The feasibility of sputum transportation system in China: effect of sputum storage on the mycobacterial detection.

rate was 7.57%. We found that sputum specimens refrigerated for no more than 7 d before mycobacterial detection did not affect culture significantly. In addition, the invalid result rates among 0-3 d, 3-7 d, and 7+ d group were 3.63%, 3.14%, and 12.48%, respectively. Statistic analysis revealed that molecular diagnostic results while the invalid result rate of genechip for the specimen with more than 7 d delay was significantly higher (P<0.001). The refrigerators equipped in county laboratories, transport at low temperature and frequent transport services once a week will ensure the feasibility of sputum transportation system in China. Tuberculosis (TB) is caused by various strains of mycobacteria, most often Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis). The disease remains a major threat to public health worldwide (1-3)