Accuracy of the Xpert MTB/RIF assay compared to the “gold standard” AFB culture in the diagnosis of tuberculosis in children in India

Abstract

93.2% and 91.5%. The QFT had 58.3% sensitivity and 95.3% specificity in diagnosing children with latent TB. The commonest discordant results were TST + / QFT-in 15 of 141 children without TB, not unexpected in this BCG-vaccinated population. Conclusion:The QFT performed better than the TST in the diagnosis of tuberculosis. Although only moderately sensitive, they were highly specific in ruling out TB and showed good concordance in TB-negative children. Although a case may be made for using both tests in BCG-vaccinated children, the higher costs and technical expertise required for the QFT do not support its use instead of the cheaper and simpler TST in India.