Validation of a Tuberculosis Treatment Decision Algorithm in HIV-infected Children (TB-Speed HIV)

"The PAANTHER algorithm will be used for a TB treatment decision by site clinicians in all children enrolled in the study. The PAANTHER algorithm and prediction score was designed as a guiding tool for empirical TB treatment decision in HIV-infected children with presumptive TB. The proposed score includes:~* history of contact~* suggestive TB symptoms~* tachycardia~* chest radiography~* abdominal ultrasound~* Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra.~A score of \>100 is highly predictive of TB. In children with a score \>100, anti-TB treatment will be initiated immediately. In children with a score of \<100, TB treatment will not be initiated except in those with severe/life-threatening conditions for whom TB treatment decision could be made at the discretion of the site clinician. TB could be definitely ruled out after further assessment and decision made as to what treatment the children should receive in accordance with existing national protocols, along with clinical follow-up."