Sputum induction and near-patient GeneXpert to reduce diagnostic delay
We are conducting research to determine the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of offering sputum induction (using nebulised hypertonic saline) and point-of-care GeneXpert (Xpert) sputum testing in TB clinics at Barts Health NHS Trust for the diagnosis of pulmonary TB (PTB) in children and adults. These innovations have potential to significantly reduce diagnostic delays for patients being investigated for PTB and to reduce the need for bronchoscopy – an invasive and traumatic investigation. We are using recent historical and prospective data from patients with suspected PTB to determine the impact of implementing these service innovations on diagnostic delay, requirement for bronchoscopy, patient acceptability and costs.