Quick answer
The TB PCR Test costs ₹2,000 at Live Line Health Care. A molecular test that finds the DNA of TB bacteria in sputum. No fasting is needed. It uses a sputum sample and the report is usually ready within 24–48 hours. Book home sample collection or visit any of our 45 centres.
Also known as: MTB PCR, Mycobacterium Tuberculosis PCR, TB DNA PCR, Tuberculosis PCR, TB Molecular Test, MTB DNA
What is the TB PCR Test?
The TB PCR test finds the genetic material (DNA) of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the germ that causes TB, in a sputum sample. PCR copies tiny amounts of DNA many times over until they can be detected, so it can find TB even when too few bacteria are present to be seen on a slide. Results also come far sooner than a conventional TB culture, which can take several weeks to grow.
This test answers a different question from the other TB tests. Sputum AFB is a smear that looks for bacteria by eye and can miss small numbers. TB Gold and Mantoux show only that the immune system has met TB, and cannot confirm active disease. TB PCR looks for the germ itself, so a detected result in someone with symptoms strongly supports active TB. It is not a check for cure, because DNA from dead bacteria can linger after treatment. If you also need drug resistance reported, ask your doctor, since not every PCR method includes it.
What it measures: DNA of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in a sputum sample, reported as Detected or Not detected.
Parameters included (1)
- Mycobacterium tuberculosis DNA: Detected or Not Detected
Why is this test done?
- Cough for more than 2 weeks, when lung TB is suspected
- A negative sputum smear when symptoms or a chest X-ray still suggest TB
- People with low immunity, including those living with HIV, in whom smears are more often negative
- New symptoms after close contact with a person who has TB
- Telling TB apart from other mycobacteria when a smear shows AFB
When should you get tested?
- A cough that has lasted more than 2 weeks
- Coughing up blood-stained sputum
- Evening fever and drenching night sweats
- Weight loss and tiredness
- Chest pain on breathing, or breathlessness
How to prepare for the TB PCR Test
- 1No fasting is needed. Morning sputum is usually best, collected before food or brushing, after rinsing your mouth with plain water.
- 2Take a deep breath, cough hard from the chest and spit into the sterile container. Thick phlegm is needed, not saliva.
- 3Collect the sample in open air or away from other people, then close the lid tightly.
- 4Tell the staff if you have already started TB medicines, as these can affect how the result is read.
TB PCR Test normal range
| Parameter | Typical reference range |
|---|---|
| Expected result | M. tuberculosis DNA not detected |
| Detected | TB DNA found in the sample, which supports TB in a person with symptoms |
| Invalid | The test could not be read, and a fresh sample may be requested |
This test reports whether TB DNA was found, so there is no numeric normal range. “Not detected” does not fully rule out TB. Ranges are typical adult values and vary between labs, age and sex. Always use the range printed on your report and discuss results with your doctor.
Understanding your results
- A detected result with symptoms strongly supports TB. See a doctor promptly, because TB is curable with a full course of treatment.
- A not detected result can happen with a low bacterial count, a saliva-only sample, or TB outside the lungs. Your doctor may ask for a repeat sample, an X-ray or a culture.
- Detected after past TB treatment may reflect leftover DNA from dead bacteria, so your doctor will read it along with symptoms and other tests.
- TB testing and medicines are available free under India’s National TB Elimination Programme, and doctors must notify TB cases, which also connects patients to that support.
- Coughing up a large amount of blood or severe breathlessness is an emergency. Go to a hospital immediately.
TB PCR Test – FAQs
What is the price of the TB PCR Test?
The TB PCR Test costs ₹2,000 at Live Line Health Care, at all 45 centres and for home sample collection.
Is TB PCR better than sputum AFB?
TB PCR is more sensitive and can find TB when a smear is negative. It also identifies TB specifically, while AFB can see related germs too. The AFB smear remains useful because it is simple and helps doctors follow treatment.
Is the TB PCR test the same as CBNAAT?
Both are molecular tests that find TB DNA. CBNAAT is a specific automated cartridge test that also checks for rifampicin resistance. If your doctor has asked for CBNAAT or drug resistance by name, confirm this with the team before you book.
What does MTB detected mean on a report?
MTB stands for Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Detected means TB DNA was found in your sample. In someone with symptoms, this strongly supports TB. Take the report to a doctor promptly, and do not start or stop any medicine by yourself.
Can TB PCR be negative if I have TB?
Yes. If the sample has few bacteria or contains mostly saliva, PCR can miss TB. TB outside the lungs may also not appear in sputum. If symptoms continue, your doctor may repeat the test or look for TB in other ways.
Does TB PCR show whether my TB is cured?
No. The test can detect DNA from dead bacteria, so it can stay positive after successful treatment. Doctors follow recovery through symptoms, smears, cultures and X-rays. Please keep taking your TB medicines for the full course your doctor prescribes.
What if I cannot cough up any sputum?
Tell your doctor, because saliva gives poor results. Drinking warm water and breathing deeply may help you bring up phlegm in the morning. If that fails, doctors can collect a sample in other ways at a hospital, such as induced sputum.
Where can I get the TB PCR Test done?
At any of our 45 Live Line Health Care centres in 40 cities across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, including Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam, Warangal, Kakinada and Nellore, or book home sample collection.
Medical disclaimer: This information is for general awareness only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a qualified doctor to interpret your results and before starting or changing any treatment.