Using lung ultrasound and AI to diagnose tuberculosis in low-income countries
Official title: Lung Ultrasound and Artificial Intelligence Technology for the Diagnosis of TB in LMICs
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11035145 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new way to help doctors quickly and accurately diagnose tuberculosis using portable ultrasound machines and smart computer technology, making it easier for patients in low and middle-income countries to get the care they need.
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 start | February 15, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $558,576 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL168261-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11035145 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who exhibit symptoms suggestive of tuberculosis and reside in low and middle-income countries.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not exhibit symptoms of tuberculosis or who are located in high-income countries may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to improve the diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB) in low and middle-income countries by utilizing lung ultrasound (LUS) combined with artificial intelligence (AI) technology. The project focuses on developing point-of-care tests that are portable and affordable, allowing for timely and accurate diagnosis in resource-limited settings. By training AI algorithms on ultrasound images, the goal is to enhance the sensitivity and specificity of TB detection, ultimately helping healthcare providers identify patients who need further evaluation and treatment more efficiently.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to faster and more accurate TB diagnoses, significantly reducing mortality rates in affected populations.
How similar studies have gone: Preliminary studies have shown promising results for lung ultrasound in diagnosing pulmonary tuberculosis, indicating that this approach may be effective, although rigorous studies are still needed.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gilman, Robert H — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Gilman, Robert H
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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.