The diagnosis of tuberculosis in South Africa relies on smear microscopy and culture methods. Smear microscopy allows for direct detection of acid-fast bacilli (AFB) in the specimen and makes it possible to identify the most infectious patients. Although it provides rapid results and is inexpensive, it is limited by its lack of sensitivity and specificity. Based on the inherent advantages of the LightCycler system, Roche Applied Science, South Africa has developed a LightCycler assay that overcomes these problems. The LightCycler Mycobacterium Detection Kit was thoroughly tested in extended analytical and clinical trials together with the National Health Laboratory Services (NHLS) (Pretoria and Kimberley Laboratories), South Africa, and at the University Hospital in Regensburg, Germany.
The new test offers a number of advantages over current testing methods: it enables differentiation between Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Mycobacterium avium, and Mycobacterium kansasii in a single PCR run, and provides laboratories with reliable, accurate and objective results within hours, significantly improving patient management. Replacing the AFB smear test will significantly reduce false negative results obtained by microscopy.
Use of the new test will result in fewer cultures being performed, leading to significant improvements in turnaround times for the patient. The test sequence is convenient and easy to perform; the throughput of the system suits low, medium and high throughput sample sites.
“We are proud of our contribution in the battle against tuberculosis, which is really a plague in African countries. Every patient should get exactly what he needs to be cured – this is Roche’s basic idea of Personalized Healthcare. A fast, safe test result is the backbone of this concept.” said Manfred Baier, Head of Roche Applied Science. Roche is currently evaluating which countries besides South Africa would also be suitable candidates for the test.
