Simple fluid test could replace needle biopsy for TB of the lung lining
NCT ID NCT06646237
First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tests a new liquid biopsy that measures TB DNA in fluid from around the lungs to diagnose tuberculous pleuritis, a common form of TB. Current methods often require invasive tissue biopsies or have low accuracy. The trial will enroll 350 adults with new-onset pleural effusion to see if this simple fluid test can reliably tell TB from other causes, potentially avoiding the need for a biopsy.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- MTB cell-free DNA assay (liquid biopsy)
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this could provide a quick, less invasive way to diagnose tuberculous pleuritis, reducing the need for tissue biopsies.
- What could go wrong
- The test was developed on a small, selected group, so it may not work as well in a broader, real-world population. Also, it is still being validated and is not yet available for routine use.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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Chinese University of Hong Kong
Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
More trials for these conditions
Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.