Development of accurate non-sputum-based diagnostic tests for tuberculosis: an ongoing challenge

Abstract

Tuberculosis is the leading cause of death, admission to hospital, and inpatient mortality in adults with HIV. Progress towards ending tuberculosis mortality has been reversed by the COVID-19 pandemic, with an estimated 187 000 deaths in individuals with HIV-associated tuberculosis in 2021.1 To decrease this mortality, accurate and affordable diagnostic tests that are rapid and available at, or close to, the point of care are urgently needed; these tests could ensure appropriate and timeous initiation of tuberculosis treatment in people with HIV who might have rapid clinical deterioration without treatment.