Regarding case detection and management under RNTCP/NTEP, all of the following are key performance indicators or strategies EXCEPT:

## Identifying the Incorrect Strategy **Key Point:** While sputum smear microscopy remains an important tool, it is **NOT** the primary diagnostic method for all symptomatic patients under NTEP. The program has shifted toward **rapid molecular diagnostics** (GeneXpert MTB/RIF) as the first-line test, especially for TB/HIV co-infection, MDR-TB suspects, and pediatric TB. ### NTEP Diagnostic Algorithm ```mermaid flowchart TD A[TB Suspect]:::outcome --> B{Clinical Features?}:::decision B -->|Cough ≥2 weeks| C[GeneXpert MTB/RIF]:::action B -->|Immunocompromised/HIV+| D[GeneXpert MTB/RIF]:::action B -->|Simple symptoms| E[Sputum Smear Microscopy]:::action C --> F{Result}:::decision E --> F F -->|Positive| G[Initiate Treatment]:::action F -->|Negative| H[Clinical diagnosis / Further investigation]:::outcome ``` **High-Yield:** NTEP prioritizes **GeneXpert MTB/RIF** (WHO-endorsed rapid molecular test) over microscopy for: - TB/HIV co-infection - Suspected MDR-TB - Pediatric TB - Extrapulmonary TB ### Other Correct Statements | Statement | Status | Rationale | |---|---|---| | CDR target 90% by 2025 | ✓ Correct | NTEP National Strategic Plan target | | TSR ≥85% for new drug-susceptible TB | ✓ Correct | WHO and NTEP performance benchmark | | Treatment initiation within 7 days | ✓ Correct | NTEP guideline for rapid case management | **Clinical Pearl:** Sputum smear microscopy remains valuable in resource-limited settings and for monitoring treatment response, but it is no longer the primary diagnostic tool for initial case detection under NTEP.