Abstract: ObjectiveTo analyze the status of referral and tracing of tuberculosis cases reported on internet by non-TB control facilities in 2005—2008, and to explore measures for improving tuberculosis cases finding. MethodsThe monthly and quarterly reports of TB control from 2005 to 2008 in Guangdong were collected and analyzed. ResultsThe referral arrival rate, tracking arrival rate and overall arrival rate in 2005—2008 was 42.5%, 39.0% and 64.9% respectively. 52.8% of the cases who were reported and transmitted directly through the internet by non-TB control institutions were diagnosed as TB. The referral arrival rates of bacteriological positive cases、bacteriological negative cases and no sputum smear cases reported from internet-based reporting system were 66.9%、58.0%and 37.9% respectively, the diagnosis rates of bacteriological positive cases、bacteriological negative cases and no sputum smear cases traced in place by TB control institutions were 97.6%、79.8% and 43.6% respectively. ConclusionsNon-TB control institutions play an important role in TB case detection. The case detection of pulmonary tuberculosis will be improved by establishment of standard registration, reporting and referral system, which will increase the sputum examination rate of patients reported through internet-based reporting system.

Key words: tuberculosis,pulmonary/prevention & control, referral and consultation, contact tracing, computer communication networks, Guangdong province