Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 15, 2026

Analysis of 18FDG PET/CT Imaging as a Tool for Studying Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infection and Treatment in Non-human Primates
Published on: September 5, 2017
Advances in tuberculosis 2011-2012.
Heather J Zar1, Zarir F Udwadia
1Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa. heather.zar@uct.ac.za
Global interest in tuberculosis (TB) research is rising, driving advances in diagnostics and treatments for drug-resistant forms. Further research is crucial for better vaccines and shorter regimens to combat TB effectively.
Area of Science:
- * Infectious Diseases
- * Public Health
- * Medical Research
Background:
- * Renewed global focus and funding have accelerated tuberculosis (TB) research and publications.
- * Rising incidence of drug-resistant TB, including multidrug-resistant (MDR) and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) strains, necessitates improved diagnostics and treatments.
- * The co-epidemics of HIV and TB underscore the need for enhanced preventive and treatment strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- * To review recent advances in adult and childhood tuberculosis research.
- * To highlight ongoing research priorities and the need for operational research.
- * To emphasize the development of novel diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines for TB.
Main Methods:
- * Review of recent scientific literature and clinical trial data on tuberculosis.
- * Analysis of progress in diagnostic techniques, therapeutic agents, and preventive strategies.
- * Identification of key research gaps and future directions in TB control.
Main Results:
- * Significant validation of molecular diagnostic techniques in adult TB.
- * Advances in therapeutic strategies, including drug trials for existing and novel agents.
- * Increased understanding of the paediatric TB burden and progress in preventive measures.
Conclusions:
- * Despite advances, critical research priorities remain, including improved diagnostics, biomarkers, and shorter treatment regimens.
- * Development of a safe and effective TB vaccine is a key future goal.
- * Operational research is essential for translating research findings into widespread clinical practice and optimal patient benefit.
Related Concept Videos
Pulmonary Tuberculosis IV
Several diagnostic approaches are used to detect TB. The conventional method is the Tuberculin Skin Test (TST), also known as the Mantoux test. However, this method has...
Pulmonary Tuberculosis III
The first classification is based on the development of the disease, and it includes the following categories:
Pulmonary Tuberculosis V
Latent tuberculosis infection occurs when TB bacteria are present in a person's body, but are not causing illness or symptoms. It is not contagious, and preventive treatment is crucial to avoid the progression...
Pulmonary Tuberculosis II
Here is a detailed explanation of its pathophysiology:
Transmission: The process begins when a person inhales droplet nuclei containing M. tuberculosis. These are typically released into the air when an individual with pulmonary or...
Pulmonary Tuberculosis I
Causative Organism
The primary infectious agent causing tuberculosis is Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a slow-growing, acid-fast, aerobic rod that exhibits sensitivity to heat and ultraviolet light. Instances of Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium avium contributing to the development of TB infection are rare.
Mode of...
Transmission-based Precautions II: Airborne and Protective Environment
Airborne precautions:
Use airborne precautions when treating patients known or suspected to have diseases that spread through the air—for example, tuberculosis or measles. These organisms are present in smaller droplets expelled by an infected person and...
