The World Health Organization (WHO)’s Global TB Programme has revised the definition of extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB).Pre-XDR-TB has also been defined for the first time.The move emphasizes the significance of these forms of TB.

New definitions for these forms of TB will assist with the precise characterization ofdifferent groups of patients with TB in need of complex treatment regimens. They may also help withimproved reporting, surveillance as well as monitoring of drug-resistant TB in countries across the world. The new definitions are also expected toencourage the development of better treatment approaches for these dangerous forms of TB… (WHO, January 27, 2021)