In this study 29 cases with supsected palmonary tuberculosis on clinical and radiological findings were studied microbiologicaly for detection of mycobacterium organisms. Sputa & HAL from all cases were examined by direct smear microscopy, PCR and culture on L.J medium. 8 cases were positive (27.6%) for AFB by direct smear for BAL. 14 cases (48.2%) were positive for M. ttuberculosis by PCR and 16 cases (55.2%) were positive by culture on L.J. media.The result of this study showed that PCR is a rapid sensitive, specific and expensive tool in diagnosing suspected cases of pulmonary tuberculosis. It can not be applied routinely due to sophisticated technique and some degree of false results (either positive or negative.) It can not be used to determine antituberculous drug sensitivity testing. PCR is still in its infancy and further studies should be done for better evolution before it is applied as a routine lab test |
