Metagenomic next-generation sequencing for Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex detection: a meta-analysis

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Genomics
• Medical Diagnostics

Background:

• Tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis relies on methods with varying sensitivity and speed.
• Metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) offers rapid and sensitive detection capabilities.
• Significant variability exists in reported mNGS performance for TB, necessitating a comprehensive assessment.

Approach:

• A systematic meta-analysis was conducted, searching major scientific databases up to June 21, 2023.
• Included studies utilized mNGS for tuberculosis detection in clinical specimens.
• Risk of bias was assessed using QUADAS-2, with meta-analysis performed using STATA14.0.

Key Points:

• Seventeen studies involving 3,205 specimens were analyzed.
• The pooled sensitivity and specificity of mNGS for clinical specimens were 0.69 and 1.00, respectively.
• Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) samples showed lower sensitivity (0.58).

Conclusions:

• Metagenomic next-generation sequencing demonstrates high sensitivity and speed for diagnosing Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
• mNGS shows promise for both mono and mixed infections.
• The technology is poised for increased application in addressing challenges related to Mycobacterium tuberculosis complexes.