Evaluation of serological tests for the diagnosis of tuberculosis

To evaluate the use of antibody detection kits in the diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis in an endemic area, serum samples from cases (sputum smear positive for AFB) and controls (healthy young adults) were collected and tested using five different kits. Sensitivity, specificity and predictive values were calculated using smear positivity as gold standard. Sensitivity of tests varied from 46% to 68% and the specificity from 68% to 100%. None of the kits evaluated can be used as a single screening test for tuberculosis. However kits with good specificity may be used in conjunction with conventional methods for diagnosis.