Cartridge Based Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (CBNAAT) endorsed by World Health Organization is now available at district TB centre, Kohima for diagnosis of MDR TB (Multi Drug Resistant) patients.
The CB-NAAT laboratory is one of the 11 labs operating in India under EXPAND TB project. The project is being facilitated by FIND (Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics) agency specifically grass root level in the country.
The new DNA rapid test is a fully automated diagnostic molecular test that simultaneously detects TB and Rifampicin drug resistance (a reliable indicator for MDR TB). Unlike the conventional culture & DST (Drug Sensitivity Test) which takes one & half to three months, DNA test provides accurate results in a matter of 100 minutes. It also requires minimal bio-safety requirement, training and can be housed in non conventional laboratories.
It may be mentioned here that a MDR TB patient is one who has developed resistance to Anti TB drugs particularly to Isoniazid and Rifampicin diagnosed in an RNTCP accredited laboratory. Specific measures were being taken within the Revised National Tuberculosis Control Programme (RNTCP) to address MDR-TB problem through appropriate management of patients and strategies to prevent the propagation and dissemination of MDR TB.
Nagaland has already launched DOTS plus services for investigation and treatment of MDR TB cases since January 24. Like DOTS treatment, DOTS plus services is also provided free of cost which includes diagnosis and treatment of MDR TB.
The Facility in Nagaland will also cater the state of Manipur and 4 districts of Assam. It has the potential to revolutionize and transform TB care and control for the revised national tuberculosis control programme in the country and also Nagaland in particular.
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