Can a finger-prick test improve TB screening in hard-to-reach areas?

NCT ID NCT05526885

Completed Diagnosis Sponsor: Klaus Reither Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026

Summary

This study tested two ways to find tuberculosis (TB) in communities in Lesotho and South Africa. One method used a chest X-ray analyzed by computer software (CAD4TB). The other added a finger-prick blood test (CRP) for people whose X-ray results were unclear. Both methods were followed by a confirmatory test. The goal was to see if adding the blood test finds as many TB cases while being more cost-effective. About 20,000 adults took part.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to: If successful, this approach could make TB screening cheaper and more accessible in high-burden communities, helping find more cases earlier.
What could go wrong: The trial is completed but results are not yet widely reported. The approach may not be as effective in other settings or populations.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

tuberculosis

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

TUBERCULOSIS

Contacts and locations

Locations

Human Sciences Research Council

Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
SolidarMed

Maseru, Lesotho

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