<prompt> Most rapid diagnosis of pulmonary TB can be done by ?Sputum cultureSputum microscopyRadiometric BACTEC methodGenexpe  <response>: Ans. is b i.e., Sputum microscopy Sputum smear microscopy is the quickest and easiest procedure. But it lacks both sensitivity and specificity. Sputum culture is sensitive and most specific. But it takes 2-8 weeks for culture on routine L.J. media solid medium. M tuberculosis produces visible colonies on solid media L.J. media in 4-8 weeks. Studies have shown that the rate of Isolation of positive cultures was significantly faster with the Bactec method with 87 of the positives being obtained at 7 days and 96 by 14 days. Gene XPe should be used as the initial diagnostic test in individuals suspected of having MDR-TB or HIV-associated TB strong recommendation, and Xpe may be used as a follow-on test to microscopy where MDR andor HIV are of lesser concern, especially in smear-negative specimens conditional recommendation. The GeneXpe MTBRIF assay is a novel integrated diagnostic device for the diagnosis of tuberculosis and rapid detection of RIF resistance in clinical specimens. 