Name of the Procedure:

Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); Mycobacteria species, amplified probe technique.

• Common Names: Nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) for Mycobacteria, Mycobacteria DNA/RNA test
• Medical Term: Mycobacteria NAAT

Summary

This procedure involves detecting the presence of Mycobacteria, a type of bacteria that can cause diseases such as tuberculosis, by using a specialized technique that amplifies the bacteria’s DNA or RNA. This helps quickly and accurately identify the bacterial infection.

Purpose

The main purpose of this test is to diagnose infections caused by Mycobacteria promptly and accurately. By confirming the presence of these bacteria, healthcare providers can start appropriate treatment early, potentially reducing the severity and spread of the infection.

Indications

• Symptoms of tuberculosis (e.g., persistent cough, weight loss, night sweats)
• Suspected Mycobacteria infection based on clinical examination or imaging
• Immunocompromised patients showing symptoms of Mycobacterial infections

Preparation

• Generally, no specific preparation like fasting is required.
• Patients may be asked to provide a sputum sample in a sterile container.
• Informing the healthcare provider about current medications and medical history is necessary.

Procedure Description

1. A sample (such as sputum, tissue, or other body fluids) is collected from the patient.
2. The sample is treated to extract the DNA or RNA of the Mycobacteria.
3. An amplification process is used, where specific segments of the bacterial DNA or RNA are copied multiple times.
4. A probe, which is a small piece of DNA or RNA that binds specifically to Mycobacteria DNA/RNA, is then used to detect the bacteria.
5. The presence of the bacteria is confirmed if the probe binds to the amplified genetic material.

Tools and equipment include:

• Collection containers
• Lab equipment for DNA/RNA extraction and amplification
• Probes for detecting Mycobacteria genetic material

No anesthesia or sedation is required.

Duration

The actual sample collection takes a few minutes. The laboratory analysis process can take several hours to a couple of days.

Setting

• Outpatient clinic
• Hospital laboratory

Personnel

• Trained healthcare provider or nurse for sample collection
• Medical laboratory technician or microbiologist for sample processing

Risks and Complications

• Minimal risks are associated with the sample collection, such as minor discomfort or coughing when providing a sputum sample.
• False positives or negatives can occur, requiring follow-up tests for confirmation.

Benefits

• Rapid and accurate diagnosis of Mycobacteria infections.
• Quick initiation of appropriate treatment leads to better patient outcomes.

Recovery

• No recovery time is needed from the sample collection.
• Follow-up based on results to discuss next steps in treatment or additional tests.

Alternatives

• Traditional culture methods, which are more time-consuming (several weeks).
• X-ray or CT scan for suspected tuberculosis, less specific for Mycobacteria identification.
• Pros: NAAT provides faster results.
• Cons: Slightly higher costs compared to some traditional methods.

Patient Experience

• Sample collection might be slightly uncomfortable, especially when providing sputum.
• Patients generally feel normal immediately after the sample collection.
• Pain management is typically not necessary, as the procedure is minimally invasive.