M. Leprosy Bacterial Load Test
Short Name: M. Leprosy Bacterial Load
Also known as: Leprosy Bacterial Load Test, Mycobacterium leprae PCR, M. leprae Quantitative PCR
M. Leprosy Bacterial Load Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹6,800. Uses Real-Time PCR on Ear droppings, Lesion curatings, Biopsy of patches, Scraps of nasal mucosa, Urine samples. Results in Reports are available within 3 working days. Email reports within 36 hours, phone consultation within 24 hours.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal
Consultant Microbiologist · Reg: 27670
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The primary purpose of the M. Leprosy Bacterial Load Test is to confirm the diagnosis of leprosy by detecting Mycobacterium leprae DNA in clinical samples. It also quantifies the bacterial load, which is useful for classifying the disease (tuberculoid vs. lepromatous), determining the infectivity, and monitoring the response to treatment. Early detection through this test can prevent complications and reduce transmission.
- Test Code
- 6178
- CPT Code
- 87168
- ICD Code
- A30.9
- Price
- ₹6,800
- Sample Type
- Ear droppings, Lesion curatings, Biopsy of patches, Scraps of nasal mucosa, Urine
- Result Time
- Reports are available within 3 working days. Email reports within 36 hours, phone consultation within 24 hours.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Real-Time PCR
Sample Collection
No special preparation is required. However, the patient must sign a consent document and provide relevant clinical history. Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, especially antibiotics.
Method: Healthcare professional
Laboratory Analysis
Sample collection involves taking a small biopsy or scraping from the affected skin lesion, ear lobe, or nasal mucosa. The procedure is quick and may cause minor discomfort. A healthcare professional will perform the collection using sterile techniques.
Report Delivery
After sample collection, you can resume normal activities. There may be mild bleeding or soreness at the collection site, which usually resolves quickly. Follow any additional instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
Timeline: Reports are available within 3 working days. Email reports within 36 hours, phone consultation within 24 hours.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The primary purpose of the M. Leprosy Bacterial Load Test is to confirm the diagnosis of leprosy by detecting Mycobacterium leprae DNA in clinical samples. It also quantifies the bacterial load, which is useful for classifying the disease (tuberculoid vs. lepromatous), determining the infectivity, and monitoring the response to treatment. Early detection through this test can prevent complications and reduce transmission.
How to Prepare
- Consent document must be signed before sample collection
- Bring any relevant clinical history or previous test reports
- Sample should be collected in a sterile container provided by the lab
- For skin biopsy, the site should be cleaned with antiseptic before collection
- Nasal scrapings should be taken from both nostrils using a sterile swab
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"Early detection of Mycobacterium leprae is crucial to prevent disability and transmission. This PCR-based test provides a quantitative measure of bacterial load, aiding in diagnosis and monitoring of treatment response."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Insufficient sample quantity
- Sample in inappropriate container
- Sample leaking or contaminated
- Sample not properly labeled
- Sample received after prolonged delay without proper storage
Understanding Your Results
No Mycobacterium leprae DNA detected. Leprosy is unlikely, but clinical correlation is advised.
Clinical action: Consider other causes of symptoms or repeat test if suspicion remains.
Mycobacterium leprae DNA present, indicating paucibacillary leprosy (tuberculoid type).
Clinical action: Start multidrug therapy (MDT) as per WHO guidelines and monitor.
High bacterial load, indicating multibacillary leprosy (lepromatous type).
Clinical action: Initiate appropriate MDT regimen and close follow-up.
Consult a physician if you have skin patches with loss of sensation, numbness, weakness, or any symptoms suggestive of leprosy. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent disability.
Limitations
- ⚠A negative result does not completely rule out leprosy, especially in early or paucibacillary forms
- ⚠Test cannot differentiate between viable and non-viable bacteria
- ⚠Quantification may not correlate directly with clinical severity in all cases
- ⚠Results should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and histopathology
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minor bleeding or bruising at biopsy site
- ●Infection (rare, if proper sterile technique is not followed)
- ●Pain or discomfort during sample collection
Interfering Factors
- ●Improper sample collection or storage may lead to false negatives
- ●Prior antibiotic treatment may reduce bacterial load and affect detection
- ●Contamination during sample processing can cause false positives
- ●Very low bacterial load in paucibacillary leprosy may be below detection limit
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | M. Leprosy Bacterial Load Test | Skin Smear Microscopy (Ziehl-Neelsen) | Skin Biopsy Histopathology | Serological Tests (anti-PGL-1) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | M. Leprosy Bacterial Load Test | Microscopy is less sensitive than PCR and cannot detect low bacterial loads. PCR is more accurate and provides quantitative data. | Histopathology can show characteristic granulomas but may not always identify the bacteria. PCR adds molecular confirmation. | Serology detects antibodies but may not reflect current infection. PCR detects active bacterial DNA. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of the M. Leprosy Bacterial Load Test at DNA Labs India?
What sample is required for the M. Leprosy Bacterial Load Test?
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How long does it take to get the test results?
Is home sample collection available?
What is the purpose of the M. Leprosy Bacterial Load Test?
What are the symptoms of leprosy?
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Can the test differentiate between tuberculoid and lepromatous leprosy?
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