The World Health Organization (WHO) has released the third edition of its global reference catalogue to help laboratories and healthcare professionals identify genetic mutations linked to drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB), strengthening efforts to improve diagnosis and treatment worldwide.
Published on November 10, 2026, the updated catalogue provides an expanded scientific resource for interpreting genomic changes in Mycobacterium tuberculosis that may indicate resistance to specific medicines. It is expected to support laboratories, researchers, diagnostic developers and public health authorities in making more consistent assessments of drug resistance.
The latest edition draws on findings from more than 71,000 clinical TB samples collected across over 75 countries. Compared with the previous edition, released in 2023, the database has expanded by 37% in sample volume and 12% in geographical coverage.
The revised catalogue also incorporates additional evidence concerning newer and repurposed TB medicines, including pretomanid and cycloserine. Updated statistical and bioinformatic techniques have been introduced to improve the classification of genetic mutations and their association with drug resistance.
WHO has further strengthened its interpretation framework by combining the Graded Mutation List with additional assessment criteria. Practical guidance and frequently asked questions have also been added to help users apply genomic findings more accurately.
Dr Tereza Kasaeva, Director of WHO’s Department for HIV, TB, Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections, highlighted the importance of rapid and reliable drug-resistance detection, particularly as advanced sequencing technologies become more widely accessible.
Drug-resistant tuberculosis remains a serious global health challenge. WHO noted that fewer than half of those affected receive treatment, underlining the need for earlier diagnosis and improved access to appropriate healthcare.
The latest edition builds on WHO’s earlier catalogues published in 2021 and 2023.
