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Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology
Medknow Publications on behalf of The Indian Association of Dermatologists, Venereologists and Leprologists (IADVL)
ISSN: 0378-6323
EISSN: 0378-6323
Vol. 69, No. 3, 2003, pp. 214-216
Bioline Code: dv03006
Full paper language: English
Document type: Research Article
Document available free of charge

Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, Vol. 69, No. 3, 2003, pp. 214-216

 en Study - Utility of polymerase chain reaction as a diagnostic tool in cutaneous tuberculosis
Padmavathy L., Lakshmana Rao L., Veliath A. J.

Abstract

Background: Differentiation of cutaneous tuberculosis from other infective granulomas of the skin is difficult due to paucity of the organisms in tissue biopsies. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is a newer technique to identify the DNA of Mycobacterium tuberculosis check for this species in other resources in the tissues. Aim: We examined the utility of PCR as a tool for rapid diagnosis of cutaneous tuberculosis especially in cases negative by ZN staining and culture. Material and Methods: Twenty five random skin biopsies from patients with various types of cutaneous tuberculosis were subjected to PCR. Results: An overall positivity of 64% was observed, which is comparable to other series. Seventy five percent of lupus vulgaris cases, 62.2% of tuberculosis verrucosa cutis and 50% of scrofuloderma cases showed PCR positivity. Conclusion: Though useful, the cost and the technique involved limit the use of PCR in developing countries like ours.

Keywords
Cutaneous tuberculosis, PCR, Rapid diagnosis

 
© Copyright 2003 Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology. Free full text also at http://www.ijdvl.com
Alternative site location: http://www.ijdvl.com

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