Advances in the diagnosis of tuberculosis

Several advances in the laboratory diagnosis of tuberculosis have been described recently. Refinements in collection of specimens, methods of staining and culture techniques have been described. Several newer immunological tests such as ELISA, SAFA, and leucocyte migration inhibition test are useful in the diagnosis of sputum negative pulmonary tuberculosis. Indirect immunofluoresence test and leucocyte migration inhibition test are useful in determining the duration of chemotherapy. Detection of mycobacterial cellular products such as tuberculosteric acid in sputum are helpful in diagnosing sputum negative cases. This article describes briefly the principle and usefulness of these tests in diagnosis of tuberculosis.