Rapid molecular assay for tuberculosis: Cost and contributions

Abstract

Objective: To identify the cost of the Gene Xpert MTB/Rif® technology and analyze its contribution to the rapid diagnosis of tuberculosis. Method: Quantitative and retrospective study, carried out in the period from 2014 to 2016. Data search was performed on the Information System of Disease Notification and on the Laboratory Environment Manager. The data were analyzed based on the techniques of descriptive statistics through distribution of absolute and relative frequency. Results: 196 cases were studied, and the average time to perform the test for diagnosis of tuberculosis through Gene Xpert MTB/Rif® was two days, with a cost of 35.20R$ per test performed. Conclusion: The costs of Gene Technology Xpert MTB/Rif® are relatively higher than that of sputum smear microscopy, but have great advantages in time to release the test result and higher sensitivity and specificity offered by the rapid molecular assay.