MTB in a TB test stands for Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria that causes tuberculosis.
In tests like the Xpert MTB/RIF assay, the test specifically looks for the DNA of Mycobacterium tuberculosis to confirm the presence of the infection. This is important for diagnosing TB and determining the appropriate treatment. The Xpert MTB/RIF test also checks for resistance to rifampicin (RIF), a key antibiotic used to treat TB. This helps doctors choose the most effective drugs for each patient.
