Table of Content

What is the GeneXpert Ultra MTB/RIF Test? 

GeneXpert Ultra MTB/RIF Test is an advanced molecular diagnostic test that a healthcare provider suggests to detect the presence of specific genetic material, such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB), in pathogens. This bacterium causes tuberculosis (TB). The test also identifies resistance to rifampicin (RIF) in clinical samples. It is a critical first-line drug used in the treatment of TB. Hence, it is also known as the RIF test and CBNAAT, which manages multi-drug-resistant TB (MDR-TB). 

The GeneXpert Ultra MTB/RIF test is often called the CBNAAT test, which stands for Cartridge-Based Nucleic Acid Amplification Test. The GeneXpert Ultra MTB/RIF Test is based on nucleic acid amplification technology (NAAT) and is an upgraded version of the GeneXpert MTB/RIF assay, providing improved sensitivity and accuracy.

The CBNAAT test is a revolutionary diagnostic tool for checking for the presence of genetic material (DNA or RNA), particularly Mycobacterium tuberculosis (TB) bacteria. A healthcare provider combines molecular biology and automation to provide rapid, accurate, and reliable diagnostic results.

Nevertheless, the CBNAAT test can detect other infectious diseases by checking specific genetic markers.

Your healthcare provider may suggest a test when he finds symptoms suspecting TB, such as a persistent cough for over three weeks, unexplained change in weight, night sweats, or unexplained fatigue. Early detection allows for timely treatment of TB in patients. 

India has many diagnostic centers, such as Redcliffe Labs Healthy India ki Trusted Lab, which provide high-end diagnostic services to patients. These centers demonstrate four pillars: accuracy, accessibility, affordability, and awareness, thus ensuring quality diagnostics across Bharat. 

Doctors and many satisfied customers trust Redcliffe Labs. So, if you are suggested, book a CBNAAT test online from Redcliffe Labs at INR 2200 with a home sample collection. Get the most accurate CBNAAT test report within 24 hours. 

Test Details

What is the purpose of a GeneXpert Ultra MTB/RIF test?

The CBNAAT test detects the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB), which causes TB. Unlike traditional diagnostic methods such as sputum smear microscopy, the CBNAAT is more sensitive, delivers faster results, and helps the expert decide on a treatment strategy. 

Some of its purposes include: 

1. Detects Tuberculosis (TB): One primary purpose of a CBNAAT test is to diagnose TB in individuals with symptomatic symptoms. It identifies the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) in clinical samples such as sputum, lymph node aspirates, or other fluids. 
2. Rapid diagnostic testing: Another reason a doctor considers a CBNAAT test is that it provides results much faster than traditional methods, which may take a week. This rapid turnaround time makes it an ideal option for treatment initiation. 
3. Detection of Rifampicin Resistance: In addition to TB, the test also supports detecting mutations with resistance to rifampicin, a first-line drug used to treat TB. Further, this test capacity makes it a valuable tool for diagnosing multi-drug-resistant TB (MDR-TB). 
4. Detecting other infections: Depending on the cartridge used, the CBNAAT test also helps detect bacterial and viral pathogens. For instance, SARS-CoV-2 is responsible for COVID-19. 
5. Screening in high-risk individuals: The test is often performed in high-risk individuals such as people with HIV. In such cases, it is more challenging to diagnose TB due to immunosuppression. 
6. Monitors Treatment Response: In addition to detecting the presence of MTB, rifampicin resistance, and other infections and screening high-risk individuals, the test also monitors the efficacy of the medicine prescribed for TB and the response to make modifications if needed. 

Other purposes when a doctor may prompt for a CBNAAT test 

Apart from the primary purposes mentioned above when a doctor is likely to suggest a RIF test, below are other reasons when a healthcare professional may opt for the same: 

• Detecting oncogenic mutations: A healthcare professional may also suggest a CBNAAT test to detect oncogenic mutations and cancer markers, including lung cancer. This heterogeneous disease is characterized by nucleic acid amplification, which can reveal specific genetic abnormalities. 
• Public health research: Researchers also use CBNAATs to understand the prevalence of certain pathogens and their genetic variations in populations. 

No matter the reason, if your healthcare provider has suggested a CBNAAT test, get yourself tested as soon as possible. 

What does the GeneXpert Ultra MTB/RIF test detect?

The CBNAAT test stands for Cartridge-Based Nucleic Acid Amplification Test. It follows the principles of real-time PCR (polymerase chain reaction). The World Health Organization (WHO) also recommends the CBNAAT test for the initial diagnosis of TB, especially where the resources are limited, still providing accurate and fast results for treatment decisions. 

1. Detects the presence of Mycobacterium Tuberculosis (MTB): The test's primary use is to detect MTB bacilli in sputum samples. It also identifies the resistance to rifampicin, a multidrug-resistant TB indicator. Other samples, such as pleural fluid, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), or gastric aspirates, can be used for extrapulmonary TB cases.

