WHO announces forthcoming updates on the diagnosis of TB

24 September 2024 | Geneva — In a rapid communication issued today, the World Health Organization (WHO) is announcing updates on the diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB), with a focus on concurrent use of tests in adults and adolescents living with HIV and in children, including in children living with HIV:

• concurrent use of molecular test on respiratory samples and LF-LAM on urine for diagnosis of TB in adults and adolescents with HIV has improved accuracy and moderate cost requirements compared with single testing;
• concurrent use of molecular test on respiratory specimens and stool for diagnosis of TB in children has improved accuracy and moderate cost requirements compared with single testing;
• concurrent use of molecular test on respiratory samples, stool, and LF-LAM on urine in children living with HIV has improved accuracy and moderate cost requirements compared with single testing;
• two new diagnostic classes have been established: low complexity automated nucleic acid amplification tests (LC-aNAATs) and low complexity manual nucleic acid amplification tests (LC-mNAATs).

WHO’s End TB Strategy calls for early diagnosis of TB and universal access to drug-susceptibility testing but the diagnostic gaps remain significant in many countries worldwide.

“The diagnostic options for people with TB and drug-resistant TB, including children and people living with HIV are increasing thanks to manufacturer engagement and research, generating new evidence. Ensuring that everyone in need can obtain a rapid and accurate diagnosis will advance efforts at preventing and finally eliminating TB,” said Dr Tereza Kasaeva, Director of WHO’s Global TB Programme.

For more TB updates, check out the TB CAB Weekly Newsletter (#3, 25 September 2024).

The newsletter is brought to you by the Global TB Community Advisory Board (TB CAB) with the support of Treatment Action Group (TAG) and EATG. Subscribe to the newsletter here.