MTB Complex (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test
Short Name: MTB RNA Qualitative
Also known as: TB RNA PCR, MTB RNA Detection, Mycobacterium tuberculosis RNA Qualitative
MTB Complex (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹4,000. Uses Real Time PCR on Sputum, C.S.F., Pleural fluid, Synovial fluid, Pus, Tissue, Bronchial lavage, Urine, Endometrium, Culture cells, Biopsy, Fine needle aspirations, Ascites samples. Results in Reports are available on the 3rd working day after sample collection. Email reports are sent within 36 hours of result availability, and phone support is available 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 (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test is to aid in the diagnosis of active tuberculosis by detecting the genetic material (RNA) of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex in clinical samples. This test is particularly valuable for rapid and accurate identification of TB, especially in cases where traditional methods like sputum smear microscopy are inconclusive or negative. It helps clinicians initiate appropriate anti-tubercular therapy promptly, reducing morbidity and transmission. The test is also useful for diagnosing extrapulmonary TB using various sample types such as pleural fluid, CSF, and tissue biopsies. By providing a qualitative result (positive/negative), it supports clinical decision-making in both pulmonary and extrapulmonary TB cases.
- Test Code
- 6183
- CPT Code
- 87556
- ICD Code
- A15.0
- Price
- ₹4,000
- Sample Type
- Sputum, C.S.F., Pleural fluid, Synovial fluid, Pus, Tissue, Bronchial lavage, Urine, Endometrium, Culture cells, Biopsy, Fine needle aspirations, Ascites
- Result Time
- Reports are available on the 3rd working day after sample collection. Email reports are sent within 36 hours of result availability, and phone support is available 24 hours.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Real Time PCR
Sample Collection
No special preparation is required. However, patients must sign a consent document and provide relevant clinical history. For sputum collection, it is recommended to collect early morning sample after deep cough.
Method: Expectoration, aspiration, or biopsy as applicable
Laboratory Analysis
Sample collection is performed by trained healthcare professionals. For sputum, patients are instructed to cough deeply to produce phlegm from the lungs. For other fluids, aseptic techniques are used.
Report Delivery
The sample is immediately transported to the laboratory. Patients can resume normal activities. Results are typically available within 3 working days.
Timeline: Reports are available on the 3rd working day after sample collection. Email reports are sent within 36 hours of result availability, and phone support is available 24 hours.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of the MTB Complex (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test is to aid in the diagnosis of active tuberculosis by detecting the genetic material (RNA) of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex in clinical samples. This test is particularly valuable for rapid and accurate identification of TB, especially in cases where traditional methods like sputum smear microscopy are inconclusive or negative. It helps clinicians initiate appropriate anti-tubercular therapy promptly, reducing morbidity and transmission. The test is also useful for diagnosing extrapulmonary TB using various sample types such as pleural fluid, CSF, and tissue biopsies. By providing a qualitative result (positive/negative), it supports clinical decision-making in both pulmonary and extrapulmonary TB cases.
How to Prepare
- For sputum: collect early morning sample in a sterile wide-mouth container
- For fluids: collect in a sterile container, avoid contamination
- For tissue/biopsy: place in sterile saline or transport medium
- Label the container with patient name, date, and time of collection
- Transport to laboratory as soon as possible; if delayed, refrigerate at 2-8°C for up to 24 hours
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"Early detection of MTB RNA is crucial for timely treatment and reducing transmission. This molecular test offers high sensitivity, especially in paucibacillary samples."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Insufficient sample volume
- Sample leaking or not properly labeled
- Sample received in inappropriate container
- Sample stored at room temperature for more than 24 hours
- Sample showing signs of contamination
Understanding Your Results
Positive
MTB complex RNA detected. Active tuberculosis infection is likely. Clinical correlation and further evaluation (e.g., culture, drug susceptibility testing) are recommended. Initiate anti-tubercular therapy as per guidelines.
Negative
MTB complex RNA not detected. Active TB is less likely, but cannot be ruled out. Consider other diagnostic tests or repeat testing if clinical suspicion remains high.
Consult a physician immediately if you have symptoms suggestive of tuberculosis, such as persistent cough, fever, night sweats, weight loss, or coughing blood. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications and spread of infection.
Limitations
- ⚠Qualitative test does not differentiate between viable and non-viable organisms
- ⚠May not detect latent TB infection
- ⚠Negative result does not completely rule out TB, especially in paucibacillary samples
- ⚠Requires sophisticated laboratory infrastructure and trained personnel
- ⚠Not recommended for monitoring treatment response
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minimal risk of bleeding or infection at the collection site for invasive procedures
- ●Discomfort during sputum collection
- ●Rare risk of pneumothorax with pleural fluid aspiration (if performed)
Interfering Factors
- ●Improper sample collection or handling may lead to false negatives
- ●Inhibitors in the sample (e.g., heme, mucus) can affect PCR amplification
- ●Cross-contamination during collection or processing
- ●Prior anti-tubercular therapy may reduce RNA levels, leading to false negatives
- ●Sample storage at improper temperature may degrade RNA
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | MTB Complex (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test | Sputum Smear Microscopy | TB Culture | Interferon-Gamma Release Assay (IGRA) | CBNAAT (GeneXpert) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | MTB Complex (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test | Smear microscopy is rapid and inexpensive but has low sensitivity, especially in paucibacillary samples. MTB RNA PCR is more sensitive and specific, detecting even low levels of bacteria. | Culture is the gold standard for TB diagnosis but takes 2-6 weeks. MTB RNA PCR provides results in days, allowing earlier diagnosis and treatment initiation. | IGRA is used for latent TB infection, not active disease. MTB RNA PCR detects active infection by identifying bacterial RNA in clinical samples. | CBNAAT detects DNA and also rifampicin resistance. MTB RNA PCR detects RNA, which may indicate active transcription. Both are molecular tests with high sensitivity, but CBNAAT is more widely used for drug resistance screening. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the MTB Complex (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test?
What is the cost of the test at DNA Labs India?
What sample types are accepted for this test?
Is fasting required before the test?
How long does it take to get the results?
What does a positive result mean?
Can this test detect latent TB?
Is home sample collection available?
What is the difference between RNA and DNA detection?
Are there any risks associated with the test?
Can I take the test while on TB medication?
How should I prepare for sputum collection?
Related Tests
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.
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.