Analytical Optimization of GeneXpert Ultra for Detection of Tuberculosis in CSF Samples

Detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) in extrapulmonary specimens can be challenging due to their paucibacillary nature. This difficulty is especially true for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and the low sensitivity specificity diagnosis hampers rapid detection treatment vulnerable populations. GeneXpert MTB/RIF Ultra has been shown provide results MTBC associated Rifampin resistance, but there limited data regarding standardized methods CSF processing on this assay. In study, we sought guidance best processing, including optimal volumes test, length incubation with sample reagent finally effects long-term freezing detection.