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Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis in prison inmates, Azerbaijan
G E Pfyffer1, A Strässle, T van Gorkum
1University of Zurich, Switzerland. pfyffer@immv.unizh.ch
Emerging Infectious Diseases
|December 19, 2001
Summary
The Beijing genotype of Mycobacterium tuberculosis is prevalent in an Azerbaijan prison, with over half of isolates showing multidrug resistance. This genotype is strongly associated with drug-resistant tuberculosis strains in this setting.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Genetics
Background:
- Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant global health challenge.
- The Beijing genotype of Mycobacterium tuberculosis is known for its rapid spread and association with drug resistance.
- Understanding the genetic diversity and drug resistance patterns of TB strains in specific populations is crucial for effective control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates from a penitentiary hospital in Azerbaijan.
- To investigate the prevalence of the Beijing genotype within this population.
- To determine the association between the Beijing genotype and multidrug resistance.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 65 Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates using IS6110-based restriction fragment-length polymorphism (RFLP) and spoligotyping.
- Identification of bacterial genotypes and clustering of isolates.
- Assessment of multidrug resistance patterns, including isoniazid and rifampin resistance.
Main Results:
- The Beijing genotype was identified in 31 out of 33 clustered isolates and in a separate group of 15 isolates.
- Multidrug resistance (MDR), involving isoniazid and rifampin, was observed in 52.3% (34/65) of all isolates.
- A significant proportion of multidrug-resistant isolates (28/34) belonged to the Beijing genotype.
Conclusions:
- The Beijing genotype is highly prevalent among Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates in this Azerbaijani penitentiary hospital.
- There is a strong association between the Beijing genotype and multidrug resistance in this TB program.
- These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions against drug-resistant TB strains, particularly those of the Beijing genotype, in correctional facilities.