Researchers from Stellenbosch University are coordinating an international project to improve early diagnosis of tuberculous meningitis in children. The PRECISE-TBM initiative involves experts from Africa and Europe.
Researchers from Stellenbosch University are coordinating a large international research project aimed at improving earlier diagnosis of tuberculous meningitis in children. Experts say the disease poses a serious threat in countries with a high tuberculosis burden and limited specialised healthcare.
The PRECISE-TBM initiative brings together experts from Africa and Europe to develop faster and simpler diagnostic tests to use in primary healthcare facilities.
Professor Novel Chegou, the project’s co-ordinator, says the tools under development use simple technology that requires no high technical expertise. He notes the tests can be performed even at home and will yield results within no more than 15 minutes.
Chegou adds that the current approach involves expensive scans and laboratory techniques that take a long time and many visits. He hopes the project will change how TB meningitis is managed in high-burden settings in Africa and Asia if successful.
