Rapid diagnostics for tuberculosis detection

The e-course focuses on the use of the new tuberculosis (TB) diagnostics tools recommended by WHO, the application of these in four WHO diagnostic model algorithms and the requirements to consider when adjusting those algorithms for the country context.

Diagnosis

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Target Audience

Strategic resource persons

Why take this course

WHO data shows that only 6 in 10 people with TB get quality care. Affordable and quick diagnosis is the first step towards achieving such care. There is an urgent need to enable universal access to rapid molecular diagnostic tests, in line with the latest WHO recommendations.

This e-course will guide you through the essentials of latest existing WHO guidelines and policy recommendations on diagnostics for TB detection. It discusses the WHO-recommended conventional and rapid diagnostic tools; in particular, their strengths and limitations in different laboratory network scenarios.

The e-course is intended for people who provide guidance on implementing WHO recommendations on TB at country level; for example, national programme managers, managers of laboratory services, technical staff at ministries of health, WHO staff, staff of technical agencies, consultants and anyone else serving a similar role in countries and major subnational units.

It is assumed that you have experience working in TB and are familiar with WHO TB guidelines.

Description

This e-learning course is a comprehensive, self-paced, online course that follows the content of the WHO operational handbook on tuberculosis. Module 3: Diagnosis – rapid diagnostics for tuberculosis detection (2021 update). The main focus of the e-course is programmatic; clinical aspects are only discussed when relevant to specific topics.

The e-course comprises seven sections and a final assessment and uses a combination of short video lectures, exercises, quiz questions and additional reading materials.

Course Index:

Introduction to the e-learning course
Rationale for delivering diagnostic services
Key elements of TB diagnostic services
WHO-recommended diagnostic tests
- Conventional and initial diagnostic test
- Follow-on diagnostics, tests recommended against use, and tests in the pipeline
Considerations for the new implementation of new diagnostics
Diagnostic algorithms
Monitoring the performance of a TB laboratory network
Final assessment