[Molecular methods for the rapid diagnosis of mycobacterial infections]

With the aim to reduce the time for the diagnosis of mycobacterial infections, various molecular methods were developed recently which are particularly suitable for clinical mycobacteriology laboratories. These methods permit both the detection and rapid identification either directly from the pathological sample or culture. We hereby review the most recent advances in this field, particularly those involving hybridization with molecular probes, or nucleic amplification methods. We also review the strategy employed for current research developments for application in mycobacterial diagnosis as well as the future prospects.