IMPORTANCE OF SEROLOGICAL DIAGNOSIS (ELISA) IN PEDIATRIC PULMONARY TUBERCULOSIS

Abstract

Introduction: Pulmonary tuberculosis, caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, poses a significant global public health challenge. Diagnosing tuberculosis in children is particularly difficult due to less evident symptoms and challenges in obtaining suitable samples for traditional diagnostic tests. Common methods, such as the tuberculin skin test (PPD) and chest X-rays, often face limitations, especially in young children and in detecting atypical forms of the disease. Methodology: This study will conduct a systematic review aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of the ELISA test in diagnosing pediatric pulmonary tuberculosis, based on recent studies. The review will include analyses of articles published in 2016 and 2024 to ensure the inclusion of the most up-to-date information on the topic. Conclusion: The research highlights the practical relevance of the ELISA test and suggests areas for future investigation, emphasizing the need for more studies to enhance tuberculosis diagnosis in children.