| OBJECTIVE: A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to compare Microscopic-Observation Drug Sensitivity (MODS), Thin Layer Agar (TLA) and reference standards for sensitivity and specificity for tuberculosis detection and other characteristics. A questionnaire was conducted to evaluate the feasibility, costs and practical aspects of implementation of MODS/TLA.;RESULTS: The overall sensitivity and specificity for MODS were 92% and 97% respectively and for TLA, they were 83% and 98% respectively. Equipment costs and training costs were moderate, costs for materials were low and labour costs were high.;CONCLUSION: MODS and TLA appear to offer simple, inexpensive yet rapid and accurate diagnostic tools for active TB. Overall, costs were moderate to implement MODS/TLA. Important unresolved issues for further investigation include the cost-effectiveness and optimal methods for quality assurance of these TB diagnostic tools.;METHODS: A random effects meta-analysis to estimate the sensitivity and specificity was performed. A self-administered questionnaire was sent to laboratories using MODS/TLA. |
