Diagnostic accuracy of smear microscopy, mycobacterial culture, and GeneXpert MTB/RIF assay for diagnosis of subclinical tuberculosis: a retrospective multicenter study

• DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.01888-24
• Publication Date: 2025-03-31T13:20:02Z
• Authors: Jin Shi; Yanhong Yu; Bo Li; Yuanyuan Shang; Cong Yao; Weicong Ren; Shanshan Li; Mengqiu Gao; Yu Pang
• Keywords: Subclinical infection; GeneXpert MTB/RIF

ABSTRACT Subclinical tuberculosis (TB) challenges public health interventions. This retrospective multicenter study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of smear microscopy, mycobacterial culture, and GeneXpert MTB/RIF assay (Xpert) for subclinical TB identify its proportion risk factors in China. Among 560 participants diagnosed with TB, 309 (55.18%) patients had active 251 (44.82%) TB. For diagnosis, Xpert detection rates 11.5%, 40.6%, respectively, which were significantly lower than those (25.2%, 59.2%, 63.7% respectively). Conversely, interferon-γ release assays (IGRA) showed similar both (85.7%) (84.1%). Age groups 40–60 years under 40 years, as well employed individuals higher risks To conclude, about 45% our study. Microbiologic tests sensitivities while IGRA positivity comparable between asymptomatic symptomatic patients, highlighting potential antigen-specific immune response diagnosis these individuals. Further clinical trials are warranted investigate flow chart IMPORTANCE poses a major challenge interventions, especially wake COVID-19 pandemic. However, substantial have absence or non-recognized symptoms, put great pressure on diagnosis. In this study, we conducted assess performance We also determine China order accelerate progress towards global milestones targets End Strategy.