Mycobacterium Tuberculosis rRNA Detection TMA Test
Short Name: MTB rRNA TMA
Also known as: TB rRNA TMA, MTB rRNA Detection TMA, Mycobacterium tuberculosis rRNA Detection
Mycobacterium Tuberculosis rRNA Detection TMA Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹4,000. Uses Transcription Mediated Amplification (TMA), Hybridization Protection Assay (HPA) on First morning sputum, body fluid/aspirate, CSF, fresh tissue biopsy, whole blood, menstrual blood, or culture isolates samples. Results in Sample accepted Mon/Wed/Fri by 11 am; reports delivered Tue/Thu/Sat.. 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 this test is to rapidly detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis rRNA in clinical specimens and support diagnosis of tuberculosis, especially when smear microscopy may be negative or when a faster molecular result is needed.
- Test Code
- 3512
- Price
- ₹4,000
- Sample Type
- First morning sputum, body fluid/aspirate, CSF, fresh tissue biopsy, whole blood, menstrual blood, or culture isolates
- Result Time
- Sample accepted Mon/Wed/Fri by 11 am; reports delivered Tue/Thu/Sat.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Transcription Mediated Amplification (TMA), Hybridization Protection Assay (HPA)
Sample Collection
No special preparation or fasting is required. Inform the laboratory about any current anti-tuberculosis or antibiotic therapy.
Method: Home sample collection or walk-in sample collection
Laboratory Analysis
For sputum, collect first morning sample in a sterile container; for blood, 10 mL in three lavender-top EDTA tubes; for CSF or body fluids, use sterile screw-capped containers.
Report Delivery
Refrigerate or freeze samples as applicable and arrange prompt transport to the laboratory.
Timeline: Sample accepted Mon/Wed/Fri by 11 am; reports delivered Tue/Thu/Sat.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of this test is to rapidly detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis rRNA in clinical specimens and support diagnosis of tuberculosis, especially when smear microscopy may be negative or when a faster molecular result is needed.
How to Prepare
- Collect first morning sputum on three consecutive days if advised
- Use sterile screw-capped containers for sputum, CSF, aspirates, menstrual blood, or culture isolates
- For whole blood, collect 10 mL (minimum 5 mL) in three lavender-top EDTA tubes
- Transport specimens refrigerated or frozen as per sample type
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"TMA-based rRNA detection offers a rapid and sensitive method to detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis directly from clinical specimens. It is especially useful when smear microscopy is negative and early treatment decisions are needed. However, culture and drug susceptibility testing remain essential for complete TB management."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Leaking or incorrectly labeled containers
- Insufficient sample volume
- Grossly hemolyzed or clotted blood specimens
- Specimens transported at inappropriate temperature for longer than recommended
Understanding Your Results
Detected
Mycobacterium tuberculosis rRNA was detected; active or recent TB infection may be present. Correlate clinically and consider culture.
Not Detected
Mycobacterium tuberculosis rRNA was not detected in the sample; this does not completely rule out TB if suspicion remains high.
Invalid
The test could not be interpreted due to sample or assay failure; repeat testing may be required.
Consult a physician or infectious disease specialist if the result is positive, or if TB symptoms persist despite a negative result, or if you have hemoptysis, high fever, breathing difficulty, or significant weight loss.
Limitations
- ⚠Does not replace culture and drug susceptibility testing
- ⚠A negative result does not entirely exclude tuberculosis if clinical suspicion remains high
- ⚠Cannot provide information about rifampicin or other drug resistance
Risks & Considerations
- ●Blood collection may cause slight pain or bruising; sputum collection may trigger cough; no serious risks are expected for most patients.
Interfering Factors
- ●Improper sample collection, transport delays, or freeze-thaw cycles may affect rRNA integrity
- ●Recent anti-tuberculosis therapy may reduce bacterial load and could affect detection
- ●Grossly contaminated or blood-mixed samples may require repeat collection
Compare With Similar Tests
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