TB Expert MTB/RIF (Gene Expert) (Pulmonary)
How to prepare
You can eat and drink normally before the test.
No special preparation needed.
Tell our phlebotomist about any medicines you take. Don't stop them without asking your doctor.
Wear a loose sleeve so the sample can be taken easily from your arm.
How it works
About this test
Gene Xpert (CBNAAT) is a rapid molecular test that detects TB germs and also tells if they are resistant to rifampicin, a key TB medicine. Results come within a few hours.
Why is this test done?
- Quickly confirm lung TB
- Detect rifampicin-resistant TB
- Test sputum when smear is negative
Symptoms — when should you get tested?
- Cough for more than 2 weeks
- Fever and night sweats
- Weight loss
- Coughing up blood
Normal range
Reference ranges differ slightly between labs, methods, age and sex. Always discuss your report with your doctor.
If your result is high
MTB detected means TB is present. If rifampicin resistance is detected, treatment for drug-resistant TB is needed.
Common reasons- Pulmonary tuberculosis
- Rifampicin-resistant or multidrug-resistant TB
How is the test done?
- 1Book online
Choose your slot for home collection or a visit to our centre.
- 2Blood sample taken
A trained phlebotomist takes a small blood sample from a vein in your arm with a sealed, single-use needle. It takes about 2 minutes.
- 3Tested in our lab
Your barcoded sample is tested on automated machines with strict quality checks.
- 4Report on WhatsApp
A pathologist checks the result and the report reaches you on WhatsApp and email.
Frequently asked questions
Usually an early morning sputum sample.
No fasting is needed for this test. You can eat and drink normally.
Your report is usually ready in 2-3 days after the sample reaches our lab. We send it on WhatsApp and email, and you can also download it from the Reports page.
Please call our team to confirm whether home sample collection is available for your location and test.
This test needs a blood sample. No special preparation needed.