WHO operational handbook on tuberculosis: module 3: diagnosis: rapid diagnostics for tuberculosis detection

This operational handbook provides practical guidance for implementing WHO policies and recommendations on rapid diagnostic technologies for tuberculosis (TB) and drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB). The publication describes WHO-recommended diagnostic tests for the detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex and resistance to anti-TB medicines, including molecular rapid diagnostic tests, line-probe assays, loop-mediated isothermal amplification, lateral flow lipoarabinomannan assays and phenotypic and genotypic drug-susceptibility testing methods. It outlines the indications, operational characteristics and recommended use of these technologies in different clinical and epidemiological settings, including pulmonary, extrapulmonary and HIV-associated TB.

The handbook also presents model diagnostic algorithms aligned with current WHO recommendations and discusses the organization of TB laboratory networks, specimen referral systems, biosafety, quality assurance, supply chain management, digital connectivity and monitoring processes required for implementation. In addition, it provides guidance on planning, introducing and scaling up new diagnostic technologies within national TB programmes. The document is intended for ministries of health, national TB programmes, laboratory managers, donors and implementing partners involved in strengthening TB diagnostic capacity and improving access to timely and accurate TB testing.