Feasibility of the string test for tuberculosis diagnosis in children between 4 and 14 years old

Background The enteric string test can be used to obtain a specimen for microbiological confirmation of tuberculosis in children, but it is not widely used for this. The aim of this analysis to evaluate this approach in children with tuberculosis symptoms. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study to assess children's ability to complete the test (feasibility), and self-reported pain (tolerability). We examined caregivers' and children's willingness to repeat the procedure (acceptability) and described the diagnostic yield of cultures for diagnostic tools. We stratified estimates by age and compared metrics to those derived for gastric aspirate (GA). Results Among 148 children who attempted the string test, 34% successfully swallowed the capsule. Feasibility was higher among children aged 11-14 than in children 4-10 years (83% vs 22% respectively, p Conclusion Although the string test was generally tolerable and accepted by children and caregivers; feasibility in young children was low. Reducing the capsule size may improve test success rates in younger children.