88. Which one of the following is a nucleic acid hybridization-based test for diagnosis of Tuberculosis?
1. TrueNat
2. TORCH
3. WIDAL
4. Tubercullin test

 

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Nucleic Acid Hybridization-Based Test for Tuberculosis Diagnosis

In the diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB), various diagnostic tests are available to detect the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. One advanced approach is nucleic acid hybridization-based testing, which allows for the detection of the TB pathogen’s genetic material in clinical samples.

The Correct Answer: TrueNat

Among the options provided, TrueNat is the nucleic acid hybridization-based test for TB diagnosis.

What is TrueNat?

• TrueNat is a molecular diagnostic technique that uses nucleic acid amplification to detect the DNA of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (the causative agent of tuberculosis). This test offers several advantages, such as:

  • Rapid results

  • High sensitivity and specificity

  • Can be used in resource-limited settings

TrueNat is particularly beneficial for early diagnosis, including the detection of drug-resistant TB strains.

Other Diagnostic Tests for Tuberculosis

1. TORCH:

   • This is a group of tests used to diagnose infections during pregnancy, including Toxoplasmosis, Rubella, Cytomegalovirus, and Herpes simplex. It is not related to tuberculosis.

2. WIDAL:

   • The Widal test is used to diagnose typhoid fever caused by Salmonella typhi, not tuberculosis.

3. Tuberculin Test (Mantoux Test):

   • The Tuberculin Test is a skin test used to identify individuals who have been exposed to Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It involves the injection of purified protein derivative (PPD) and observing the skin reaction. While useful, it is not based on nucleic acid hybridization and is less definitive than molecular tests like TrueNat.

Conclusion

The correct nucleic acid hybridization-based test for tuberculosis diagnosis is TrueNat (Option 1). This method directly detects the genetic material of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and is highly effective in the early and accurate diagnosis of TB.

Correct Answer: 1. TrueNat