Tb Xdr Screen (lpa), in Visit Clinic

LPA (Line Probe Assay) is a rapid molecular test for tuberculosis that detects Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex and genetic mutations causing drug resistance—commonly rifampicin and isoniazid, with extended versions detecting second-line drug resistance. Performed on sputum or culture, it delivers results in 1–2 days to guide treatment and early multidrug-resistance identification, though culture/phenotypic tests may still be used for confirmation.

LPA in medical TB stands for Line Probe Assay. It is a molecular (PCR-based) test that detects Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex and common resistance mutations to first-line drugs (especially rifampicin and isoniazid) by hybridization to specific probes on strips. LPAs provide rapid genotypic drug-resistance results to guide timely treatment decisions.

Lp(a) is largely genetically determined and not easily changed by diet or routine meds, but it is partly treatable. Treatments that can lower levels or risk include lipoprotein apheresis, PCSK9 inhibitors (modest reductions), and emerging antisense/siRNA therapies that produce larger drops. Managing other cardiovascular risk factors (lipids, blood pressure, smoking, diabetes) remains essential—discuss testing and options with your clinician.

GeneXpert (Xpert MTB/RIF) is an automated, cartridge-based PCR that rapidly detects Mycobacterium tuberculosis and rifampicin resistance (rpoB mutations) in about 2 hours at point-of-care. Line Probe Assays (LPAs) are lab-based PCR plus hybridization tests that identify TB and specific resistance mutations to rifampicin and isoniazid (and in second-line LPAs, other drugs), offering more detailed resistance profiles but requiring more infrastructure and longer processing time.

LPA stands for Lasting Power of Attorney. It’s a legal document enabling someone (the donor) to appoint one or more trusted persons (attorneys) to make decisions on their behalf if they lose mental capacity or when they choose. There are two main types: a health and welfare LPA (medical and care decisions) and a property and financial affairs LPA (money and property matters).

A single line probe assay typically costs about US$25–75 per test for reagents and consumables; including labour, equipment amortisation and overhead the per-sample cost often rises to roughly US$50–200. Initial capital outlay for PCR and hybridisation instruments can be several thousand dollars. Prices vary by country, test type (e.g., MTBDRplus vs MTBDRsl), testing volume and procurement arrangements.