DNA amplification tests for Tb ready for prime time!

Nucleic acid amplification tests for Tb can cut the time for laboratory diagnosis from weeks to days. In its updated guidelines for the use of amplification tests the CDC has issued this strong statement:

NAA testing should be performed on at least one respiratory specimen from each patient with signs and symptoms of pulmonary TB for whom a diagnosis of TB is being considered but has not yet been established, and for whom the test result would alter case management or TB control activities.

The guideline lists some commercially available testing services and provides an algorithm. CME on this topic is available here via Medscape.