For over 100 years until rapid molecular TB diagnostic tests came up, smear microscopy was the most common TB test. However, both depend on a patient’s ability to cough sputum — a task children and elderly find difficult. A tongue swab, in contrast, would be easy, though accuracy has been an issue so far.
News
Easy-to-use tongue-swab TB test shows accuracy in India
May 25, 2026For over 100 years until rapid molecular TB diagnostic tests came up, smear microscopy was the most common TB test. However, both depend on a patient’s ability to cough sputum — a task children and elderly find difficult. A tongue swab, in contrast, would be easy, though accuracy has been an issue so far.