[Rapid isolation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis by chromatography and mass spectrometry selected-ion monitoring].

The method employs identification of M. tuberculosis marker, tuberculostearinic acid. Bacterial culture and sputum from tuberculous and nontuberculous pulmonary disease patients were examined. The results of bacterial and chromatic mass-spectrometry methods in tuberculous patients proved identical. The latter technique is highly sensitive and provides quick results.