New Laboratory Diagnostic Tools for Tuberculosis Control

This document describes nineteen (19) new or improved diagnostic tools of the many that have been or are being developed. WHO has a process for evaluating and endorsing new tools for TB control programmes. Three (3) of the tools described in this document have already been endorsed by WHO and are being implemented by countries, while the others are still under development or in piloting phase and are expected to be ready for review for appropriateness for scaled-up use in the coming years. The purpose of this document is not to recommend specific tools, but rather to provide summary information about them so that all who play a part in TB control, especially in National TB Programmes, can understand the tools better and make well-informed decisions when retooling.