Stellenbosch University leads Al-powered TB ulrasound tech

IN A significant leap forward in the battle against tuberculosis (TB), Stellenbosch University (SU) researchers are spearheading a pivotal global trial aimed at revolutionising TB diagnosis through the innovative use of artificial intelligence (AI).

- WEEKEND ARGUS REPORTER

The project seeks to create and validate an algorithm designed to empower healthcare workers at primary care facilities to identify potential TB cases swiftly and accurately, utilising a handheld ultrasound device that connects to a smartphone.

“TB remains the world’s deadliest infectious disease, yet it is massively underdiagnosed,” explained Prof Grant Theron, a leading expert in Clinical Mycobacteriology and Epidemiology at SU and the trial coordinator. He said the critical challenges faced in diagnosing TB, where many patients undergo unnecessary testing, while others who desperately require screening are overlooked.

“There's an urgent need for accessible, affordable, and scalable diagnostic tools for TB triage,” he asserts.