Faster test for tuberculosis

摘要

Early diagnosis of tuberculosis is now a step closer, say scientists from India and Japan.rnBansi Malhotra from the National Physical Laboratory in New Delhi, India and colleagues have made a detection device that is quick, precise and efficient to use.rnAccording to the World Health Organization, tuberculosis kills nearly three million people every year. Patients suffer damage to their lungs, bones and central nervous system. Current detection techniques, such as the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunoassays, although sensitive, can take from hours to days to complete and are expensive. A faster and cheaper test is an absolute necessity, says Malhotra.