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.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). Database reports epidemiological data, sample localization, smear microscopy, mycobacterial culture, Xpert Ultra and IGRA results, histology, imaging and clinical data, start therapy date, outcome.