Mycobacterium tuberculosis Complex (MTBC) RNA Detection by Qualitative Probe Assay (Serum/Plasma)
This test checks for genetic material from Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria responsible for tuberculosis (TB), in your blood or plasma. It helps identify if TB is present in your body.
["This test can help detect TB early, even before symptoms appear."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 17296-5
- Short code
- M TB Cmplx rRNA Spec Ql Probe
- Synonyms
- M TB Cmplx rRNA Spec Ql Probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Does This Test Measure?
The test detects RNA fragments from Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTBC), the bacteria that cause TB. RNA is a molecule that carries genetic information. If TB bacteria are present in your blood or plasma, their RNA will be detected by the probe used in this test. This is a qualitative test, meaning it only tells you whether TB RNA is present or not, not the exact amount.
How Is the Sample Collected?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then separated to obtain plasma, which is the liquid part containing the RNA to be tested.
Why Might This Test Be Ordered?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of TB (such as persistent cough, fever, weight loss), if you live or travel in areas with higher TB rates, or if you have a weakened immune system that puts you at higher risk for TB.
What Are Possible Results?
The test result will either be positive (indicating MTBC RNA is present) or negative (indicating MTBC RNA is not detected). A positive result suggests possible TB infection, which would require further testing and medical evaluation.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: This test is important for early detection of TB, especially in high-risk populations. It can help guide treatment decisions and prevent the spread of TB. However, a positive result does not definitively diagnose TB and should be followed by additional diagnostic tests, such as a TB skin test or culture, to confirm the diagnosis and determine the appropriate treatment.
Short name
MTBC RNA Screening
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
What does a negative result mean?
Can this test be used to monitor TB treatment?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy