Under the NTEP policy of Universal Access to TB Diagnosis, what is the recommended initial test for a presumptive pulmonary TB patient?
- A Molecular assay such as CBNAAT or Truenat performed directly on sputum ✓
- B Two sputum smear microscopy examinations
- C Chest radiograph followed by empirical anti-tubercular therapy
- D Sputum culture on Lowenstein-Jensen medium as the first-line test
Correct answer: A. Molecular assay such as CBNAAT or Truenat performed directly on sputum
Explanation
NTEP moved from smear-first to a molecular-test-first approach, offering upfront nucleic acid amplification testing to every presumptive pulmonary TB patient. This provides simultaneous rifampicin resistance detection within hours. Smear microscopy is retained for monitoring treatment response rather than as the initial diagnostic step, which makes option B the tempting but outdated distractor.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.