The test uses automated cartridges, which makes it rapid and more accurate, giving it a competitive advantage over conventional diagnostic methods.

2. Detects other bacterial or viral infections: Besides detecting MTB and resistance to rifampicin, the CBNAAT test is being explored for detecting other bacterial or viral infections, such as COVID-19 or sexually transmitted diseases like HIV. 

3. Diagnosis of TB in symptomatic individuals: The test is especially helpful in diagnosing TB in symptomatic individuals, where producing sufficient sputum is challenging for traditional microscopy.

How can you prepare for the GeneXpert Ultra MTB/RIF test?

No special preparations are required for the Genexpert Ultra MTB/RIF or CB NAAT tests. Kindly follow the guidelines given by your healthcare provider to get accurate results, including: 

• It is important to give a sample with neat and clean hands. Ensure you wash them with soap and water. 
• Gargling with salt water may also help eliminate the virus or bacteria from the mouth and clear the throat. 
• No fasting is required for a CBNAAT test. Giving the sample in the morning, which reflects accumulation over 8 hours, ensures accurate results. 
• You should also avoid drinking and smoking before the test to prevent interference with the results. 
• Lastly, if you are taking medicines for heart, sugar, or any ailment, kindly inform your doctor before the test and follow what is needed. 

Note: Do not hesitate to discuss your doubts or queries with your healthcare provider. Follow all instructions to ensure accurate results. 

What is the procedure for the GeneXpert Ultra MTB/RIF test?

The best thing about the CBNAAT test’s procedure is that it is painless and can be done quickly. Here is what you can expect: 

• The expert/phlebotomist will hand over a sputum collection container and ask you to take deep breaths and cough deeply. 
• He will ask you to spit into the container until you reach a marker point or line. Then, close the lid tightly. 
• Again, wash your hands before handing the collected sample to the phlebotomist.
• Lastly, he will label the container with your name and other details and submit it to the lab for analysis. 

What do the GeneXpert Ultra MTB/RIF test reports indicate?

The CB NAAT (Cartridge-Based Nucleic Acid Amplification Test) is a rapid molecular test that primarily detects Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) and rifampicin resistance. Look below to find out what the CBNAAT test report indicates: 

1. Presence or absence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB): The test report can indicate the presence of MTB genetic material, confirming TB infection. Additionally, a positive result with rifampicin resistance requires further testing to confirm MDR-TB and determine appropriate treatment. 

If the MTB DNA is not detected, the tuberculosis infection is absent. Additional testing may be required if you are an asymptomatic individual with negative results. This may include sputum culture or imaging to confirm TB or other conditions. 

2. Rifampicin Resistance: The CBNAAT test also determines whether the TB strain is rifampicin resistant. 
3. Quantification of Bacterial Load: Sometimes, the CBNAAT test indicates whether the bacterial load is high, medium, low, or very low. 

Note: Show your CBNAAT test report to your healthcare professional to understand your specific test results. 

What if the GeneXpert Ultra MTB/RIF test reports are positive?

The CBNAAT test is a cartridge-based nucleic acid amplification test that confirms TB bacilli's presence and shows resistance to rifampicin. There is no normal range for the CBNAAT test. If you test positive for the CBNAAT test, it indicates the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, causing TB. Here is what you need to do next: 

• Confirm the diagnosis: If your CBNAAT test results are positive, it confirms TB in the tested sputum sample. Additionally, your report may also clarify whether the bacteria are rifampicin-resistant or rifampicin-sensitive. 
• Meet a specialist: Discuss your reports with the specialist. He will evaluate your test results and symptoms and may suggest additional testing, such as a chest X-ray or CT scan. 
• Treatment initiation: Once the TB is confirmed, you need not delay and begin anti-tuberculosis treatment (ATT) as quickly as possible. A specialist may suggest antibiotics and other medicines for over 6-9 months or more. 
• Proper monitoring is needed. Regular follow-ups should be ensured to monitor the effectiveness of treatment and detect potential side effects. 
• Testing for family members is important: If you are tested positive for TB, your family members and close friends may also need to undergo a test for TB to rule out existing TB. 
• Infection control: TB is a contagious disease. Below are some tips to help you prevent spreading it to others: 

1. Make sure you cover your mouth while coughing or sneezing. 
2. Wear a mask in public. 
3. Don’t go in a crowd or areas with poor ventilation.
4. Isolate yourself if needed. 

• Stay informed: Following your treatment plan and taking doses on time is essential to prevent complications or treatment failure. 

Who should take the GeneXpert Ultra MTB/RIF test?

The GeneXpert Ultra MTB Test, RIF test, or CBNAAT test is a valuable diagnostic test with fast and accurate results. It is ideal for specific groups of people who need rapid diagnosis and resistance to rifampicin testing. 

