16.2.3  TB classification in HIV-positive patients

Classification of TB for those individuals who are also HIV-positive differs slightly from the classification categories described in Study Session 14. They are all category I patients, but can be further classified into one of three revised sub-categories. This revision was introduced by the WHO in 2009 and you will need to be aware of these revised categories for registration and the follow-up of patients with both diseases. The revised sub-categories are listed below:

• a.Smear-positive pulmonary tuberculosis (one or more sputum smears found to be positive for TB bacteria)
• b.Smear-negative pulmonary tuberculosis
• c.Extra-pulmonary tuberculosis.