Simple Intervention Improves TB Detection

Verbal instruction on how to obtain a good sputum sample led to increased smear positivity among patients — particularly women — with suspected TB.

Sputum microscopy remains the primary method to diagnose TB in most settings, but results depend in part on the quality of sputum specimens. Investigators in Pakistan, a country with a high TB burden, conducted a controlled trial to assess whether verbal instructions could improve rates of smear-positive case detection.

Patients with suspected TB were randomized to receive 2 minutes of sputum-submission guidance from a trained health worker or to submit specimens without guidance. Guidance included information about the difference between saliva and sputum, the desirability of obtaining an adequate amount, and techniques for effective expectoration. All participants were asked to provide one specimen during that visit and to bring a second, …

Reviewing Author

Mary E. Wilson, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardOneHealthTrust (formerly Center for Disease Dynamics, Economics, and Policy); Global Health Institute, University of Wisconsin

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Editorial BoardsJournal of Travel Medicine

Mary E. Wilson, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardOneHealthTrust (formerly Center for Disease Dynamics, Economics, and Policy); Global Health Institute, University of Wisconsin

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Editorial BoardsJournal of Travel Medicine

Simple Intervention Improves TB Detection

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Reviewing Author