 Those who should take the test include: 

1. Individuals with TB symptoms: The test is recommended for people suggestive of TB symptoms such as: 

• Persistent cough for three weeks or more. 
• Chest pain or difficulty breathing
• low-grade and prolonged fever
• Unexplained weight loss
• Night sweats

2. High-risk groups: Another category of people for whom the test is crucial includes: 

• HIV-positive individuals: Early diagnosis is important for people with HIV as they are at greater risk of dying. 
• Exposure to someone with active TB: Coming into contact with someone who has an active TB infection also puts you at risk. Hence, early diagnosis can help make informed decisions about your health. 
• Immunocompromised people: The GeneXpert Ultra MTB Test, or RIF test, is also recommended for people with compromised immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or with autoimmune conditions. 
• Patients with chronic illness: Besides all the above reasons, if you are suffering from a chronic ailment such as diabetes, it increases the risk of TB. 

3. Suspected drug-resistant TB cases: 

People who are already treated for TB have a higher likelihood of drug resistance. Additionally, those residing in or coming from areas with the highest MDR rates, such as Eastern Europe and Central Asia, should get themselves tested. 

4. Patients in healthcare settings: 

Healthcare workers, people exposed to TB patients, or poor living conditions and overcrowding can increase the TB risk. 

5. Children with TB symptoms: 

Children with TB symptoms or those who are confirmed in contact with TB patients should get tested without delay. 

The GeneXpert Ultra MTB/RIF/CBNAAT tests are more sensitive than older tests, especially in detecting TB in smear-negative or extrapulmonary cases. If you suspect TB or belong to any of these high-risk groups, meet your healthcare provider to get advice on whether the CBNAAT test is appropriate for you. 

What are the benefits of the GeneXpert Ultra MTB/RIF test?

The GeneXpert Ultra MTB/RIF test combines speed and accuracy, helping to improve TB diagnosis and management. 

The test is a cutting-edge diagnostic tool for detecting tuberculosis (TB) and resistance to rifampicin. Its key benefits are as follows: 

• The test is more sensitive than previous versions, making it more effective in identifying TB, even in people with low bacterial loads. 
• The test also helps identify minimal symptoms in patients with extrapulmonary TB. 
• Conventional culture methods will likely take a week to provide results, whereas the RIF tests, if booked by Redcliffe Labs, deliver results in 24 hours. 
• The test also identifies rifampicin resistance, a marker for multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB). This information can help clinicians choose the appropriate treatment. 
• The CBNAAT test is a fully automated test that reduces the chances of errors. 
• The test is also approved for the use of kids who may present with atypical or paucibacillary TB.

Are there any risks associated with the GeneXpert Ultra MTB/RIF test?

The GeneXpert Ultra MTB/RIF test is painless and considered safe. To avoid discrepancies in the test results, it is advisable to administer it with clean hands and rinse your mouth with salt water. 

• Discomfort: A dry cough may make it challenging to produce a sputum sample. Additionally, too much coughing during the sputum sample collection could cause pain or irritation in your throat. 
• False positive or false negative result: The test might show a false positive report due to cross-contamination during sample handling, which happens rarely. On the other hand, you are likely to receive a false negative result due to the low bacterial load in your sample. 

Discuss your doubts or concerns with a doctor to receive the most accurate diagnosis. 

What common symptoms relate to the GeneXpert Ultra MTB/RIF test?

Common symptoms associated with the CBNAAT test:

1. Pulmonary TB symptoms mainly affect the lungs and may include a prolonged cough lasting two weeks or more, chest pain, coughing up blood (hemoptysis), or shortness of breath. 
2. Systemic TB symptoms are general and can affect the whole body. They may include fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, or persistent fatigue. 
3. Extrapulmonary TB symptoms usually develop outside the lungs, resulting in swelling of lymph nodes, especially in the neck, joint pain, swelling, abdominal pain, diarrhea, or severe headaches. 
4. Drug-resistant TB symptoms: These symptoms still persist despite TB treatment. 

CBNAAT Test Cost with Redcliffe Labs

TB is one such disease that needs to be addressed in time before it damages one's health. Early diagnosis is vital to confirm whether the TB infection is present and work on the responsible conditions. 

So, depending on your existing symptoms, if your healthcare provider suggests a GeneXpert Ultra MTB/RIF Test, also known as the CBNAAT test, don't delay. Book it today with Redcliffe Labs. The BNAATT Test Price with Redcliffe Labs is just Rs 2200. 

Remember, Redcliffe Labs is more than a lab; it is committed to serving you with empathy, precision, and unwavering support. You can schedule the test online and take it comfortably from home. 

CBNAAT Test Price in Different Cities

Note: We also offer CBNAAT Test PAN India. Please call the number 8988988787 to check the availability of our services in your area.

Step-by-step information on booking a test online from Redcliffe Labs. 

1. Visit the official Redcliffe Labs website: https://redcliffelabs.com/.
2. Browse or search for the specific test you need. 
3. Add the test to the cart. 
4. Complete the payment process online.

Note: You will receive confirmation through SMS and WhatsApp.