The limitations of polymerase chain reaction in the setting of possible recurrent tuberculosis: 2 instructional cases.
The interpretation of a positive result for Mycobacterium tuberculosis by nucleic acid amplification such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) can be challenging. We present 2 cases that illustrate the limitations of tuberculosis PCR on respiratory secretions in previously treated patients, even years after the previous disease episode.
Schulz
Thomas R
TR
Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Victoria, Australia. thomas.schulz@mh.org.au
Street
Alan C
AC
McBryde
Emma S
ES
D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000995:Antitubercular Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001431:Bacteriological Techniques / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D009169:Mycobacterium tuberculosis / Q000145:classification* / Q000235:genetics / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D016133:Polymerase Chain Reaction / Q000379:methods*; D012008:Recurrence; D014376:Tuberculosis / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000382:microbiology*
D000995:Antitubercular Agents