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Management of tuberculosis in children and new treatment options

B J Marais1, H S Schaaf, P R Donald

  • 1Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa. bjmarais@sun.ac.za

Infectious Disorders Drug Targets
|March 17, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Childhood tuberculosis (TB) remains neglected in resource-limited settings, despite children comprising a significant disease burden. Advances in guidelines and drug formulations highlight persistent programmatic challenges in pediatric TB management.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Childhood tuberculosis (TB) is a neglected global health issue, particularly in resource-limited areas.
  • National TB control programs often prioritize adult, smear-positive cases, overlooking pediatric TB's significant burden and severe outcomes.
  • Growing recognition of childhood TB's impact necessitates improved management strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current treatment practices for childhood tuberculosis.
  • To discuss challenges and offer perspectives on pediatric TB management in resource-limited settings.
  • To provide a synopsis of potential future treatment options for childhood TB.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of current childhood tuberculosis treatment practices.
  • Analysis of programmatic barriers in resource-limited settings.
  • Inclusion of author perspectives on pediatric TB management.
  • Synopsis of emerging treatment strategies.

Main Results:

  • Childhood TB is under-resourced and under-prioritized globally.
  • The World Health Organization (WHO) released pediatric TB guidelines in 2006.
  • Child-friendly drug formulations are available via the Global Drug Facility (GDF) since 2008.
  • Significant programmatic barriers impede effective childhood TB treatment.

Conclusions:

  • Childhood TB requires focused attention and resources.
  • Despite advances, substantial challenges remain in implementing pediatric TB control.
  • Future treatment options may offer improved outcomes for children with TB.

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