This research compares the microscopic observation of drug susceptibility tests with traditional
methods for identifying
Mycobacterium Tuberculosis
. Methods: This study analyzed 100 sputum
samples from two patient groups: one group was categorized as having been exposed to
tuberculosis and the other group was categorized as having a high risk of TB. This study
performed Sputum-smears, Löwenstein-Jensen cultures, as well as the MODS method, and the
proportion method. Results: Out of 100 samples studied, 22 cases were sputum-smear positive.
22 cases were found positive to Löwenstein-Jensen, and 23 positive cases were found to MODS.
Both sensitivity and specificity for MODS were 100% (P < 0.05). Löwenstein-Jensen had a
sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 98.7% (P <0.05). The average time for positive results
using MODS was 7.04 days, while LJ took 34.18 days (P < 0.05). Of the 22 Sputum samples
taken in order to determine the pattern of resistance, MODS and the proportion method matched
in 96% for INH and 100% for Rifampin. For both methods, there were 5 MDR and one case
resistant to Isoniazide (P < 0.05). Conclusions: The MODS liquid method proved to be faster,
more sensitive, and more cost effective compared to the reference methods used to detect
Mycobacterium Tuberculosis.