Lucknow: The respiratory medicine department at King George's Medical University (KGMU) has commenced 'TrueNat' testing for the diagnosis of tuberculosis under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP). Officials confirmed that the machine, provided with Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) support from ONGC, has been installed at the DOTS centre. This new facility allows TB testing within the department itself, bringing significant relief to patients.
Rapid and Accurate Diagnosis
Officials stated that the TrueNat machine enables rapid and accurate diagnosis, with reports available on the same day. This timely diagnosis helps in the immediate treatment of multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) and severe TB cases. Previously, sputum samples had to be sent to the microbiology department, which handles samples from several districts and operates under a heavy workload.
Benefits for Patients
The introduction of TrueNat testing at the DOTS centre reduces the turnaround time for TB diagnosis, ensuring that patients receive appropriate treatment sooner. This is particularly crucial for MDR-TB cases, where early intervention can significantly improve outcomes.
KGMU Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Sonia Nityanand, congratulated the department on this achievement and emphasized that the facility would greatly benefit patients suffering from TB and drug-resistant TB. She noted that the initiative aligns with the national goal of eliminating tuberculosis by 2025.
The installation of the TrueNat machine is a step forward in strengthening TB diagnostic capabilities at KGMU, reducing the burden on the microbiology department, and enhancing patient care. With same-day results, patients no longer need to wait for days or travel long distances for diagnosis.
