AFB-Xpert Panel By Gene Expert

GeneXpert is a cartridge-based molecular PCR platform that provides rapid results within hours and detects pathogen DNA/RNA and specific resistance genes. Common uses include diagnosis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and rifampicin resistance (Xpert MTB/RIF), SARS-CoV-2, influenza and RSV, and targeted assays for pathogens such as Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, MRSA, and Clostridioides difficile, depending on the cartridge used.

The GeneXpert (Xpert MTB/RIF) cartridge is available under concessional pricing at roughly $10 per test for eligible public programs; instrument modules cost several thousand dollars. Including consumables, labor and overhead, programmatic per-test costs commonly range $20–$50. In private labs and high-income settings the billed price varies widely, from about $25 up to $200+ depending on country and facility.

GeneXpert is a molecular PCR test that detects Mycobacterium tuberculosis DNA and rifampicin resistance rapidly with high sensitivity, even in low-burden samples. AFB refers to acid-fast bacilli smear microscopy (Ziehl–Neelsen/Auramine), which visually detects mycobacteria in sputum, is quicker and cheaper but less sensitive, cannot identify species or drug resistance, and requires higher bacillary loads.

GeneXpert (Xpert MTB/RIF) is a rapid, highly specific molecular test that can confirm pulmonary TB and detect rifampicin resistance, and is recommended as a first-line diagnostic. However, sensitivity is lower in smear-negative and some extrapulmonary cases, so a negative result does not definitively exclude TB. Culture remains the gold standard and further testing or clinical judgment may be needed when suspicion persists.

A positive AFB smear indicates acid‑fast bacteria in the specimen, suggesting possible active mycobacterial infection (commonly tuberculosis). It prompts urgent follow‑up: confirmatory testing with culture and molecular assays, chest imaging, clinical evaluation, and public‑health measures (isolation and contact tracing). If TB is confirmed, treatment is started and drug‑susceptibility testing guides therapy, following specialist and public‑health guidance.

Yes. Tuberculosis is usually curable with a full course of appropriate antibiotics under medical supervision. Drug-susceptible TB is treated with a multi-drug regimen for typically six months; strict adherence prevents relapse and resistance. Drug-resistant TB requires longer, tailored treatment with second-line drugs and specialist care and can still often be cured. Early diagnosis, supervised therapy, and follow-up are essential.