GeneXpert MTB/RIF Based Detection of Rifampicin Resistance and Common Mutations in rpoB Gene of Mycobacterium Tuberculosis in Tribal Population of District Anuppur, Madhya Pradesh, India

Abstract

Introduction: Tuberculosis (TB) caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) continues to be one of the most significant causes of death in the developing countries. Development of Multi Drug Resistance (MDR) and Extremely Drug Resistance (XDR) strains of MTB has been recognised as a major threat. Rapid diagnosis along with drug sensitivity analysis is the prerequisite for effective treatment of TB, especially in rural and remote location settings. Aim: The goal of this study was to investigate the Rifampicin Resistance (RR) using GeneXpert MTB/Rifampicin (RIF) in tribal patients suffering from Pulmonary Tuberculosis (PTB) in District Anuppur, Madhya Pradesh, India. Materials and Methods: Sputum samples were obtained from 413 patients with symptoms of PTB, who visited District Hospital, Anuppur from April 2017- April 2018. Based on clinical symptoms and chest X-ray, GeneXpert MTB/RIF assay was performed for the confirmation of TB and detection of RR. The data was analysed and expressed in percentage. Results: Out of 413 samples, 104 (25.18%) were diagnosed with PTB. Out of 104 TB positive samples, RR was detected in 7(6.73%) samples. The most common mutations conferring RR were located in the region of Probe B (71.42%), followed by Probe C (14.28%) and Probe E (14.28%), while no mutations were found in the region of Probe A and Probe D. Conclusion: Possibly, this is the first report of RR and probe mutational analysis from this tribal region of India. High rate of mutation at Probe B locus may be the chief reason for RR development. Gene sequencing may be carried for understanding the higher rates of mutations at probe B locus.