Evaluation of Xpert MTB/RIF Assay on Stool Samples for the Diagnosis of Pulmonary Tuberculosis among the Pediatric Population

Abstract Objective Microbiological confirmation of tuberculosis (TB) in pediatric cases is challenging due to its paucibacillary nature and difficulty specimen collection. This study aimed validate stool as an alternative sample for the diagnosis pulmonary TB via Xpert MTB/RIF (Xpert) assay. Materials Methods cross-sectional included 75 patients up 10 years age with signs symptoms suggestive TB. From each recruited patient, samples were collected a sterile container. The subjected Ziehl-Neelsen staining, BACTEC MGIT 960 culture (MGIT), Xpert, in-house multiplex polymerase chain reaction diagnosis. Results About 13.33% (10/75) and, them, 50% (5/75) positive by sensitivity specificity assay 50 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 18.71–81.29%) 100% CI: 94.48–100%), respectively. Conclusion on showed limited good Therefore, it can be proposed screening diagnose which getting respiratory extremely difficult. However, further studies greater number multiple baseline variables are required support our findings. Strategies optimize should performed enhance this method detect Mycobacterium children.