Automated Real-time DNA Amplification Test for Rapid and Simultaneous Detection of TB and Rifampicin Resistance: Xpert MTB/RIF Assay

The first pillar of the WHO End TB strategy calls for early and rapid diagnosis of TB, universal drug susceptibility testing (DST), systematic screening of contacts and high-risk groups, and treatment of all people with TB, including drug-resistant and HIV-associated TB. Xpert MTB/RIF assay is the only WHO-recommended diagnostic test that simultaneously detects TB and rifampicin resistance (a good proxy for MDR-TB) and is suitable for use at lower levels of the health system.

The Xpert MTB/RIF assay is an automated, cartridge-based nucleic acid amplification test that uses the multi-disease GeneXpert platform.