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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

Mycobacterium Tuberculosis rRNA Detection TMA Test

Detects Mycobacterium tuberculosis rRNA using advanced TMA technology for rapid and sensitive tuberculosis diagnosis. Essential for symptomatic individuals or those at high risk.

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
Confirm with the laboratory before booking. Typically requires sputum, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, or other relevant biological samples.
Results
Confirm with the laboratory before booking. Results are typically available within a few days.
Preparation
Confirm with the laboratory before booking. Specific preparation instructions may vary depending on the sample type.
Test priceKSh 8,000

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

01

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.

  • ✓Persistent cough (more than 3 weeks)
  • ✓Unexplained weight loss
  • ✓Fever and night sweats
  • ✓Chest pain
  • ✓Fatigue
  • ✓Close contact with a known TB patient
  • ✓Individuals with compromised immune systems
  • ✓Residents of high TB prevalence areas
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test aids in the early and accurate diagnosis of active Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection, guiding appropriate treatment decisions and helping to control the spread of tuberculosis.
The Mycobacterium Tuberculosis rRNA Detection TMA Test is a state-of-the-art diagnostic tool designed to detect the presence of tuberculosis (TB) in patients. Tuberculosis remains a significant public health challenge, and early detection is crucial for effective treatment and control of the disease. This test employs Transcription Mediated Amplification (TMA) technology, which allows for the rapid and sensitive detection of TB rRNA in various biological samples.

This test specifically measures the rRNA of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria, indicating an active infection. By identifying the genetic material of the bacteria, healthcare providers can confirm the presence of TB more accurately than traditional methods.

Individuals should consider the Mycobacterium Tuberculosis rRNA Detection TMA Test if they exhibit symptoms of tuberculosis, which may include: - Persistent cough lasting more than three weeks - Chest pain - Unexplained weight loss - Fever and night sweats - Fatigue

Additionally, those at higher risk, such as individuals with compromised immune systems, close contacts of TB patients, or those living in high-prevalence areas, should also consider this test.

The benefits of the Mycobacterium Tuberculosis rRNA Detection TMA Test include: - Rapid results, allowing for timely diagnosis and treatment - High sensitivity and specificity, reducing the chances of false negatives - Convenient sample collection options - Helps in monitoring treatment efficacy and disease progression

Results from the Mycobacterium Tuberculosis rRNA Detection TMA Test are typically available within a few days. A positive result indicates the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and further clinical evaluation will be necessary to determine the appropriate treatment. A negative result suggests that TB is not present, but it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider for a comprehensive assessment, especially if symptoms persist.
03

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.

Meet the DNA Labs Kenya medical team →
04

A simple process

What happens next?

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

1

Speak with us

We check the test and answer your questions before collection.

2

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.

3

Understand your report

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

05

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 →
PreparationConfirm with the laboratory before booking. Specific preparation instructions may vary depending on the sample type.
SampleConfirm with the laboratory before booking. Typically requires sputum, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, or other relevant biological samples.
MethodologyTranscription Mediated Amplification (TMA) technology is used to detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis rRNA.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test detects the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis rRNA. A negative result does not completely rule out TB infection, especially in cases of low bacterial load or latent TB. Clinical correlation is essential.
06

Read your report

What common result terms mean

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.
07

Questions people ask

Frequently asked questions

Tuberculosis is an infectious disease usually caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which typically affects the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body.
Early detection allows for prompt treatment, which improves patient outcomes, reduces the risk of complications, and helps prevent the spread of the disease to others.
A positive result indicates the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis rRNA in the sample, suggesting an active TB infection. Further evaluation by a healthcare provider is necessary.
A negative result suggests that Mycobacterium tuberculosis rRNA was not detected in the sample. However, it does not completely rule out TB, especially if symptoms persist. Consult your doctor.
The sample collection process (e.g., sputum collection) may cause mild discomfort, but the test itself is not painful.
We have branches in major cities across Kenya and offer home sample collection services for your convenience. Contact us to book.
08

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.

Explore partnerships
09

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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