New developments in tuberculosis diagnosis and treatment

Tuberculosis (TB) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. It is estimated that 25% of the world's population are infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis, with a 5–10% lifetime risk of progression into TB disease. Early recognition of TB disease and prompt detection of drug resistance are essential to halting its global burden. Culture, direct microscopy, biomolecular tests and whole genome sequencing are approved methods of diagnosis; however, their widespread use is often curtailed owing to costs, local resources, time constraints and operator efficiency. Methods of optimising these diagnostics, in addition to developing novel techniques, are under review. The selection of an appropriate drug regimen is dependent on the susceptibility pattern of the isolate detected. At present, there are 16 new drugs under evaluation for TB treatment in phase I or II clinical trials, with an additional 22 drugs in preclinical stages. Alongside the development of these new drugs, most of which are oral medications, new shorter regimes are under evaluation. The aim of these shorter regimens is to encourage patient adherence, and prevent relapse or the evolution of further drug resistance. Screening for TB infection, especially in vulnerable populations, provides an opportunity for intervention prior to progression towards infectious TB disease. New regimens are currently under evaluation to assess the efficacy of shorter durations of treatment in this population. In addition, there is extensive research into the use of post-exposure vaccinations in this cohort. Worldwide collaboration and sharing of expertise are essential to our ultimate aim of global eradication of TB disease. EDUCATIONAL AIMS: Differentiate between TB infection and TB disease. Understand the different methods of diagnosing TB disease and resistance. Recognise the different drugs and regimens currently in use for TB disease. Be able to discuss risk of TB disease in TB infection, and assist patients in making an informed decision on treatment for TB infection.