Resistance testing can be performed on positive samples after discussion with and approval by a Microbiologist.
M. leprae cannot be cultured using routine (artificial) microbiological media therefore molecular techniques such as PCR and DNA sequencing are required to find point mutations conferring resistance.
Rifampicin resistance: Resistance in M. leprae is primarily associated with mutations in the rpoB gene, which encodes the beta subunit of RNA polymerase. Rifampicin resistance in leprosy is monitored by detecting mutations in this gene.
Dapsone resistance: Resistance to dapsone in M. leprae is typically associated with mutations in the folP1 gene (dihydropteroate synthase gene). Monitoring dapsone resistance involves detecting mutations in this gene.
Fluoroquinolone resistance: Fluoroquinolone resistance in M. leprae is associated with mutations in the gyrA gene (DNA gyrase subunit A). Molecular techniques can detect mutations in gyrA to assess resistance to fluoroquinolones.
Laboratory instruction:
Dedicated number for this request.
Send at 4 degree