We are conducting a study to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and utility of the Tuberculosis-Molecular Bacterial Load Assay (TB-MBLA) for monitoring TB treatment in three HIV clinics in Kampala. We are using a mixed-methods approach to generate supportive evidence for approval of TB-MBLA as a novel TB treatment-monitoring tool. We believe that the findings of this study will inform policy on TB-MBLA clinical use in Uganda. Enablers and barriers for TB-MBLA use will be identified, and remedies to any challenges will be suggested. Uganda has a high coverage of GeneXpert Mtb/RIF technology currently in use for TB care, largely based on the implementation of the hub-spokes model. We are also evaluating the hub-spokes model for TB-MBLA use. Healthcare workers and other key stakeholders will be sensitised to the new assay and its benefits. We believe that positioning TB-MBLA in Uganda’s healthcare system will transform TB treatment monitoring from smear microscopy and culture to a quicker, yet accurate molecular-based tool. The TB-MBLA combines high specificity and sensitivity at both pre- and post-TB treatment stages. The generated evidence shall support quick approval of TB-MBLA as the preferred TB treatment-monitoring tool by the WHO Diagnostics Expert Panel.
Funders: Government of Uganda through Makerere University Research and Innovation Fund
PIs: Drs Emmanuel Musisi and Agness Nandutu Masawi
Status: Ongoing