Mycobacterium tuberculosis Complex Genotype Identification, Isolate

What This Test Detects

The test examines an isolate of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex, the group of bacteria that cause tuberculosis, to determine its genetic pattern or genotype. It is performed on bacteria that have already been grown in culture rather than directly on a raw patient sample.

Why Genotyping Is Used

Genotyping helps identify the exact strain of tuberculosis bacteria. This is useful for recognizing clusters of related cases, linking infections that may share a source, and supporting public health tracking of how tuberculosis spreads in a community.

How the Sample Is Obtained

The laboratory uses a cultured isolate of the bacteria, meaning the organism was first grown from a specimen such as sputum or another body fluid. No additional collection from the patient is usually needed beyond the original culture specimen.

What Results Mean

Results describe the genotype or strain pattern detected in the isolate. This information is interpreted alongside clinical findings, culture results, and drug-susceptibility testing. A genotype result alone does not diagnose or rule out active tuberculosis.