Identification of Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Complex in Clinical Specimens in Shahrekord County in Southwest Iran by Real-Time PCR

Abstract

Introduction: According to the annual reports of the World Health Organization, infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTC) is a global and serious health threat. Therefore, this study aimed to identify MTC in various clinical specimens using the real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) method. Methods: This cross-sectional study investigated the presence of MTC in 178 clinical samples collected from different wards of Hajar and Kashani Hospitals in Shahrekord. The attendance of MTC was investigated after nucleic acid extraction and complementary DNA production using RT-PCR according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Results: Out of 178 participants, 92 (51.7%) were female, 86 (48.3%) were male, and most were older than 60. Moreover, the majority of specimens were bronchoalveolar lavage samples. Finally, MTC-positive cases were most frequently observed in participants under 40. Conclusion: The findings of this study revealed a high frequency of MTC in patients under 40. Nonetheless, further studies and resources are needed to improve preventive measures against the transmission of tuberculosis infection.