Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

MTB Complex MOTT RNA Detection Qualitative Test

Detects RNA from Mycobacterium tuberculosis and non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) using Real-Time PCR for rapid diagnosis of related infections.

General information only: This page is not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. A qualified clinician should decide whether testing is appropriate and interpret results in context.

Review status: No completed medical review is recorded for this page.

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Counselor guidance included Confidential handling Kenya-wide coordination

At a glance

Plan your test

Sample: Cerebrospinal Fluid (C.S.F.), Pleural Fluid, Synovial Fluid, Sputum, Pus, Tissue, Bronchial Lavage, Urine, Endometrium, Culture Cells, Biopsy, Fine Needle Aspirations, Ascites. Confirm specific sample requirements with the laboratory before collection.
Results: Results are typically available within 36 hours. Confirm exact turnaround time with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation: No specific patient preparation is required for this test. However, patients must provide informed consent and relevant clinical history. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.

Test priceKSh 11,560

Payment: M-Pesa and card options can be confirmed during booking.

Insurance & government schemes

Is this test covered for you?

We help you verify whether the MTB Complex MOTT RNA Detection Qualitative Test test can be claimed against your insurer, employer scheme or a Kenyan government health scheme — before you book. Coverage depends on your plan, clinical indication and your provider's rules; final approval always rests with them.

Talk to a claims advisor

Providers & schemes we can help you check

Government & public schemes

SHIF — Social Health Insurance Fund Linda Mama EduAfya NHIF (legacy cards)

Eligibility and benefits follow the current rules of the Social Health Authority (SHA) and applicable government programmes.

Private insurers & employer schemes

Jubilee Health AAR APA Britam CIC Madison Resolution Pioneer Minet Old Mutual GA Life Heritage + other licensed insurers

Names shown for identification only — listing does not imply partnership or guarantee of coverage.

Have these ready when we check

Insurer or scheme name & policy / member number
A clinician's request / prescription for the test
Pre-authorisation letter, if your plan requires one

Free coverage check

Ask us to verify your cover

Send your details and our claims team confirms what documents you need and whether pre-authorisation applies — usually the same working day.

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+254

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Used only to process your coverage check — see our Privacy Policy. Verification support is free and does not guarantee your provider will pay.

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Start with fit

Is this the right test for you?

The best test starts with a clear clinical question. These are common reasons a clinician or family may consider this test.

✓Symptoms of respiratory infection (e.g., persistent cough, fever).
✓Suspected tuberculosis (TB) infection.
✓Suspected non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infection.
✓History of exposure to TB or NTM.
✓Immunocompromised individuals.
✓Monitoring treatment response (consult your doctor).

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps healthcare providers quickly identify the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and non-tuberculous mycobacteria, aiding in the diagnosis of tuberculosis and other mycobacterial infections. It supports timely treatment decisions and helps monitor disease progression.

The MTB Complex MOTT RNA Detection Qualitative Test is a diagnostic tool used to identify the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (the bacteria causing tuberculosis) and non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) in patient samples. This test uses advanced Real-Time PCR technology to detect the genetic material (RNA) of these bacteria, providing rapid and reliable results. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment and management of these infections. This test is recommended for individuals experiencing symptoms suggestive of mycobacterial infections or those with known exposure risks. The test can be performed on various sample types, including sputum, urine, and other bodily fluids or tissues. Results are typically available within 36 hours. Discuss your results with your healthcare provider for accurate interpretation and guidance.

Medical review status

Clinical review pending

A completed medical review is not recorded for this page. No clinician has endorsed the information shown here. Please discuss testing decisions with a qualified healthcare professional.

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A simple process

What happens next?

You do not have to navigate the test alone. We help you move from question to next step.

Speak with us

We check the test and answer your questions before collection.

Give your sample

Choose home collection or a coordinated hub visit in Kenya. We explain whether this test uses a cheek swab or blood draw.

Understand your report

A counselor helps you understand the result and the next steps.

Choose your collection

Home collection or a lab visit

We will explain the sample, preparation, and next steps before anything is collected.

Home collection

Choose a coordinated visit at home or another convenient location. Our team confirms the appointment and sample requirements in advance.

Lab or hub visit

Prefer to visit a coordinated location? We can guide you to the right hub and explain what to expect when you arrive.

Ask about locations →

PreparationNo specific patient preparation is required for this test. However, patients must provide informed consent and relevant clinical history. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.

SampleCerebrospinal Fluid (C.S.F.), Pleural Fluid, Synovial Fluid, Sputum, Pus, Tissue, Bronchial Lavage, Urine, Endometrium, Culture Cells, Biopsy, Fine Needle Aspirations, Ascites. Confirm specific sample requirements with the laboratory before collection.

MethodologyReal-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR).

PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.

This test detects the presence of mycobacterial RNA but does not differentiate between all species or determine antibiotic resistance. A negative result does not completely rule out infection. Results must be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and other diagnostic tests. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.

Read your report

What common result terms mean

TermPlain-language meaning

PositiveA finding was identified. Your clinician or counselor will explain what it means for your care.

NegativeThe specific finding tested for was not identified. It does not rule out every possible cause.

VUSA variant was found, but current evidence is not enough to classify it. Your counselor can explain follow-up.

Questions people ask

Frequently asked questions

This test detects the genetic material (RNA) of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM).

It allows for rapid and accurate diagnosis of tuberculosis and NTM infections, enabling timely treatment.

Various samples can be used, including sputum, urine, cerebrospinal fluid, pleural fluid, and tissue samples. Your doctor will advise on the appropriate sample.

Results are typically available within 36 hours, but confirm the exact turnaround time with the laboratory.

A positive result indicates the presence of mycobacterial RNA. A negative result suggests the absence of detectable RNA. Discuss your results with your healthcare provider for interpretation.

No specific patient preparation is usually required, but you will need to provide consent and clinical history. Confirm with the laboratory.

Collaboration

Open for partnership with hospitals, clinics, doctors & researchers

Whether you are referring patients, building a research programme or supporting students, we work as an extension of your team — with responsive communication and clear scientific standards.

Hospitals & clinics

Referral pathways, coordinated sample logistics and shared reporting that fits your clinical workflow.

Doctors & specialists

LOINC-coded reports, ACMG-based variant classification and a direct scientific line for complex cases.

Research institutions

Sanger sequencing, NGS panels and custom assays — with project design support, batch pricing and agreed turnaround commitments.

Students & academic projects

Discounted laboratory services for college, master's and PhD research projects — including proposal guidance and cost-effective batch testing.

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Trust & transparency

Sources, standards & how this page is maintained

Standards & references

ACMG/AMP technical standards for sequence variant interpretation
ClinGen curation and gene–disease validity frameworks where applicable
LOINC-coded reporting for interoperable results
ISO 9001:2015 quality management; ISO 15189 accreditation in progress

Page provenance

Last updated: September 27, 2026
Medical review: not yet completed
Written for patients & clinicians in Kenya; reviewed periodically against current guidance

Medical disclaimer: this page is general information, not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. Testing decisions and result interpretation should be made with a qualified healthcare professional.

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