Identification Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex using an immunochromatographic test Running title: A useful test for M. tuberculosis identification

摘要

Purpose of the study: In order to identify Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex from liquid and solid colonies, was used both phenotypic methods and SD Bioline Ag MPT64 Rapid test. Methods: We have tested 47 cultures identified in the Microbiology Laboratory between November and December 2009. All cases were selected from Microbiology Laboratory, of the Clinic of Pulmonary Disease, Iasi, Romania. The tests were performed according to the producer’s recommendation. Results: The test sensitivity and specificity was determined using 47 strains. The mean of the ages of the study group was 51 years. The Immunochromatographic Rapid Test was positive in 57.4% of cultures tested. All positive tests were identified M. tuberculosis based on the phenotypic features. From negative tests, 70% were M. non-tuberculosis, since 30% were classified as M. tuberculosis. Conclusion: The test showed good qualities and advantages compared with classical methods for identification of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex. For lack of some performance and expensive systems, this rapid and inexpensive method for mycobateria identification could be a real usefil tool.