What screening method should be conducted to all presumptive TB patients?

Screening for TB signs and symptoms is the most effective initial step for all presumptive TB patients. This approach involves evaluating individuals for key indicators such as persistent cough, weight loss, fever, and night sweats, which are common symptoms of tuberculosis. Identifying these clinical signs is critical because it allows healthcare providers to determine the likelihood of TB and decide on the appropriate next steps for diagnosis and treatment.

While complete blood count, regular chest radiography, and physical examination can provide valuable information, they do not directly target the specific identification of TB cases as effectively as a focused assessment of signs and symptoms does. For instance, a complete blood count can indicate overall health status or the presence of other infections but is not specific to tuberculosis. Similarly, although chest radiography is an essential tool for confirming TB diagnosis after the initial screening, it is not practical or efficient as a first-line screening method for every presumptive case. Physical examinations, while important for a general assessment, may not provide sufficient information to specifically identify TB. Thus, systematically screening for TB signs and symptoms is paramount in the early detection and management of the disease.