Performance of Xpert MTB/RIF among tuberculosis outpatients in Lilongwe, Malawi.

Background: Xpert MTB/RIF is a molecular test for the detection of and rifampicin resistance. It is considered to be a great advance over smear microscopy and culture. However, there is very little information regarding the performance characteristics of Xpert MTB/RIF in Malawi.

Objective: We aimed to evaluate the performance of Xpert MTB/RIF in a Malawian setting.

Methods: Stored sputum pellets were processed on Xpert MTB/RIF between June 2012 and May 2014. Results were compared to mycobacteria growth indicator tube and Löwenstein-Jensen cultures, LED fluorescent microscopy and GenoType MTBDR assay. Rifampicin resistance was confirmed by DNA sequencing.

Results: Of the 348 specimens with valid Xpert MTB/RIF results, 129/348 (37%) were smear-positive and 198/348 (57%) were culture-positive. Xpert MTB/RIF demonstrated a sensitivity of 93.8% (95% CI 89.4% - 96.8%) and specificity of 97.4% (95% CI 93.5% - 99.3%), with a positive predictive value of 97.8% (95% CI 94.6% - 99.4%) and a negative predictive value of 92.6% (95% CI 87.4% - 96.1%). Xpert MTB/RIF correctly identified 185/186 (99.5%) rifampicin-sensitive and 2/2 (100%) rifampicin-resistant strains. Mutations were not detected by sequencing in one isolate which was rifampicin resistant on Xpert MTB/RIF but sensitive on MTBDR. Four non-tuberculous mycobacteria grew from four smear-negative specimens, namely, ( = 1) and ( = 3). No cross-reactivity was observed with any of the non-tuberculous mycobacteria when using Xpert MTB/RIF.

Conclusion: When fully implemented, Xpert MTB/RIF may have an impact on patient care in Malawi. The increased diagnostic yield of Xpert MTB/RIF over smear microscopy can increase laboratory-confirmed tuberculosis detection and ensure that treatment is given to appropriate individuals or groups.