Improving TB diagnostics
One critical and early aspect of managing the TB epidemic is early diagnosis so that the appropriate treatment can be started at the necessary time. TDR has investigated same-day microscopy tests, new versions that utilize low-cost florescence, and commercially-available serological tests, which are leading to improved diagnostic accuracy and efficiency, and changes in global policies on TB diagnostics. TDR is also helping to improve the diagnosis of childhood tuberculosis in high TB burden countries, working with the Stop TB Partnership and many other groups, and is providing intensive training on TB diagnostic research methods to researchers from low and middle-income countries where the burden of TB is high.