[Nosocomial pulmonary tuberculosis]

The impact of nosocomial tuberculosis remains poorly known. There is a real risk that is relatively higher when the probability of community acquisition declines. Diagnosis is difficult due to the natural history of tuberculosis infection so that most cases of nosocomial contamination result in infection without disease expression. The nosocomial origin is rarely recognized. Though diagnosis is difficult, prevention is well described: early diagnosis of tuberculosis disease and treatment as well as respiratory isolation in case of suspected tuberculous bacilli. Particular care is required in units managing immunodepressed patients where the risk of contamination and development of overt tuberculosis is greater.