Comprehensive interpretation of the Classification of tuberculosis (WS 196-2017)

In order to meet the needs of the current tuberculosis prevention and control work in China,the National Health and Family Planning Commission (NHFPC) released the health industry standard for the Classification of tuberculosis (WS 196-2017) on November 9, 2017. The new classification standards are based on the etiology, epidemiological characteristics, clinical manifestations, laboratory tests and differential diagnosis of tuberculosis. Amendments mainly focus on active TB, and it is in line with the characteristics of the change and development of tuberculosis. The trachea and bronchial tuberculosis and tuberculous pleurisy are incorporated into pulmonary tuberculosis. And the molecular and bacteriological examination result are defined as pathogenic examination. At the same time, the results of drug susceptibility test are included in the active tuberculosis classification. This standard also cover Mycobacterium tuberculosis latent infection and inactive pulmonary tuberculosis. The clear definition of the two groups are more conducive to the key prevention and control of tuberculosis. Increasing the drug resistance classification is beneficial to understand the status of drug-resistant tuberculosis and to evaluate the epidemic status of drug-resistant tuberculosis scientifically and objectively. The Classification of tuberculosis (WS 196-2017) will provide a strong technical support for the realization of the goal of ending tuberculosis prevention and control in China in 2035.