Saliva Test Shows Promise for Easier Tuberculosis Detection

A new study by researchers at the Yale School of Public Health suggests that tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis could become simpler and more accessible through saliva-based testing. Conducted in collaboration with partners in Colombia, the research explored whether saliva could serve as a reliable alternative to sputum, the current standard sample that many patients struggle to provide.

The study, carried out in Cali with support from CIDEIM at Icesi University, involved participants undergoing evaluation for TB. Researchers compared saliva, sputum, and oral swab samples using established molecular testing methods.

Among 190 participants, including confirmed TB and non-TB cases, saliva testing demonstrated strong accuracy, with over 90% sensitivity and high specificity. This indicates it can correctly identify most infections while minimizing false positives.

Although oral swabs showed lower detection rates, the findings highlight saliva as a practical and effective diagnostic tool, potentially improving global TB testing access, especially in resource-limited settings.

23-03-2026