection. Further testing may be needed for drug susceptibility.
Positive for non-tuberculous mycobacteria, which may require different treatment. Clinical correlation is necessary.
No mycobacterial RNA detected. However, clinical suspicion should be considered, and additional tests may be required.
Consult a physician if you experience persistent cough, fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, or have been in contact with a TB patient. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.
Limitations
- ⚠Qualitative test does not provide quantitative load or drug susceptibility
- ⚠May not differentiate between viable and non-viable organisms
- ⚠Negative result does not completely rule out TB, especially in paucibacillary cases
- ⚠Requires careful handling to avoid false positives
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minimal risk of bleeding or infection at collection site
- ●Discomfort during sample collection (e.g., lumbar puncture, biopsy)
Interfering Factors
- ●Improper sample collection or storage may degrade RNA
- ●Presence of PCR inhibitors in the specimen
- ●Cross-contamination during sample processing
- ●Prior anti-tubercular therapy may reduce RNA levels
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | MTB Complex / MOTT (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test | Sputum Smear Microscopy | Culture (MGIT) | Tuberculin Skin Test (TST) | Interferon-Gamma Release Assay (IGRA) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | MTB Complex / MOTT (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test | Faster and cheaper but lower sensitivity, especially in paucibacillary disease. Cannot differentiate MTB from MOTT. | Gold standard for diagnosis and drug susceptibility, but takes weeks. RNA PCR is faster. | Indicates exposure but not active disease. False positives in BCG-vaccinated individuals. | Blood test for latent TB, not active disease. RNA PCR detects active infection. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of the MTB Complex / MOTT RNA Detection test?
What is the difference between MTB and MOTT?
How is the sample collected?
Is fasting required before the test?
How long does it take to get results?
Can this test differentiate between latent and active TB?
Is home sample collection available?
What does a positive result mean?
Can this test be used for treatment monitoring?
Are there any risks associated with the test?
Is this test covered by insurance?
What is the CPT code for this test?
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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.
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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.
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