Development and application of two multiplex real-time PCR assays for the detection of Mycobacterium ulcerans in clinical and environmental samples

The development and application of two multiplex real-time PCR assays targeting three distinct repeated sequences in Mycobacterium ulcerans genome is presented. The assay improves the turnaround time for diagnosis and replaces conventional gel-based PCR as the routine method for laboratory confirmation of Mycobacterium ulcerans infection.