Evaluation of Trace calls by Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra for clinical management in low TB burden settings

Fifty-nine patients with presumptive TB and at least one Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra trace call result during diagnostic workup before treatment initiation in the period November 2017-December 2020 at the Policlinico di S. Orsola in Bologna (Italy), were included in the study.<br>The aim of the study was to evaluate the frequency and epidemiology of trace readouts in routine clinical practice in a low TB prevalence setting and to propose a guidance on how to manage patients with trace result according to available data (i.e. clinical, radiological, bacteriological and others). <br>Database reports epidemiological data, sample localization, smear microscopy, mycobacterial culture, Xpert Ultra and IGRA results, histology, imaging and clinical data, start therapy date, outcome.