text_1: New easy-to-use TB test achieves accuracy comparable to IGRAs in Phase III trials
text_2: This news release summarizes the results of two clinical trials gauging the efficacy of a new test for tuberculosis — C-Tb. The study compared the new test with a more complex, and expensive, alternative and measures whether the new test works better in patients who are HIV-positive and/or who are vaccinated with the Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) vaccine. The release provides adequate data for readers to trust its claims but doesn’t mention funding sources or address whether there was any potential for conflicts of interest. To its credit, however, the release includes a basic research abstract providing more detailed information on the results from the trials. Tuberculosis is a serious problem worldwide and the World Health Organization (WHO) has a stated goal of controlling, if not eradicating, the disease by 2035. As is noted, the most often used test (TST) is associated with a high false positive rate making inappropriate treatment more likely. Given the increasing resistance of the tuberculosis bacteria, a reduction in unnecessary antibiotic treatment is welcomed. Any new test that is more accurate, less expensive and convenient to use will certainly be an asset to that effort.