Tuberculosis (TB) Laboratory
Providing specialized tuberculosis diagnostic and referral laboratory services to support early disease detection, surveillance, treatment monitoring, and national tuberculosis control efforts.
About the Tuberculosis Laboratory
The Tuberculosis Laboratory at Nekemte Public Health Research & Referral Laboratory (NPHRRL) provides specialized laboratory services for the diagnosis, confirmation, and monitoring of tuberculosis. The laboratory supports healthcare facilities across western Oromia by delivering accurate and timely diagnostic services using nationally approved laboratory methods.
The laboratory contributes to tuberculosis surveillance, referral testing, drug resistance monitoring, and outbreak investigations while maintaining high standards of biosafety, quality management, and professional practice.
TB
Specialized Diagnostics
GeneXpert
Rapid Detection
Quality
Standardized Testing
Regional
Referral Laboratory
Core Tuberculosis Laboratory Services
Tuberculosis Diagnosis
GeneXpert Testing
Referral Testing
TB Surveillance
Available Tuberculosis Tests
| Test | Purpose | Specimen Type |
|---|---|---|
| GeneXpert MTB/RIF | Rapid TB detection | Sputum |
| Sputum Smear Microscopy | TB diagnosis | Sputum |
| TB Culture | Confirmatory testing | Sputum |
| Drug Susceptibility Testing | Drug resistance monitoring | Culture isolate |
Note:
Test availability may vary according to national tuberculosis program guidelines, equipment availability, and approved laboratory services.
Supporting Tuberculosis Control in Ethiopia
The Tuberculosis Laboratory plays an essential role in supporting Ethiopia’s National Tuberculosis Control Program by providing accurate diagnostic services, referral testing, surveillance data, and laboratory expertise. Through close collaboration with healthcare facilities and public health authorities, the laboratory contributes to early case detection, timely treatment initiation, monitoring of drug resistance, and strengthened tuberculosis control efforts across western Oromia.
Technology & Laboratory Equipment
The Tuberculosis Laboratory utilizes modern diagnostic technologies and biosafety practices to ensure accurate and reliable tuberculosis testing.
Equipment List
- GeneXpert System
- Fluorescence Microscope
- Biosafety Cabinet Class II
- Laboratory Centrifuge
- Refrigeration & Cold Storage
Specimen Collection & Submission Guidelines
Step 1 - Collect
Collect sputum or other approved specimens following national tuberculosis specimen collection guidelines.
Step 2 - Label
Clearly label all specimens with patient identification and laboratory request information.
Step 3 - Transport
Transport specimens under recommended biosafety and temperature conditions.
Step 4 - Submit
Submit specimens together with the completed laboratory request form.
Quality Assurance
Quality Management System
Standardized laboratory procedures and documentation.
External Quality Assessment
Participation in national quality assessment programs.
Biosafety & Biosecurity
Safe handling of infectious specimens following biosafety regulations.
Continuous Improvement
Regular equipment maintenance, staff competency assessment, and quality monitoring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can submit specimens for tuberculosis testing?
Authorized hospitals, health centers, clinics, and public health programs following established referral procedures.
Which specimens are accepted?
Sputum is the primary specimen for tuberculosis diagnosis. Other specimen types may be accepted based on national guidelines and clinical indications.
Does the laboratory perform GeneXpert testing?
Yes. GeneXpert testing is provided where available as part of approved tuberculosis diagnostic services.
How can healthcare facilities obtain additional information?
Healthcare providers may contact the Tuberculosis Laboratory directly or use the Contact Us page for technical support and specimen referral guidance.
Need Assistance with Tuberculosis Laboratory Services?
Contact our Tuberculosis Laboratory for information on specimen submission, diagnostic services, referral procedures, and technical consultation.
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