Researchers at Tulane University (US) have developed a quick test that uses a few drops of blood to detect HIV and tuberculosis (TB). According to Clinical Chemistry, this device can not only detect the two diseases, but also assess viral and bacterial loads.
HIV and tuberculosis are both common infections (co-infections). TB testing is usually done by bacterial culture of sputum, which is time-consuming. Because of immune suppression, sputum is also a product of the immune response, making diagnosis difficult in some patients with HIV.
The rapid test uses mass spectrometry to assess viral and bacterial loads and finds TB and HIV antigens in the blood. The new test requires only 200 microlitres (a few drops) of blood.
The developers state that by combining the two tests, they have saved time and money, and emphasize that simultaneous assessment of p24 and CFP10 results in ILM may allow early detection of TB and HIV and provide valuable information on treatment response, facilitating the integration of TB and HIV diagnosis and treatment.
The developers hope to receive FDA approval soon after moving into clinical trials.