Excerpt
An antibody detection-based diagnostic test in a user-friendly format could potentially replace microscopy and extend tuberculosis diagnosis to lower levels of health services. Dozens of commercial serological tests for tuberculosis are being marketed in many parts of the world, despite previous systematic reviews having reported variable sensitivity and specificity of these tests. Since the publication of these reviews, the evidence base has grown, methods for meta-analyses of diagnostic tests have evolved, and the WHO Stop TB Department (STB) has implemented a systematic approach to evidence synthesis for TB diagnostic policy development involving systematic reviews and meta-analyses, assessment of the evidence base by Expert Group review, and implementation of the GRADE process for evidence synthesis.
The designations employed and the presentation of the material in this publication do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the World Health Organization concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Dotted lines on maps represent approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement.
The mention of specific companies or of certain manufacturers' products does not imply that they are endorsed or recommended by the World Health Organization in preference to others of a similar nature that are not mentioned. Errors and omissions excepted, the names of proprietary products are distinguished by initial capital letters.
All reasonable precautions have been taken by the World Health Organization to verify the information contained in this publication. However, the published material is being distributed without warranty of any kind, either expressed or implied. The responsibility for the interpretation and use of the material lies with the reader. In no event shall the World Health Organization be liable for damages arising from its use.
