%0 Journal Article
%T Sputum smear microscopy in DOTS: Are three samples necessary? An analysis and its implications in tuberculosis control
%A Rao Sukhesh
%J Lung India
%D 2009
%I Medknow Publications
%X Objectives: To assess relevance of spot morning spot (SMS) method of smear microscopy in tuberculosis control by directly observed treatment short course (DOTS). Materials and Methods : Screening of smear microscopy results of 546 cases of pulmonary tuberculosis at our DOTS centre. Results: Among 546 cases, 82% had all three samples positive for AFB, 98% had either morning sample or spot and morning sample positive. 2% had second spot sample positive. Conclusion: Examination of third sample, especially second spot sample, does not add significantly to the diagnostic yield. Examination of one spot and early morning samples were able to correctly diagnose 98% cases. This has strong implications in DOTS strategies.
%K Acid fast bacilli
%K DOTS
%K SMS
%U http://www.lungindia.com/article.asp?issn=0970-2113;year=2009;volume=26;issue=1;spage=3;epage=4;aulast=Rao