Journal article
Proportions of Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra 'trace' results vary widely among different populations with presumptive TB.
K Chani, MA Athallah, S Colquhoun, T Tsheten, GK Huang, J Chirenda, R Moke, F Charles, SM Graham
International Journal of Tuberculosis and Lung Disease | International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease | Published : 2025
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Microbiological confirmation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) with Xpert® MTB/RIF Ultra is recommended, but the interpretation of a 'trace' result is uncertain. We aimed to determine the proportion of Xpert Ultra-positive results reported as 'trace' and how the 'trace' result informed patient care. METHODS: We searched MEDLINE OVID, EMBASE, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. All studies until September 2023 that reported Xpert Ultra 'trace' and non-trace MTB-positive results were included for analysis. The Joanna Briggs Institute tool evaluated methodological quality.View full abstract