A profile on the Truenat assays for the detection of pulmonary tuberculosis and rifampicin resistance

Truenat assays are rapid molecular tests that revolutionized TB diagnosis, moving toward peripheral testing. Evidence indicates that the Truenat MTB Plus performs better than the original Truenat MTB, with an approximate LOD of 30 CFU/ml. The 2025 WHO guidelines rely exclusively on data from Truenat MTB Plus. We need larger studies on the newer Truenat MTB Ultima to evaluate its performance on tongue swabs. Additionally, data on the accuracy of Truenat MTB in children remains scarce, emphasizing the importance of further research in this group. Evidence regarding its accuracy in detecting rifampicin resistance is also limited, requiring larger studies and technological advancements. Truenat MTB will remain crucial in the fight to eliminate TB in the future.