Observational analysis identifies gaps in LF-LAM implementation for TB diagnosis in HIV patients, suggesting training for healthcare workers is essential.
Key Points
Only 48.4% of eligible patients were tested for TB using the LF-LAM test, highlighting a significant gap in diagnosis and patient care.
Among the 605 tested patients, 26.3% tested positive for TB, but only 42% were referred for further testing with GeneXpert.
Qualitative interviews reveal low awareness and poor documentation practices among health workers as barriers to effective TB diagnosis.
Comprehensive training for healthcare workers in Abia State is essential to enhance the utilization of the LF-LAM test and improve documentation.