The World Health Organization has released rapid communication on a new diagnostic technology: "targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS)” for the detection of DRTB.

It can rapidly and accurately predict the genetic analysis and detection of mutations associated with resistance.

The “End to End” test available commercially for the targeted NGS can assimilate new information on the genetic markers for resistance; However, the detection of all categories of DRTB remains a challenge.

WHO's global TB program convened a guideline development meeting to review the available evidence on targeted NGS solutions for detecting DRTB and make recommendations on their clinical use.

This communication gives countries advice on how to handle various changes in diagnosis and enables a smoother programme transition.