GeneXpert

1. Diagnostic test for Detecting TB and Multi Drug resistant TB
2. Cartridge based nucleic acid amplification test, automated diagnostic test that can identify Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) DNA and resistance to rifampicin (RIF) by nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT)
3. In December 2010, the World Health Organization (WHO) endorsed the Xpert MTB/RIF for use in TB endemic countries.
4. The new policy, called the Universal Drug Sensitivity Test, for TB will be using the diagnostic tool.
5. It can detect the TB bacterium as well check for resistance to rifampicin, one of the standard key TB drugs, within 90 minutes. Conventional tests take at least a day or more and require well-trained personnel for similar results.

Source: The Hindu