How to screen for new tuberculosis

Tuberculosis screening for newborns primarily involves a comprehensive assessment of infection risk through methods such as tuberculin skin testing, chest imaging, sputum pathogen testing, blood tests for inflammatory markers, and investigation of exposure history. If screening results are abnormal or there is a history of close contact with tuberculosis patients, timely medical consultation is recommended for further diagnosis.

1. Tuberculin skin test: This test involves intradermal injection of tuberculin to observe the skin reaction at the injection site, determining whether the infant has been infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It is a fundamental, simple, and widely used method in newborn tuberculosis screening.

2. Chest imaging: Chest digital radiography (DR) or CT scans are used to detect the presence of tuberculous lesions in the lungs. These imaging techniques provide a direct view of lung infections and help identify active tuberculosis.

3. Sputum pathogen testing: Newborn sputum or respiratory secretions are collected and examined via smear microscopy and culture to detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This serves as a key diagnostic criterion for confirming tuberculosis infection, offering high accuracy.

4. Blood tests for inflammatory markers: Tests including white blood cell count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels help assess inflammation. Elevated inflammatory markers, combined with other screening results, can assist in evaluating the presence and severity of infection.

5. Exposure history assessment: A detailed inquiry into family history of tuberculosis or close contact with infected individuals, along with the newborn’s birth environment and living conditions, helps assess infection risk and provides critical context for interpreting screening results.

Prior to and after screening, ensure the newborn's environment is well-ventilated, avoid contact with individuals who have respiratory infections, provide proper feeding to strengthen immunity, and closely monitor the injection or examination sites post-screening. Maintain cleanliness to prevent secondary infection, and follow standardized procedures to complete the entire screening process.