Confirming Mycobacterium tuberculosis transmission from a cadaver to an embalmer using molecular epidemiology.

Genotyping results and epidemiologic investigation were used to confirm tuberculosis transmission from a cadaver to an embalmer. This investigation highlights the utility of genotyping in identifying unsuspected epidemiologic links and unusual transmission settings. In addition, the investigation provides additional evidence for the occupational risk of tuberculosis among funeral service workers and indicates a need for education about tuberculosis risk and the importance of adhering to appropriate infection control measures among funeral service workers.

Sputum induction problems identified through genetic fingerprinting.

Objective: To identify the contamination source of a cluster of eight positive Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates from one laboratory session.

Methods: Spoligotyping was performed on M. tuberculosis isolates processed during one laboratory session.