WHO operational handbook on tuberculosis: module 3: diagnosis: rapid diagnostics for tuberculosis detection: web annex A: information sheets

This web annex accompanies the third edition of the WHO operational handbook on tuberculosis, Module 3: Diagnosis, and provides technical information sheets on selected rapid diagnostic technologies for the detection of tuberculosis (TB) and drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB). The document describes the operational characteristics, testing procedures, equipment requirements, storage conditions, throughput, connectivity options and implementation considerations for multiple molecular diagnostic platforms and assays used to detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex and resistance to anti-TB medicines, including rifampicin, isoniazid, fluoroquinolones and second-line injectable agents.

The publication summarizes WHO recommendations for the use of moderate- and low-complexity nucleic acid amplification tests in different clinical settings and populations, including people living with HIV, children and individuals with pulmonary TB. It also addresses issues related to laboratory infrastructure, biosafety, quality assurance, digital data systems, maintenance, training and integration into national TB diagnostic networks. The annex is intended to support national TB programmes, laboratory managers and implementing partners in planning, deploying and scaling up WHO-recommended rapid diagnostic technologies within laboratory systems.