Understanding individuals in Uganda with trace tuberculosis results
Who are the Ultra-positive, culture-negative? Understanding the trajectories of individuals in Uganda with trace M. tuberculosis nucleic acid in sputum
This study is looking at people in Uganda who have tested positive for tuberculosis (TB) using a special test, even though other tests say they're negative, to find out what these results mean and how to best support them, especially when it comes to community TB screenings.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10900778 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates individuals in Uganda who test positive for tuberculosis (TB) at a trace level using a sensitive diagnostic test but show negative results in traditional cultures. The study aims to determine the significance of these trace-positive results, which may indicate early stages of TB, recent exposure, or even laboratory errors. By analyzing these cases, the research seeks to clarify how to manage individuals with these results, especially in the context of community screening for TB. The approach includes tracking the health trajectories of these individuals to better understand their risk of developing active TB disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals in Uganda who have tested trace-positive for tuberculosis but negative in culture, regardless of symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients who have confirmed active tuberculosis or those who do not meet the trace-positive criteria may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic strategies and management for individuals at risk of developing tuberculosis.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of investigating trace-positive results is relatively novel, similar research has shown promise in improving TB diagnostics and management.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kendall, Emily a — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Kendall, Emily a
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.