Fogarty Fellow: Anna Stadelman
Anna Stadelman, MPH, PhD(c)
Nominated From: University of Minnesota
Research Site: Makerere University
Research Area: Infectious Disease, Data Science
Primary Mentor: David Boulware
Fogarty Fellow Bio: NPGH Page
Research Project
Developing and Validating a Diagnostic Algorithm for Tuberculosis Meningitis
Improving diagnostics for tuberculosis meningitis using machine learning techniques and external validation in hospitals in Uganda
Research Significance
There is currently no “gold standard” for diagnosing tuberculosis meningitis (TBM) because current microbiologic methods lack the sensitivity and specificity to reliably detect cases. As a result only 10% of TBM cases are diagnosed within a week. By utilizing machine learning methods we can develop a diagnostic algorithm for TBM based on clinical data collected within the first 48 hours of patient presentation. In the second study, we seek to externally validate the clinical scoring system based on the diagnostic algorithm in hospitals in Uganda.
Advice for Potential Candidates
I would recommend that potential candidates seek out strong mentors and develop relationships with them. I would also recommend that potential candidates look for support from their peers as well – they are a wealth of knowledge and are looking for opportunities to demonstrate it. It’s a great opportunity to form collaborations!