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  • The most appropriate way to detect pulmonary TB is by Xpert MTB/RIF testing or sputum smear microscopy. Xpert MTB/RIF is a new molecular test that can be used at lower level health facilities and can provide highly sensitive results including rifampicin resistance in about 2 hours.

  • A physical examination is also an essential part of the evaluation of any patient. It cannot be used to confirm or rule out TB, but it can provide valuable information about the patient’s overall condition and other factors that may affect how TB is treated.

  • Culture can confirm M. tuberculosis and DST is used for certain groups of TB suspects who are considered high risk for MDR-TB.
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