A new guide for the laboratory technician at the bench has been published by the Global Laboratory Initiative.
Both the World Health Organization and The Union recognise that smear microscopy remains an important tool for the laboratory diagnosis of TB and in monitoring the patients' response to treatment.
Laboratory Diagnosis of TB by Sputum Microscopy: the handbook was developed by the Global Laboratory Initiative as a comprehensive guide for laboratory technicians at the bench. It replaces both the 1998 WHO and 2000 IUATLD guides on smear microscopy and contains many new elements
Countries and organisations that would like to receive copies for internal distribution may submit a request to The Union at documents@theunion.org Reasonable numbers (up to 100) of handbooks may be ordered and will be shipped at no charge; however, the applicant will be required to cover any additional costs, such as customs clearance and internal distribution.
If the number of copies requested exceeds available resources, a printable file can be shared upon request, with the country bearing all printing costs. Some country customisation will then also be possible.
Learn more about the Global Laboratory Initiative.