African Health Economics (Medical focus) | 08 March 2000
Xpert-RNA Testing Accuracy in Early Diagnosis of Tuberculosis Among Rural DRC Communities: A Senegalese Meta-Analysis
I, b, r, a, h, i, m, a, N, d, i, a, y, e, ,, A, b, d, o, u, l, a, y, e, M, b, e, n, g, u, e
Abstract
Xpert-RNA testing has emerged as a significant tool for early diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB), particularly in resource-limited settings like rural DRC communities. The study employed a systematic review approach, synthesizing data from nine-month studies conducted in Senegal. Findings indicate that Xpert-RNA testing had a sensitivity of 85% for detecting TB cases among rural DRC communities with a 95% confidence interval (CI). The results suggest that Xpert-RNA can significantly enhance early diagnosis and treatment initiation, potentially reducing TB morbidity and mortality. Health authorities should consider integrating Xpert-RNA testing into routine diagnostic protocols for rural DRC communities to improve TB control efforts. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p<em>i)=\beta</em>0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.