Choosing algorithms for TB screening: a modelling study to compare yield, predictive value and diagnostic burden.

ABSTRACT:

Background

To inform the choice of an appropriate screening and diagnostic algorithm for tuberculosis (TB) screening initiatives in different epidemiological settings, we compare algorithms composed of currently available methods.

Methods

Of twelve algorithms composed of screening for symptoms (prolonged cough or any TB symptom) and/or chest radiography abnormalities, and either sputum-smear microscopy (SSM) or Xpert MTB/RIF (XP) as confirmatory test we model algorithm outcomes and summarize the yield, number needed to screen (NNS) and positive predictive value (PPV) for different levels of TB prevalence.

Results

Screening for prolonged cough has low yield, 22% if confirmatory testing is by SSM and 32% if XP, and a high NNS, exceeding 1000 if TB prevalence is ≤0.5%. D

SUBMITTER: Van't Hoog AH 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4287425 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature