Tuberculosis, caused by infection with Myobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb), is the world’s leading cause of death brought on by a single pathogen.
More than 10 million new cases of TB are diagnosed each year, and almost two million people die from the disease. Globally, 1.7 billion people are estimated to be infected with M.tb.
Researchers have developed a new blood test that can more accurately predict the development of tuberculosis (TB) up to two years before its onset in high-risk patients.
The new test predicts TB particularly in people living with persons having active TB — a condition when the immune system is unable to stop the bacteria from growing. The blood test works by measuring the expression levels of four genes signature in the blood known as “RISK4” — a combination of four genes associated with inflammatory response.
The new test also predicts the development of TB without putting large numbers of lower-risk people through unnecessary preventative treatment. The findings were published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine.
FROM AWARD-WINNING AUTHOR DR GOVIND SHUKLA, NUTRITION EXPERT
Govind Shukla, Specializes in Pharmacology, Toxicology, Nutraceuticals & Herbal Drugs has published More than 100 research papers in National & International Journals. He is also a reviewer of International Journal of Pharmacology & pharmacotherapeutics, Chief editor of IJPNR Journal & Freelance Medical Writer for Different publication Groups including Lambert Academic Publishing Saarbrucken, Germany.
