Evaluation of Multiplex PCR for Rapid Diagnosis of Female Genital Tuberculosis

Background Female genital tract tuberculosis (FGTB) is a very common disease in developing countries. Rapid and specific diagnosis is of paramount importance. Purpose To evaluate Multiplex PCR using MPB 64 and IS6110 primers directed against M. tuberculosis for the diagnosis of FGTB and to compare the different methods available for diagnosis like histopathology, smear microscopy and TB culture. Materials and methods Multiplex PCR was performed on endometrial biopsy samples of 21FGTB confirmed cases, 49 clinically suspected FGTB cases and 25 Non TB (control group) patients. Results : Multiplex PCR had sensitivity of 95.23% for confirmed cases and specificity of 100% for confirmed FGTB cases. In 49 clinically diagnosed, but unconfirmed FGTB cases multiplex PCR was positive in 61.22% cases. The overall sensitivity of microscopy, culture, Histopathology and multiplex PCR were 1.42%, 8.57%, 21.42%, 72.85% and specificity was 100%, 100%, 100% and 100% respectively. Conclusion Multiplex PCR using MPB 64 and IS6110 primers has a high sensitivity and specificity in diagnosis of FGTB.