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. 2009 Jan;26(1):3-4.
doi: 10.4103/0970-2113.45196.

Sputum smear microscopy in DOTS: Are three samples necessary? An analysis and its implications in tuberculosis control

Sukhesh Rao  1
Affiliations

Sputum smear microscopy in DOTS: Are three samples necessary? An analysis and its implications in tuberculosis control

Sukhesh Rao. Lung India. 2009 Jan.

Abstract

Objectives: To assess relevance of spot morning spot (SMS) method of smear microscopy in tuberculosis control by directly observed treatment short course (DOTS).

Materials and methods: Screening of smear microscopy results of 546 cases of pulmonary tuberculosis at our DOTS centre.

Results: Among 546 cases, 82% had all three samples positive for AFB, 98% had either morning sample or spot and morning sample positive. 2% had second spot sample positive.

Conclusion: Examination of third sample, especially second spot sample, does not add significantly to the diagnostic yield. Examination of one spot and early morning samples were able to correctly diagnose 98% cases. This has strong implications in DOTS strategies.

Keywords: Acid fast bacilli; DOTS; SMS.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of Interest: None declared.

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