Urine Pcr Test

PCR stands for Polymerase Chain Reaction, which is tested in urine during diagnosis of various diseases. The test comes handy in the diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis. Culture and specific staining, which include fluorescent and Zeil-Nelson methods, are standard measures that help in the diagnosis of tuberculosis or PTB (pulmonary tuberculosis). These are time-consuming methods and can also suffer from low-level of accuracy. Collection of samples for smear and culture also involves some invasive procedures. At times, more accurate diagnostic methods may also be required. Often, suitable samples for evaluation are not obtained which creates hassles for the treatment process.

The procedure involves collection of urine samples from patients suspected to be suffering from pulmonary tuberculosis. Around 50 mL of the collected urine sample is taken out for testing purposes. This 50 mL of urine sample is mixed with 0.5 mL of Ethylene diamene tetraacetic acid. After this combination is formed, DNA extraction and PCR testing are done on the sample. This leads to formation of a proper sample for testing whether the patient is suffering from pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB). This kind of procedure does not involve smear or any invasive technique to collect urine samples, which makes it a bit easier than other techniques for treatment.

The polymerase chain reaction test (PCR) can be used for instant diagnosis of urogenital tuberculosis (UTB) as well. This test can also help in diagnosis of pyuria, hematuria, pyelocaliceal dilatation, ureteral stricture and hydroureter too. People have also been diagnosed for autonephrectomy, severe parenchymal destruction, calcification and multiple small caliceal deformities using this test. This is a non-invasive measure that helps in instant diagnosis of a large pool of diseases that helps in quick treatment by the doctors. A high index of suspicion is necessary for diagnosis of UTB even for those who show non-specific manifestations.

Much preparation is not required for the patients. The procedure is normally non-invasive and involves collection of urine sample from the patients. This PCR test is one of the instant methods for diagnosis and screening of the tuberculosis, but cannot be relied upon as the only method of testing and treatment. The patients have to be prepared for further tests as well. Usually, 3 consecutive urine samples are collected and tested for the presence of mycobacterium tuberculosis and the results are then compared with the standard microbiological methods and radiological findings. The mean interval between the appearance of symptoms and diagnosis is recorded.