The meeting was held from 26 to 27 March 2018 to review and discuss the following topics: Advances and challenges in the use of fTLC, and new approaches to detecting mycolactone using monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). The status of development of rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) targeting the MUL_3720 protein. The role of PCR as a reference test, and hurdles in providing a confirmatory diagnosis and in establishing a quality assurance programme. New molecular tools with potential for implementation at a level lower than in the national or regional reference laboratory, such as loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) and recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA). The need to harmonize and standardize methods for collection and preparation of specimens, so samples can be referred for diagnosis and stored for evaluation of new diagnostic tests in optimal conditions. Barriers to accessing early diagnosis and treatment, including coordination at the programme level, and lack of adequate diagnostic tools. Defining target product profiles (TPPs) to guide the development of new diagnostic tools that can be applied at different levels of the health system. Participants agreed that two TPPs would be developed to address the current gaps: (i) a rapid test for BU diagnosis at the primary health-care level; and (ii) a test for diagnosis of BU that can also assist in treatment monitoring and differential diagnosis at the district hospital or reference centre.